Surf Life Saving Queensland Magazine Located on the southern part of Moreton Bay on an island accessible only by ferry, Coochiemudlo SLSC shines as a symbol of unity and close-knit camaraderie. We had the pleasure of chatting with Des Kerr, the Club President of Coochiemudlo SLSC, who graciously shared the rich history of the club and the profound significance of belonging to the surf lifesaving community. MEMBERS FAR AND WIDE Coochiemudlo Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) boasts a membership that extends well beyond the shores of its island home. While the club has several families who reside on the island, some who are founding members and proudly are a part of the club. Every Sunday sees a surge in numbers as families from neighbouring areas eagerly journey across tranquil waters to join in. This diverse mix of backgrounds, ages, and experiences converges with a shared love for the sea and a common goal of fostering positivity and safety. “It’s this sense of unity and belonging that makes our club truly special, as we come together for the kids, and the community.”
RESILIENT BEGINNINGS FROM 2001 The history of the Coochiemudlo Surf Life Saving Club is a tale of resilience, community, and dedication to coastal safety. Born in the 2001-2002 season, the humble beginnings set the stage for a remarkable journey of growth and transformation. “In those early days, with only around 15 patrolling members, we embarked on our mission to protect beachgoers and promote water safety along the shores of Coochiemudlo Island. Despite our modest numbers, our commitment to service was unwavering.” Unlike traditional beachside clubs, Coochiemudlo’s headquarters did not grace the sandy shores but instead found its home in a sturdy big blue facility shed set back from the beach. This modest structure, erected in 2007 through the combined efforts of dedicated volunteers and grants, served as the heart of operations. Over time, it evolved into a bustling hub of activity, complete with a kitchen, mezzanine, and training room, embodying the spirit of progress and innovation that defines the club. “We take great pride in the strides we’ve made as a young Club and the obstacles we’ve overcome. Every patrol, rescue and development tells a story in our Club’s history — evidence of our strong sense of community and service at Coochiemudlo Surf Life Saving Club.”
COMMUNITY THAT SPANS GENERATIONS “There’s a deep-rooted sense of community within our Club that spans generations. It’s amazing to see families who have been part of our journey since the beginning, passing down the tradition of lifesaving from one generation to the next.” “We’re fortunate to have multiple families actively involved in patrolling and contributing to the Club’s mission. Their dedication and commitment, spanning over 15-20 years of service, serve as a testament to the strong bonds and shared values that define our close-knit community.”
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