Bundaberg junior surf lifesavers are continuing to build upon their knowledge in areas including CPR, first aid and resuscitation by taking their skills to the competition arena.
Coach at Bundaberg Surf Life Saving Club Natalie Pascoe said local juniors recently came away with some great results when they took part in the State Surf Rescue championships.
She said the competition, which was held at Nielson Park Beach last month, was what being a lifesaver was all about.
“It covers all aspects of life saving including CPR, resuscitation, first aid teams, patrol teams, theory and physical,” she said.
“The surf lifesavers are faced with scenarios where they have to treat and assess patients, perform water rescues and do CPR if required,” she said.
“These are the type of lifesavers we want on our beach.”
Natalie said 13 competitors ranging from Under 14s to Masters took part in the event and showcased some exceptional skills.
“Bundaberg as a club held their heads high and did their club proud,” she said.
“We had two U15s receive gold and silver for Champion Lifesaver, an U19 take silver and an U35-40 take gold.
“Our U15 Champion Patrol Team beat a field of eight to take out gold.
“They are the first U15 team in the history of the Bundaberg club to do so and received the Peter White Memorial trophy for their outstanding efforts.”
Natalie said Under 14s Finn Heads and Gabi Vaggs, Under 19s Ashlie Swan, Elena Tyers and Jasmine Therakauf and Opens Martin Cole and Carolyn Nydam have also been stand out competitors recently.
Life saving skills transfer from the surf and sand to daily life
Natalie said it was events like State Surf Rescue that helped junior surf lifesavers in and out of the water.
“We live on the coast so learning how to navigate the surf and how to be safe in the water and understand rips is so important,” she said.
“But it's not just about the ocean, these skills that life savers acquire can help in normal life as well.
“A few of the kids in my team have done first aid outside of life saving, including one girl helped her boss who was bitten by a dog and another young boy helped a fellow student when they dislocated their shoulder.
“Surf lifesaving is also about volunteering and teamwork.”
