EDUCATION

Becoming a surf lifesaver is satisfying, fun and rewarding. Surf lifesavers undertake a number of roles including aquatic rescues, providing first aid and emergency care and providing surf safety information to the public. There are many ways in which you can get involved as a Surf Life Saving volunteer. Surf Life Saving has opportunities for people to be an active patrol member saving lives on the beach, an age manager for Nippers on the weekend or as a volunteer club official working behind the scenes to ensure things run smoothly. Many of these responsibilities require certified training and provide nationally recognised certifications upon completion.  

Main Pathways in Surf Life Saving

Bronze Medallion

The Bronze Medallion course provides participants with the skills and knowledge in order to be able to participate in Surf Life Saving patrol operations. This is the core award to be a surf lifesaver in Australia.

This course teaches members to Prepare for and respond to a rescue with appropriate rescue and personal protective equipment, participate in assessing a rescue scene and safely perform a rescue using appropriate equipment and rescue techniques while following Surf Life Saving procedures.

Surf Rescue Certificate

The Surf Rescue Certificate is a stepping stone to the full Bronze Medallion that is generally the minimum standard required for full patrolling duties. The Surf Rescue Certificate was originally intended for young people aged between 13 and 15 years, however, anyone over the age of 13 can qualify at this level.

The Surf Rescue Certificate is the minimum standard required for water safety at Nippers and similar events. 

Further Awards for Members

  • First Aid / Advanced First Aid
  • Advanced Resuscitation Techniques
  • IRB Crewperson’s Certificate
  • SSV Operator
  • Silver Medallion: IRB Driver
  • Silver Medallion: Beach Management
  • Silver Medallion: Aquatic Rescue

Other Roles & Certifications

  • Water Safety Personnel
  • Age Manager (Nippers)
  • Surf Sport Coach
  • Surf Sport Official
  • Training Officer, Assessor, Facilitator

Register for Courses

    Bronze Medallion

    Pre-Requisites minimum age 15 years. Ability to swim 400 metres of freestyle within 9 minutes

    Surf Rescue Certificate

    Suitable for parents wishing to help with water safety at Nippers. Pre-Requisites minimum age 13 years. Ability to swim 200 metres of freestyle within 5 minutes.

    IRB Crew Certificate

    Pre-Requisites minimum age 15 years, and proficient Bronze Medallion

    Silver Medallion Beach Management

    Pre-Requisites minimum age 17 years, hold a Bronze Medallion and be proficient in at least one of the following: Bronze, First Aid, ART or Radio