Four members awarded SLSSA Life Membership

Surf Life Saving SA was proud to award Life Membership to Chris Parsons, Kylie Ellison, Ron Harwood and Raelene Donnell at the 2024 Awards of Excellence.

To find out more about the 2024 Awards of Excellence winners, click here.

To find out more about the 2024 Hall of Fame inductees, click here.

Raelene Donnell - Semaphore SLSC

Raelene a selfless and compassionate surf lifesaver who boasts an incredible 59-year career. First joining Semaphore Surf Life Saving Club in 1965, she’s celebrated key milestones in surf lifesaving history, from the introduction of Nippers in the late 60s to the official recognition of female surf life saver in the 1980s.

She is a fixture at every event on the sporting calendar, not only officiating on the beach but tirelessly working behind-the-scenes at Surf Central each week to prepare for upcoming competitions and ensure smooth operations. Whether it’s sorting medals, organising uniform packs, preparing paperwork or washing officials vests, she does it all without a complaint.

While her contributions extend across various areas of surf lifesaving, her true passion lies in Rescue and Resuscitation. She has dedicated countless hours to coaching, education, and support, not only for Semaphore's youth but also for neighbouring clubs. Her expertise has led her to officiate at club, state, and national levels, earning recognition such as the prestigious Bob Woodger Trophy for Aussies R&R Official of the Year in 2011.

Finally, proving that it’s never too late to don the red and yellow, she also completed her first patrol at 72 years old in 2022.

Raelene has found every opportunity to grow our movement and pave the way for women and future generations of surf life savers. She is a role model, she is the first female president at Semaphore, she is a surf lifesaving superwoman.

Chris Parsons - Brighton SLSC

Chris is a highly dedicated, accomplished and long-service member of Brighton Surf Life Saving Club and the State Emergency Operations Group.

The red and yellow runs thick in his veins, having obtained a wealth of qualifications since joining the movement 33 years ago as a nipper.

While currently most renowned for his role as Crew Chief with the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter service, Chris have also played a key role in the Jet Rescue Boat, Jet Ski and Inflatable Rescue Boat service. First obtaining his bronze medallion in 1995, Chris has since accumulated over 4000 patrol hours and 900 flying hours.

Chris has held many positions at Brighton SLSC, including President, Vice President, Patrol Captain, Security manager, IT Manager, Bar Manager amongst many others.

He has received various accolades, including the 2015 South Australian Emergency Service Medal, 2016 National Medal, and 2022 SLSA Meritorious Award. In addition, he has obtained his Gold Medallion – the highest award in Surf Life Saving.

His impact is felt strongly across the broader South Australian community, having served on the Lifesaving Advisory Committee for seven years while being involved in community outreach, school landings, fundraisers, shows, and the iconic Brighton Jetty Classic.

Kylie Ellison - Semaphore SLSC, Brighton SLSC

Kylie has been a respected and highly dependable member at Semaphore Surf Life Saving Club since 1997 and Brighton Surf Life Saving Club since 2014. Her dedication is exemplified by over 4000 patrol hours.

For nearly a quarter-century, she has been an integral part of the State Emergency Operations Group, making significant contributions to the Jet Rescue Boat service and serving as a Duty Officer. She’s also excelled as a trainer and assessor in various areas such as Bronze and ARTC, while facilitating SMAR courses and aiding in Jet Boat training.

Her involvement extends to surf sports at state and national levels, having previously served as a carnival safety officer, Powercraft Coordinator at the Australian Surf Lifesaving Championships, and an official at the Australian IRB Championships. Notably, she even held the role of medical Coordinator at the 2018 World Lifesaving Championships.

But of course, Kylie doesn’t like missing a second of the action, and also spent many years competing with the Brighton IRB racing crew.

Her unwavering passion, enthusiasm and versatility in service duties are the hallmarks of a remarkable surf lifesaver, which is why it’s no surprise she is a three-time SLSSA Awards of Excellence winner, previously being named Assessor of the Year in 2006, Surf Life Saver of the Year in 2013, and Volunteer of the Year in 2019. Her contributions have also received national recognition with awards like the National Service Medal in 2015, 20-Year National Patrol Service award in 2018, and South Australian Emergency Services Medal in 2020.

Ronald Harwood - Christies Beach SLSC, Somerton SLSC

Ron joined the movement in 1967 and today celebrates a 56-year membership spanning across Semaphore, South Port, North Haven, Henley, Somerton, and most notably, Christies Beach.

In Surf Sports he has excelled as a Surf Boat Sweep, nurturing talent and guiding multiple clubs to success through coaching and sweep development. He’s represented South Australia and Surf Life Saving Australia on numerous occasions, most notably winning Gold in the 2017 Reserve Women’s ASRL and 120yrs Open Women’s races. He’s also claimed over 20 SA State Championship medals as the sweep of several Junior, Open and Masters male and female crews between 1970 and 2023.

In addition to his many surf sport accolades, Ron holds 38 awards, including a 15 Year Patrol Service Award and a 25 Year Long Service Award. At state level he’s held several important administrative positions, including state council, board member, chairperson and club president. He was also instrumental in the rebuild of Christies Beach Surf Life Saving Club, working tirelessly to create the foundations of the Mid Coast Surf Life Saving Clubs Group for the development, stability and financial benefit of the five surf clubs within the City of Onkaparinga.

Three members inducted into SLSSA Hall of Fame

Surf Life Saving SA was proud to induct Robert Thompson, Andrew Lanyon and John Charles into the SLSSA Hall of Fame at the 2024 Awards of Excellence.

To find out more about the 2024 Awards of Excellence winners, click here.

To find out more about the 2024 Life Membership recipients, click here.

Robert Thompson - Grange SLSC

Hall of Fame - Sport

Robert has been a beloved athlete and official in surf lifesaving since first joining Grange Surf Life Saving Club in 1968.

As an athlete, Robert was a fierce all-round competitor who showcased exceptional talent in board riding, board and ski, before moving into surf boats. He’s proudly represented South Australia on many occasions, and competed well into his 50s.

Outside the competition, his involvement has been equally remarkable. There aren’t many roles Robert hasn’t done, whether it’s coach, team manager, official, area referee, announcer, or committee member across junior, senior and masters events. Their commitment to developing youth athletes is especially highlighted through their previous roles as State Junior Development Squad Manager, Junior Team State Selector and Junior State Team Coach.

On a national and global scale his presence is well-known, having officiated at the Australian Championships for the past 17 years and served as a starter at Open, Masters, and International Championships in Adelaide, France, and the Netherlands from 2012 to 2018.

Robert has also made waves outside the sporting world, having achieved their 30-year national patrol award and also serving 12 years as Club President, during which time he played a pivotal role in the redevelopment of the Grange clubrooms.

In 2012 he was honoured with Life Membership of SLSSA, and in 2018 he was inducted into the Surf Sports Hall of Fame along with other members of his Grange Boat Crew. Now in 2024, Surf Life Saving SA is thrilled to induct Robert into the Surf Life Saving SA Hall of Fame.

Andrew Lanyon - Henley SLSC

Hall of Fame - Sport

Andrew has been a prominent figure at Henley Surf Life Saving Club since gaining his Bronze as a 16-year-old in 1973.

Entering the surf lifesaving world with a competitive swimming background, he quickly established themselves as a standout athlete. Alongside fellow members Rob and Peter Mackay, Tony Snell and Neville Fielder, he propelled Henley into prominence in swimming, R&R and later Ironman events.

Determined to expand his surf skills, he concentrated on learning and refining his craft in skis and boards, eventually being appointed Board and Ski Captain in 1977. Over a decade of coaching, his innovative training methods and dedication significantly bolstered Henley’s standing in this area, leading to over 25 years of service at Board Captain.

His illustrious career is adorned with countless individual and team victories across state, national and international competitions, from gold medals at State Titles in the early 1980s to multiple golds in team events at the 2016, 2018, and 2022 World Championships.

In a true testament to his enduring excellence, he also won the Club Championship ten times in a 14-year span between 1977 and 1991.

Equally committed to his lifesaving responsibilities, Andrew obtained his Instructor's Certificate in 1984 and was honoured with a 20-Year National Patrol Service Award in 2001. He was a patrol captain for more than 10 years and took part in several recues, including incidences off duty outside of Henley Beach.

John Charles - South Port SLSC

Hall of Fame - Lifesaving

John is an outstanding lifesaver with a distinguished career spanning nearly five decades since joining the movement as a seven-year-old in 1975.

John has impressively logged over 1100 volunteer patrol hours across Port Noarlunga, South Port, Moana and the State Emergency Operations group, which he has been a diligent member of for 37 years. Beginning as a trainee crew member in the Jest Rescue Boat service in 1987, he progressed through the ranks to become an instructor, assessor, state officer and core member in the 24-hour call team. 

As the longest-serving Powercraft Officer, John has left a lasting legacy across lifesaving operations and surf sports.

His leadership abilities were quickly recognized when he was elected as the State IRB Officer from 1991-1993, taking on the massive responsibility of setting up all senior and junior carnivals. To date, he has has set up the cans at countless summer carnivals and around 30 State Championships.

Furthermore, his dedication to IRB racing has been marked not just by numerous victories, but by his knowledge and advice which helped shape, innovate and develop the sport during its infancy.

John’s impact is felt nationally, having been instrumental in the development and review of various National Power Craft training manuals and programs which have been utilized by both Queensland and New South Wales Jet Boat Rescue Operations. He also collaborated on the design of SA’s current Jet Rescue Boats, and have trained and assessed over 10 JRB drivers and 30 crew members.

2024 SLSSA Awards of Excellence Winners

Surf Life Saving SA congratulates all award winners honoured at the 2024 Awards of Excellence.

Their incredible contributions, commitment and passion this season across a wide range of areas epitomise the core values and mission of Surf Life Saving. We look forward to continuing this valuable work in 2024/25.

To find out more about the 2024 Hall of Fame inductees, click here.

To find out more about the 2024 Life Membership recipients, click here.

Club of the Year – Glenelg Surf Life Saving Club

Finalists: Aldinga Bay SLSC, Normanville SLSC, Seacliff SLSC

Glenelg Surf Life Saving Club stands as a beacon of excellence across every aspect of surf lifesaving.

The club has safeguarded tens of thousands of beachgoers this season, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to community safety. Their growth is evident, with a 5% increase in patrolling members and a 10% rise in social memberships reflecting their expanding influence and promotion of surf lifesaving.

Glenelg has passionately nurtured the next generation of surf lifesavers, achieving 100% nipper retention over the past three years, with the entire cohort going on to achieve their Surf Rescue Certificate and Bronze Medallion.

Mental well-being has also been paramount, with the club prioritising mental health through a range of proactive initiatives such as member courses and fundraising events like the 24-hour row dedicated to mental health awareness.

Their dedication to fostering a culture of leadership is equally notable, with members engaging in state and national leadership programs, alongside the club’s own member courses. By investing in their future leaders, they’ve also seen five U23 members join the operational committee.

In surf sports, Glenelg’s dominance is undeniable. From clinching gold for Australia with the Glenelg Grenades, to securing numerous medals at state and national championships, to hosting South Australia’s inaugural Summer of Surf event, they’ve proven themselves as not just competitors but leaders in surf sports.

Crucially, Glenelg have demonstrated great responsibility with supporting the wider community, providing surf education to thousands of South Australian students as well as international university students. They continue to exemplify compassion and accessibility for all through organizing events for displaced Ukrainian families, spearheading initiatives like clothing drives for Syrian children, and piloting the Silver Salties program. Consideration for the environment has also been prioritised with initiatives like placing bins on patrol.

Their extraordinary efforts and impact have not gone unnoticed. They exemplify values of inclusivity, sustainability, and community engagement, making them the deserving recipient of the 2024 South Australian Surf Life Saving Club of the Year award.

 Surf Life Saver of the Year – Hayley Hosking (Seacliff SLSC)

Finalists: Dave Lucas (Brighton SLSC), Will Piper-Bamber (Chiton Rocks SLSC), Daniel Scadden (Aldinga Bay SLSC), Cassie Wilmot (Goolwa SLSC)

Hayley is an exceptional lifesaver and valuable ambassador who embodies the spirit of volunteering and Surf Life Saving.

Since joining as a Nipper at age five, Hayley has been a committed and dependable member of Seacliff. Now the club Vice Captain, Hayley coordinates 237 patrolling members and is responsible for Seacliff's lifesaving operations.

At just 22 years old, Hayley holds over 10 surf lifesaving awards and is an integral part of the Emergency Operations Group, patrolling on the JRB and as an RWC operation. Incredibly this season, she completed over 400 patrol hours, delivered numerous training courses, and coordinated members and equipment for over a dozen carnivals and local events. She also helped pioneer the inaugural Women in Powercraft Training program, which saw girls aged 15 – 16 obtain their IRB crew award.

Throughout her duties, Hayley strives to champion inclusivity and acceptance, often organising special patrol days to raise awareness of crucial community issues and ensure all members feel supported and engaged. Initiatives such as Blue Patrol for men’s health awareness, Pink Patrol for International Women’s Day, and Rainbow Beach day for LGBQIA+ inclusivity, showcase her commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for all.

Hayley demonstrates an exceptional ability to make connections and inspire others to give back and make positive change. As a role model for young women, and in fact all members, Hayley's legacy is certainly one of exemplary service and leadership.

Volunteer of the Year – David Jansen (Normanville SLSC)

Finalists: Shayan Gunawardena (West Beach SLSC), Bella Jose (Glenelg SLSC), Paul Rothwell (Christies Beach SLSC), Cassie Wilmot (Goolwa SLSC)

Dave’s commitment to surf lifesaving is rooted in over four decades of unwavering dedication and service, stemming from his early days as a nipper at Seacliff Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) in 1983 through to his current role as President of Normanville Surf Life Saving Club.

In the past 18 months, Dave has been pivotal in transforming the club into a thriving community hub and beacon of safety along the Fleurieu coastline. His hands-on approach guided every stage of the club's reconstruction, always ensuring alignment with both club needs and community interests.

In addition to his presidential duties, Dave took on the roles of Age Group Manager and Patrol Captain this season, leading his team to receive the prestigious title of Club Champion Patrol Team. Dave also completely revitalised the club’s surf boat presence, managing to help form three competitive surf boat crews, including the club’s first ever female crew.

And for the cherry on top of an exceptional season, Dave managed to clinch gold medals in individual and team events at the Masters State Championships, which also marked Normanville’s first state event since the re-opening.

Through his hard work and passion, Dave has driven unprecedented growth, with memberships more than tripling since the club’s re-opening to well over 700 members. His leadership by example, both on and off the ‘field’, instils a sense of pride and responsibility among club members, and has fostered a culture of excellence and community spirit.

Youth Surf Life Saver Of The Year – Josh Warne (Glenelg SLSC)

Finalists: Tom Breen (Goolwa SLSC), Lucas Garlik (Chiton Rocks SLSC), Lachlan Larven (Glenelg SLSC)

Josh has been a dedicated member of Glenelg for 15 years, and his exemplary leadership is seen in his roles as IRB Captain, assistant Chief Instructor, Patrol Vice Captain, Operations Committee member, and offsider for the Lifesaving Manager.

He’s achieved a multitude of awards and is a valued member of the State Emergency Operations group as an RWC Operator, RPAS Pilot and JRB Crew. He truly went above and beyond this season, with his passion for frontline lifesaving seeing him complete well in excess of 200 patrol hours. Beyond his standard duties, some of his lifesaving operations included Christmas Day patrol, midweek hot weather patrols, night operations with JRB water safety over New Year’s Eve and the Adelaide Festival, and coordinating RWC patrols from Wirrina Cove over the March long weekend. These actions all ensured there was a patrol presence at otherwise unpatrolled locations.

It's this work ethic, ambition and positive attitude which have earned Josh respect and esteem among his peers and the broader surf lifesaving organisation.

Young Member Of The Year – Nicholas Davis (West Beach SLSC)

Finalists: Mia Alexander (Normanville SLSC), Grace Ellis (Aldinga Bay SLSC), Rose Fry (Beachport SLSC), Morgan Phillpotts-Jones (Christies Beach SLSC)

Nic has been a beloved member of the West Beach community since he was five years old, and today actively patrols, assists with Nippers water cover and competes in lifesaving and surf sport competitions. 

At just 13-years-old, he displays leadership beyond his years and is already having a profound impact on the younger Nippers. His skills, knowledge and patience are especially displayed in his relationship with fellow young member Hugh Perry. Hugh has ASD, ADHD, ODD and has a severe intellectual and faces massive anxiety. However, with the help of Nic’s ongoing guidance and encouragement at nipper trainings and carnivals, this year Hugh was able to win his first competition medal at Junior State Titles.

Nic’s enthusiasm and drive is contagious, and his positive attitude and behaviours epitomise what it means to be a surf life saver.

Youth Athlete Of The Year - Aiden Carberry (West Beach SLSC)

Finalists: Olive Charleson (Semaphore SLSC), Elsie Parsons (Glenelg SLSC), Cara Saville (Seacliff SLSC)

Aiden has truly shone this season, regularly featuring on the podium across various water and beach events at state and national level.

Most renowned for his expertise in ski, he notably celebrated gold medals in U17 Male Ski at Senior State Championships, U17 Youth Male Ski at the Interstate Championships, and, most recently, in the U17 Ski Race at Aussies.

His exceptional skill, athleticism and versatility as a multi-disciplined athlete have seen Aiden become a fierce contender in U19 and Open age group categories. His remarkable endurance also propelled him to victory in the U17 Short Course Coolangatta Gold last October, ranking 12th overall. 

But the victories are just one part of Aiden’s journey – what stands out is his unwavering commitment, integrity and respect for his competitors, officials, and fellow athletes. He inspires others with his work ethic and demeanour, and he has become dedicated to mentoring and coaching the younger West Beach members.

And when he isn’t smashing goals in the sports arena, Aiden can be found donning the red and yellow on patrol, currently holding his Silver Medallion, ARTC and IRB Crew award.

Trainer Of The Year – Julie Moran (Beachport SLSC)

Finalists: Hayley Hosking (Seacliff SLSC), Tim Riley (Grange SLSC), Cassie Wilmot (Goolwa SLSC)

This highly ambitious surf lifesaver has been a powerhouse in front and behind the scenes of Beachport Surf Life Saving Club and the Beachport VACSWIM program. Since the club’s inception in 2015, Julie has remained Chief Instructor and primary trainer, qualifying over 100 members across more than 10 different awards while also introducing four additional trainers to the club.

She’s been at the heart of every initiative at her surf club, facilitating surf babies, nippers and youth sessions, age manager courses, school surf rescue and bronze medallion trainings, boat licence courses and plenty more. Despite the barriers which face a regional club, Julie has always worked hard to develop and provide valuable resources and training advice, source equipment, and coordinate members for different programs.

Julie inspires all those around her with her enthusiasm, skill, and knowledge. Her dedication crucially ensures regional clubs like Beachport continue to upskill, grow, and remain engaged.

Assessor Of The Year - Hannah Darling (Grange SLSC)

Finalists: Ian Grant (Port Elliot SLSC), Siobhan Jackson (Christies Beach SLSC), Peter Kerrison (Moana SLSC)

Hannah’s extensive contributions have not only directly enhanced frontline services in SA, but also strengthened the capabilities of clubs across the state by expanding and upskilling the pool of qualified trainers and assessors state-wide.

This season, Hannah served as lead assessor at five state Bulk Bronze Assessments, while also assessing 52 SRCs, 62 Bronze Medallions, 19 ARTs, 11 IRB Crew, 13 IRB Drivers, 3 Probationary Trainers, and 7 Probationary Assessors, totalling over 160 candidates.

Beyond these duties, Hannah’s taken every opportunity this season to demonstrate her commitment to leadership and mentorship within surf lifesaving. She conducted a professional development workshop for all SA Bronze Trainers and Assessors at the SLSSA Education Conference, and spearheaded the ‘Trainer in Training’ Program at Grange to provide an education pathway for young members aged 13 – 16.

These endeavours demonstrate her remarkable ability to lead by example and embrace positive change.

Community Education Program Of The Year - Kurruru Culture Hub (North Haven SLSC)

Finalists: Beach Smart Program (Beachport SLSC), Same Wave Program (Port Elliot SLSC)

In partnership with Kura Yerlo, Kurruru Culture Hub invited the broader community to North Haven to participate in activities designed to honour and celebrate Kaurna culture. Specifically, participants took part in traditional dances, engaged in storytelling, explored artifacts, and delved into traditional art such as a painting.

The program ran directly before Nippers sessions, enabling Nipper families to engage in these enriching experiences, while also facilitating interaction between surf lifesaving members and the the broader community.

“Kurruru" translates to "circle" in Kaurna language and is highly symbolic of the program’s impact. By North Haven embracing Kaurna culture, the program has sown seeds of inclusivity and understanding. It has provided a platform for cultural exchange and dialogue. For First Nations families, it has offered a sense of belonging and empowerment, affirming their place within the Surf Life Saving family.

Athlete Of The Year – Maguire Reid (Port Noarlunga SLSC)

Finalists: Cooper Bristow (Christies Beach SLSC), Katie Natt (Seacliff SLSC), Leila Nazimi (West Beach SLSC)

In a season filled with triumphs, the hardworking 19-year-old racked up nine gold medals, five silver medals and one bronze across individual and team-based ski, board, ironman, and Taplin events at the Senior State Championships in the Open and U19 age categories. This included his fourth consecutive triumph in the open Ironman event. 

A force to be reckoned with, Maguire went on to claim his second consecutive gold medals in the U19 Male Ski and U19 Double Ski races at the Australian Championships, as well as an additional silver and bronze medal.

Not only a standout individual competitor, Maguire exemplifies true sportsmanship by readily stepping into teams when called upon and showing great camaraderie with fellow teammates, officials and supporters from other clubs.

Despite a gruelling training schedule and extensive competition demands, Maguire remains committed to his club and lifesaving duties. He has particularly become a standout role model for younger members, actively participating in training sessions, providing guidance to the next generation and inspiring with his incredible work ethic.

Surf Sport Team Of The Year – U23 Glenelg Grenades (Glenelg SLSC)

Finalists: Brighton U15 2p R&R (Brighton SLSC), Seacliff Lifesaver Relay (Seacliff SLSC), Sam West & Tina Hards (Christies Beach SLSC)

Ella Borlase, Maddi Fielke, Hana Ireland and Taleala McCarthy, guided by esteemed sweep Peter Tidswell, have once again ignited the surf boats scene with their skills and tenacity, achieving further greatness since last year’s successful campaign.

Their dominance continued across state, national and international levels, highlighted by their outstanding accolades, including Gold in U23 Female State Surf Boat Short and Long Course, and Bronze in the Open Female State Surf Final and ASRL Open U23.

However, the pinnacle of their season came with their second consecutive selection in the Australian Trans-Tasman Cup, where they clinched Gold against New Zealand and showcased their talents on the global stage.

Beyond their athletic prowess, the Grenades embody exceptional leadership and community spirit. They actively contribute to their club and community by raising funds, cooking for the junior BBQ, participating in club activities, and fulfilling their patrol duties, serving as role models both on and off the water.

We can’t think of a better way to celebrate and honour the Glenelg Grenades’ final season together, as these ladies move in the open age category next season.

Coach Of The Year – Charles Sheffield (Grange SLSC)

Finalists: Steve Collaton (Brighton SLSC), Rebecca Creedy (Glenelg SLSC), Peter Tidswell (Glenelg SLSC)

Now in his eighth season as Head Coach, Charles has fostered an exciting high-performance culture, driving Grangies to dominate at state and national level across individual beach sprints, flags and beach relays.

This season alone, his athletes won 21 gold medals at the SA State Championships, alongside multiple minor medals and podium clean sweeps, as well as eight medals at Aussies. Impressively, the two U17 beach relay teams which claimed a Bronze medal at Aussies were almost entirely made up of U15 athletes, reflecting his exceptional talent and dedication to developing youth.

Yet Charles’ impact extends far beyond Grange, as he mentored up-and-coming coaches and athletes during the monthly Beach Blitz sessions held at Glenelg Beach and provided guidance to other athletes during Aussies.

His ability to elevate beach events and maintain an exciting brand of athleticism in South Australia makes Charles a truly deserving recipient of this award.

Official Of The Year - Darcy Lines (Port Noarlunga SLSC)

Finalists: Gary Abed (Aldinga Bay SLSC), Marg Lamerton (Somerton SLSC), Paul Rothwell (Christies Beach SLSC)

It comes as no surprise that Darcy is renowned across all age groups and surf sport disciplines, given his attendance at virtually every carnival and championship this season, including juniors, seniors, surf rescue, pool rescue and IRB, along with National Pool Rescue State championships and the SA Surf League.

Darcy’s broad expertise in roles such as area official, competitor liaison, deputy referee and scrutineer demonstrate his dedication to upholding smooth and fair competition standards. In rain, hail or shine, Darcy maintains a cheerful demeanour and is highly approachable, readily assisting competitors and resolving issues while maintaining a high level of integrity and ensuring the safety of all athletes, officials, volunteers, and beachgoers.

His commitment to personal growth shines through in his active engagement with development sessions, while his passion for mentorship is evident in his encouragement and support of new and returning officials. Beyond these substantial contributions as an official, Darcy’s also exemplifies great leadership at club level, having been appointed Club President at Port Noarlunga this season.

Rescue of the Year – Tom & Michael Knauer (Moana SLSC)

Rescue date: Tuesday 20th February at Moana Beach

The drama unfolded when nine-year-old Harley, a nipper from Goolwa Surf Life Saving Club, was walking along Moana Beach just after 7pm and spotted a swimmer in distress. His step-mother proceeded to call triple zero before racing to Moana Surf Life Saving Club.

Once at the clubhouse, they found Tom and Michael Knauer, who were finishing up a workout at the gym. The brothers immediately sprung to action, grabbing their rescue boards to paddle out. What was initially thought to be one swimmer was in fact a mother and daughter who were struggling to keep their heads above water approximately 350 metres offshore in choppy conditions.

Fortunately, Michael and Tom used their lifesaving training to conduct the double rescue, paddling against the headwind to bring the exhausted swimmers safely back to shore as quickly as possible. By this time, paramedics had been alerted and were on the scene.

It was an inspiring team effort and an act of quick intervention, with SAPOL describing the event as a certain drowning had Tom and Michael not been there. Sixty seconds would have been the difference between this happy ending and a tragic one.

To top it off, this was also the first rescue mission the brothers had ever completed in their 20 years of patrolling, so we commend Michael and Tom for their swift response, bravery, and ability to put their core lifesaving skills and knowledge to action.

President’s Award - Heather Thompson (Grange SLSC)

Heather Thompson was presented the President’s Award for her unwavering loyalty, commitment and contributions to surf life saving for several decades, including nearly 30 years on the Surf Life Saving SA Board.

150+ Patrol Hours

Congratulations to the following members who logged in over 150+ patrol hours in Season 2023/24.

Our state’s surf lifesavers volunteered over 84,000 hours between them during our recent patrolling season, with some donating more than the equivalent of four working weeks to this cause.

Andrew Bedford (Aldinga Bay SLSC)

Ashley Sanders (Aldinga Bay SLSC)

Daniel Scadden (Aldinga Bay SLSC)

Neil Wilson (Aldinga Bay SLSC)

Kylie Ellison (Brighton SLSC)

John Fretwell (Brighton SLSC)

David Lucas (Brighton SLSC)

Christopher Parsons (Brighton SLSC)

Cal Silcock (Brighton SLSC)

Robert Tanner (Brighton SLSC)

Craig Van Tenac (Brighton SLSC)

Lillian Woodroffe (Brighton SLSC)

Lucas Garlik (Chiton Rocks SLSC)

Hugh Mahoney (Chiton Rocks SLSC)

Jeff Mews (Chiton Rocks SLSC)

William Piper-Bamber (Chiton Rocks SLSC)

Richard Nurmi (Christies Beach SLSC)

Kathryn Widdison (Christies Beach SLSC)

Lachlan Larven (Glenelg SLSC)

Joshua Warne (Glenelg SLSC)

Tom Breen (Goolwa SLSC)

Jack Breen (Goolwa SLSC)

Leah Breen (Goolwa SLSC)

Damion Burrage (Goolwa SLSC)

Piper Hudson (Goolwa SLSC)

Cassandra Wilmot (Goolwa SLSC)

Hannah Darling (Grange SLSC)

David Forrest (Grange SLSC)

Samuel Ralph (Grange SLSC)

Cacilia Ewenz (Moana SLSC)

Michael Jarvis (North Haven SLSC)

Jean-Noel Seneque (North Haven SLSC)

Ashley Baker (Port Noarlunga SLSC)

Derek Bawden (Seacliff SLSC)

Matthew Crichton (Seacliff SLSC)

Ethan Ellis (Seacliff SLSC)

Hayley Hosking (Seacliff SLSC)

Gregory Brown (Somerton SLSC)

John Charles (South Port SLSC)

Lyndon Mills (South Port SLSC)

Aaron Oliver (South Port SLSC)

Brian Burrowes (West Beach SLSC)

James Butler (West Beach SLSC)

Steve Pugliese (West Beach SLSC)