Lifesavers of the future in training at Lennox
The future of local surf lifesaving is in safe hands, with a record 27 eager 13-year-olds currently undertaking their Surf Rescue Certificate training at Lennox Head Alstonville Surf Life Saving Club.
The group is learning the fundamentals of aquatic rescue, how to read the ocean and identify hazards such as rips, as well as basic first aid and resuscitation.
The intensive twice-weekly, four- week course, which commenced on 11 August, blends theory with plenty of practical training, and brings together current and former Nippers as well as a small number who are new to the world of lifesaving.
“This is the biggest group we have ever had here at Lennox, and we look forward to welcoming each of them into the surf lifesaving family at the conclusion of their training,” said Club Chief Training Officer Mark Laverty.
“In addition to promoting a healthy lifestyle and having fun in and out of the water, our club is committed to surf safety and drowning prevention. These young people are the lifesavers of tomorrow, and their enthusiasm and commitment to our training program is a credit to each of them.
“We also recognise the work of our age managers who have inspired many of these young teenagers to take their passion for the beach to the next level.”
13 year-old Shaylla Young loves the water and has been a Nipper with Lennox Head since the age of nine. “I have always wanted to be a lifesaver and can’t wait to wear the red and yellow and be a part of the patrol team at the end of our training,” she said.
While winter is traditionally a quieter time for surf lifesaving, there is plenty going on behind the scenes at Lennox Head, with many Nippers’ parents currently undertaking their bronze training. The club has also been training inflatable rescue boat drivers and crew, and jet-ski operators.
