Welcome to Sunshine Beach Surf Life Saving Club, a foundation of the local community and the keepers of safety on our beautiful beaches. For more than 40 years, our club has not only kept beachgoers safe but also nurtured a sense of community through our lifesaving services and competitive surf sports.
Surf Life Saving, a movement that encompasses volunteer lifesaving services and competitive surf sports, holds a special place in the hearts of Australians. Known colloquially as “clubbies” or “actives”, volunteer lifesavers play a vital role in ensuring the safety of beachgoers. Our iconic institution, the Sunshine Beach Surf Life Saving Club, is a hub of community spirit and local heroism.
Founded in 1980, the club was born from the dedication of 25 local surfers. Inspired by Marjorie Tripp, they came together in a tin shed. The year 2023 marked our 40th anniversary, celebrating four decades of selfless service to the Sunshine Beach community.
The club’s rich history reflects the challenges faced during its embryonic years. Attempts in the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s were thwarted by external events, including the Great Depression and World War II. However, resilience prevailed, and the club finally took root in the 1980s, shaping the future of lifesaving at Sunshine Beach.
The 1980s marked a transformative period, not just for the club but for the broader surf lifesaving movement. Women were admitted to full membership in 1980, a significant milestone that doubled the active membership across Australia. Sunshine Beach proudly welcomed its first all-female bronze squad, setting the stage for increased gender equality.
As the Club built its iconic clubhouse, the Sunshine family thrived through teamwork and community support. Lifesavers, builders, architects, and sponsors collaborated to create a home for active members and a symbol of safety on Sunshine Beach.
In recent years, the club’s commitment has been showcased through remarkable statistics, including major rescues, first aid treatments, and a significant number of beach attendees. The invaluable contributions of individuals, like our Life Members, underscore the dedication embedded in the club’s DNA.
Today, the Sunshine Beach Surf Life Saving Club stands not just as a building, but as a testament to the spirit of volunteerism, community, and safety. It remains a place where everyone, regardless of background, is welcomed into the Sunshine family, ensuring that the sun of safety continues to shine on the pristine shores of Sunshine Beach.
The Club comprises three divisions: Lifesaving, Surf Sports, and Junior Activities, affectionately known as ‘Nippers’. Each plays a crucial role in shaping a safety-conscious community. Our Junior Activities program introduces children aged 6 to 14 to surf lifesaving, promoting friendships and imparting essential beach safety skills.
Lifesavers at Sunshine Beach undergo rigorous training to earn either a Bronze Medallion or a Surf Rescue Certificate. This training equips them to handle aquatic rescues, provide first aid, and educate the public on surf safety. Our volunteers patrol the beach on weekends and public holidays, embodying the essence of Australia’s largest volunteer-based community organisation.
Competitive surf sports showcase the skills needed for lifesaving. These range from iconic Ironman and Ironwoman events to Champion Lifesaver competitions. The Sunshine Beach Surf Life Saving Club has consistently demonstrated its commitment to excellence, evident in the achievements of our members.
As the Supporters Club, we play a vital role in raising essential funds to support all aspects of our lifesaving programs. Our mission comes to life through a variety of engaging activities, including enjoying fantastic beverages from local breweries and distillers, savouring delicious cuisine crafted by our award-winning chefs using locally sourced ingredients, and hosting unforgettable events in our Ocean View Room. Join us in making a meaningful impact on our lifesaving initiatives while enjoying delightful experiences that support local businesses.
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