A Sunshine Coast lifeguard and two volunteer surf lifesavers have been recognised for their dedication to coastal safety, claiming top honours at Surf Life Saving Queensland’s (SLSQ) Awards of Excellence Gala Ball in Brisbane last Saturday.
The hard work and passion of the state’s volunteer surf lifesavers and lifeguards was celebrated at the event, which aims to honour those who have gone above and beyond to protect beachgoers.
Noosa Heads SLSC member Lily Tindall was named Under 18 Junior Surf Lifesaver of the Year and Sunshine Beach SLSC member Craig Law was honoured with Volunteer of the Year, while Rowan Simpson picked up Lifeguard of the Year.
Mr Law, who holds seven positions at his own club, three at branch level and three station positions, was awarded for his dedication, particularly in respect to the empowerment of youth members.
“It’s just nice to be appreciated by other people and to know they recognise that you’re doing a good job and that you’re passionate about your involvement in the organisation,” he said.
“I’m heavily involved in the youth Inter-Branch and Queensland teams, and in surf sports and club patrols.“I’m a big kid at heart – I think that they keep me young and for me that’s the fun part.”
Lily Tindall is involved in a broad range of lifesaving activities, from fulfilling the roles of patrol vice captain and training officer, to becoming part of the club’s lifesaving committee.
“The club is like a little family, honestly. They’re all so caring and loving. You just meet so many amazing people,” she said.
“Lifesaving provides so many amazing opportunities for people as well as personal development to help other people, and I love that.
“I recently got the opportunity to become a training and development officer at the club and I love being able to teach people what I know and pass on my knowledge.
“I got to go to the Breaka Youth Excellence Program and it opened my eyes to what else surf lifesaving can offer and it gave me a lot of confidence as well. I really felt that I grew from that experience.”
Rowan Simpson said being named Lifeguard of the Year was an honour given the many deserving lifeguards he worked alongside.
“I am proud of all of those that work for the service and feel humbled to represent our organisation,” he said.
“One of my proudest achievements over the last year has been establishing connections between the volunteer surf lifesavers, as well as the Sunshine Coast Airport Fire and Rescue service. These professional relationships have been successful in developing new types of training and cooperation methods which I am very proud to be involved with.
“The beach and ocean are my office and I am so lucky to call it so. I love being able to meet our public and raise ocean awareness. As a professional lifeguard you’re constantly learning and have a healthy lifestyle, which to me, is everything.”
SLSQ Chief Executive Officer Dave Whimpey congratulated all Sunshine Coast winners, saying the recognition was well-deserved.
“This award is a genuine testament to the dedication that Lily, Craig and Rowan have to keeping our beaches safe.”
Lifeguard Thomas Cervi also received a Lifesaving Excellence Award for his resuscitation efforts on a male at Dolphin Point in Noosa Heads last year.
