By RON LANE
WITH last weekend being the first of the 2014/15 patrolling season all went well for our three local clubs Peregian, Sunshine Beach and Noosa Heads.
At Peregian it was a quite weekend and patrol captains reported no incidents. While for Sunshine Beach it was full on. This season Sunshine will start with twelve patrols which will bring the club close to full strength.
Regarding the season club captain Scott Summers said, “Our patrol strength is looking good, we have a bronze squad starting on the 9th October and our overall membership is solid.
“Also we have a new IRB (Inflatable Rescue Boat) on order with Thundercat Inflatable and this will further strengthen our rescue teams.
“Our members were put through their proficiencies and our Nippers were on the beach for their first day of the season.”
Over the hill at Noosa Main Beach it was a similar story. Patrols were on duty, proficiencies were being conducted, and the Seahorse Nippers were having the third Saturday of their season.
For the Seahorse people Saturday was one of their most successful ever with 53 children in attendance and 64 helpers, ensuring that all went well. Once again the Noosa Shire Council provided the parking facilities and under the supervision of the surf club parking attendants, this ensured that access to the beach was made easier for the parents and their children.
“The Seahorse Nippers,” said Noosa Club Captain Joe Cirillo, “would have to be one of the greatest success stories in the history of our club and we congratulate and thank all those involved… they have made us very proud.
“To hear the laughter and see the smiles on the faces of these kids makes it all worthwhile.”
In keeping with club tradition Noosa held its ‘Back to the Beach’ start of the season barbecue on Saturday evening. It was good to see the Peregian President Brett Leckie and several of his people in attendance, socialising with their Noosa club mates.
With the IRB patrols now playing a major role, all relevant equipment motors and trailers were inspected and training continued.
Saturday also saw a visit from Sunshine Beach IRB patrol member Paul Brady who spent time with Noosa’s IRB supervisor David James.
“Our clubs are working together,” James said, “discussing patrolling and the possible formation of racing teams.
“These teams are now a vital part of our training program for the winter months.
“Also with our two clubs being on both ends of National Park a good communication is vital.”
In keeping with their policies of working for the community both Noosa and Sunshine Beach surf clubs sent representatives to the Annual Smile for a Child Charity Golf Day which was held at the Tewantin Golf Club.
“A good way to say thanks to our community for their support of our clubs,” said Noosa’s Anton Mogg.
