What is Surf Patrol?

Surf patrol is safeguarding the many people who use our beach and surrounding areas by a team (patrol) of surf lifesavers. These lifesavers are a mix of youth and experience and have a variety of different skills, all designed to ensure the safety of our beach and ocean users.

At North Wollongong we cover (patrol) from Fairy Creek in the north to the rocks at the southern end of the beach and we are often required to go beyond these areas.

A surf patrol will constantly check the surf and beach conditions to make sure all beach users are safe and not in any danger.

We patrol for many reasons. Most commonly we find our members commit to volunteer surf patrol through a sense of community contribution. Others continue their journey from being junior (Nipper) lifesavers and simply love the life of being at the beach and learning great skills.

As a surf lifesaving club we undertake the task of volunteer lifesaving services on weekends and public holidays.Teams of patrolling members have the honour and responsibility to ensure the safety of the public both in the water and on the beach and surrounding areas.

Many members have been involved with the club for several years while others are newcomers to the surf lifesaving journey.

A surf patrol day begins before the beach officially opens. Members arrive early to ensure everything is prepared by the 9 AM opening. The first task is to check all equipment, making sure it's ready for the day's operations. The Patrol Captain reviews the surf and beach conditions to decide if the beach can safely open and determines the best location for the red and yellow flags, which mark the safest area for swimming. The team also prepares the Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) to ensure it’s ready for any potential rescues.

In the Water - Join the front line of our rescue team and put your water skills to use. Whether you're operating rescue boards, tubes, or driving the IRB, your role is vital in keeping beach-goers safe.

On the Sand - If water rescues aren’t your thing, there are still crucial roles for you. Become a First Aider on the beach or provide essential communication support as a Radio Operator.

A Day in the Life - “Sunday morning is looking great, with a few waves around. It’s going to be a beautiful day at the beach.” The radio buzzes to life, and you’re up at 7:00 AM, grabbing your new North Wollongong SLSC surf patrol uniform. You recall the pride of receiving it from the club president last weekend, and now you’re gearing up for your first official surf patrol. With a mix of nerves and excitement, you head to the beach after a hearty breakfast.

At the beach, you meet your fellow patrol members, many of whom trained with you and share your eagerness. The team welcomes you warmly, easing your nerves and boosting your excitement.

As the patrol setup begins, you recognise familiar tasks from your training. You see the Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB), the All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV), communication radios, rescue boards, tubes, and the patrol shelter, all essential for a successful day on patrol.