The tragic loss of three lives and numerous rescues on our beaches this season is a sobering reminder of the vital role lifeguards play in our community. For Amelia Lee, the surf club isn’t just a place to patrol the beach—it’s home. “This has always been a community I can come back to,” the 15-year-old cadet says. “It’s taught me life skills, teamwork, and how to think on my feet. It’s more than a club; it’s family.”

Amelia’s journey began as a nipper, learning surf safety, swimming skills, and how to navigate the waves with confidence. Nippers, who start as young as six, are introduced to the basics of lifesaving while forming friendships that often last a lifetime. By 13, many graduate to earning their Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC), the first step in becoming a patroller. For Amelia, earning her SRC was a proud moment. “Getting that red and yellow uniform felt like a huge achievement,” she says. At 15, Amelia took the next step, earning her Bronze Medallion, which required mastering rescue techniques, advanced resuscitation, and operating essential equipment like rescue boards and radios.

“The Bronze isn’t just about skills,” says patrol captain Ben George. “It’s about building confidence—not just on the beach but in life.” His daughter, also a cadet, is following in the same footsteps. “It’s great to see the younger generation embracing it,” he adds.

The club’s focus on mentoring ensures that young cadets, like Amelia and Ben’s daughter, don’t just learn skills—they gain leadership experience. Cadets are paired with seasoned lifesavers during patrols, allowing them to grow their abilities in a supportive environment. “It’s not about throwing them in the deep end,” says Ben. “We work with them so they stick around, keep learning, and eventually take on leadership roles themselves.”

The recent tragedies have amplified the urgency of this work. “We need more young people stepping up to become lifesavers,” says Councillor Matt Brown, Amelia’s father and a long-time club member. “These incidents are heartbreaking, but they also remind us how crucial it is to invest in training and education. Every lifeguard we train could be the difference between life and death.”

Kiama Council Mayor Cameron McDonald has echoed this sentiment, urging safe use of our beaches and waterways after the recent death at South Bombo Beach. This is the second drowning at Kiama’s beaches this holiday season. “We urge all visitors and locals to follow safety guidelines when they’re in or around the water. Use our patrolled beaches, swim between the flags and always listen to instructions from our Lifeguards and volunteer Lifesavers.” Mayor McDonald said.

“Our Lifeguards are professionals. Take their advice and instructions seriously and do what you are asked. Read the signs. Know your personal abilities and limitations. Don’t take unnecessary risks. It’s a terrible tragedy when someone loses their life and the toll on our staff and others who help out is enormous.”

Mayor McDonald also highlighted the importance of broader water safety: “We want everyone to be able to safely enjoy our wonderful beaches and waterways, but it’s a fact that many of them do have strong rips and currents. Beach and water users must read the signs, follow instructions, and adhere to safety guidelines. Wear a life jacket if you’re in watercraft, stick to designated areas, and never go in the water after consuming alcohol. Take precautions on our rock shelves too—freak waves can occur, and lifejackets save lives. Any and all of these measures could help prevent another tragedy.”

Through their focus on training, leadership, and connection, the Kiama Surf Lifesaving Club is creating more than just lifesavers. It’s building a community where every generation has a role to play—whether it’s in the water, on the beach, or behind the scenes. And for families like the Browns and the Georges, it’s a legacy they’re proud to be part of.

As the community reflects on recent losses, the importance of nurturing young lifesavers and following water safety guidelines has never been clearer. Every cadet like Amelia represents hope for safer beaches and stronger connections for years to come.

Essential Beach Safety Tips for a Safe Day by the Water

• Download the BeachSafe App: Check for real-time updates on beach conditions, patrol hours, and safety tips.
• Use patrolled beaches: Always swim between the red and yellow flags.
• Learn to spot a rip current: Visit the How to Spot a Rip interactive guide for essential tips.
• Float to survive: If caught in a rip current, stay calm, float on your back, and signal for help.
• Follow lifeguard advice: Listen to instructions and warnings from lifeguards and lifesavers.
• Know your limits: Be honest about your swimming ability and avoid strong surf if unsure.
• Read safety signs: Pay attention to signage at the beach to identify hazards.
• Wear a life jacket: Use life jackets when engaging in watercraft activities or rock fishing.
• Never swim alone: Always have a companion or ensure someone knows where you are.
• Avoid alcohol before swimming: Alcohol impairs judgment and increases drowning risks.
• Stay out of unpatrolled areas: Avoid swimming in isolated or unpatrolled beaches, especially after hours.
• Teach children water safety: Educate kids on swimming between the flags and recognising dangers.
• Stay vigilant near rock shelves: Be cautious of freak waves and slippery surfaces.
• Check weather and tides: Understand conditions before heading to the beach or water.