In Kiama, adventure meets safety at the local surf lifesaving club, where young people are turning their love of the ocean into life-changing skills. The Kiama Surf Lifesaving Club (KSLSC) is not just about surf sports; it’s about equipping the next generation with confidence, responsibility, and a deep respect for the ocean.

Peter Gallagher, the head board coach, is passionate about the club’s mission. “Surf lifesaving isn’t just about competition,” he says. “It’s about teaching kids to navigate our beaches safely and to look after one another. Our beach is challenging, so we focus on giving them the skills they need to enjoy it with confidence. And if they want to compete, that’s a bonus.”

The club’s cadet program offers young lifesavers more than just training in board paddling. It teaches them how to recognise rips, use them strategically in rescues, and avoid unnecessary risks. These are not just ocean skills, they are life skills.

The program runs year-round, blending structured training with vibrant social events that build camaraderie and resilience. From early morning board sessions to pizza nights and barbecues, the club fosters a sense of belonging and teamwork.

“Kiama Surf Lifesaving Club is about more than sport,” Peter explains. “It’s about community. These kids aren’t just learning to paddle a board, they’re learning how to keep others safe, and that’s something they’ll carry with them forever.”

The club’s efforts are evident in its young members. Whether competing in surf events or assisting during rescues, these cadets are on the front lines of action, mastering the unpredictable ocean with confidence and skill.

For parents, the club offers an ideal channel for their children’s adventurous spirit. With opportunities to compete, learn lifesaving skills, and contribute to their community, KSLSC provides excitement and purpose in equal measure.

Kiama’s Surf Lifesaving Club is setting the standard for how young people can embrace adventure responsibly. By giving kids the tools to navigate challenges safely, it ensures that every wave they catch, and every rescue they make, is a testament to their training, courage, and care.