Annie Coleman

 

One of our 2018-19 Club Vice Captains, Annie completed her Surf Rescue Certificate in 2013 and in 2015, her Bronze Medallion. Annie has been a Patrol Vice Captain, she has helped train on Bronze Camps, and Development Camps as a leader. Annie is also working with the LSV female leadership network and MC of our 2018-2019 60 Year Presentation Night. Outside of Surf Life Saving Annie is currently training at University to be a Nurse.

 

What season did you join the club?

I began patrolling after doing my SRC in the 2012/13 season, and did my Bronze in the 2015/16 season.

What inspired you to join the surf life saving movement?

My family has a beach house in Woolamai and my parents wanted me and my brother to be safe in the water so got us doing Nippers. I started Nippers in 2007 and then followed the path to becoming a Surf Life Saver.

Having come through the Nippers program I had a great bunch of friends that I really wanted to continue on with! I also thought Kat Turner, an older club person who ran our Nippers and SRC, was the coolest person I knew and she really inspired me to become a life saver myself.

What keeps you coming back every season?

My friends are the biggest thing that gets me coming back, I love going down to the club and seeing everyone, knowing it will always be a good time. This Surf Club is like one big family and it makes me really happy. I come back because each season I have been at Woolamai I have been given a new opportunity, whether it be gaining new awards or leadership roles, I am constantly improving and learning. I have grown up through this Club and it has shaped the person I am and who I aspire to be.

Why should females within our community participate in the surf life saving movement?

Surf Life Saving is a welcoming and fun environment. There are so many different paths a person can chose within Life Saving with specific programs for girls. At Woolamai we have a girl’s surf group which is all about getting in the water and having an absolute ball!

What opportunities have been offered to you through the surf life saving movement?

Through Life Saving I have had the chance to take on multiple leadership roles which have developed my leadership and management skills. I have had the opportunity to go on various camps which have given me practical skills, I have then taken into my everyday life and even given me employment options.

Who were/are your mentors in Surf Life Saving?

From a very young age I have been inspired by Michelle Murphy. Michelle is a strong, leading female who I have had the chance to get to know largely through being a Nippers Age Manager. Michelle has taught me how to make positive change, and to fight for what I believe is the right thing. Riley Fyffe is another big influence on me. Riley gave me my first leadership role and has since guided me through all types of situations. He is dedicated and caring, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without him. Riley pushed me to get new awards and increase my abilities to a level I never imagined.

What do you love most about being a Surf Lifesaver at Woolamai Beach SLSC?

I love going down to patrol, having fun with my friends, while also helping people. Finishing a day of patrol and then going for a swim is the best feeling in the world. I love the water and the feeling of catching a wave. Everything about Woolamai is comfortable and I love everything about this Club.

What would you say to a young girl considering joining her local surf club?

Do it, do it right now! Life saving has changed my life, it has given me direction, knowledge, lifelong memories and some of the best friendships a person can have!

 
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