It’s been another massive season for Woolamai Beach SLSC

One that’s tested our capability, highlighted our professionalism, and demonstrated the strength of our volunteer patrols across some of the most challenging beaches in the state. Thanks to the sustained warm weather we had this season our beaches were busy but nonetheless our members kept them safe. I am happy to say that the 24/25 Season was a massive success filled with many social events and social activities that has brought our membership closer together.

Patrol Operations

This season has been one of learning and preparedness for the Life Saving Services Team as we ensure that we are ready to meet tomorrow’s demands. We have purchased more and more first aid equipment, something that we continue to go through a lot of, new Rescue Boards and many other items of new equipment.

Woolamai itself remains one of the most dynamic and hazardous beaches in Victoria, and our teams showed consistent vigilance, teamwork, and leadership in managing large crowds and complex surf conditions.

Some Lifesaving Statistics

Across Woolamai and Smiths Beach volunteer patrols:

Over 7,500 proactive interventions were carried out between both beaches, helping to prevent serious incidents before they occurred. These figures reflect not only the skill of our lifesavers, but their situational awareness and ability to manage risk under pressure.

As a testament to these statistics not coming easily this season our Club’s members delivered over 10,000 voluntary patrol hours and over 26 of them achieved more than 100 voluntary patrol hours.

Emergency Call-Outs

This season saw our volunteer lifesavers not only maintain a strong presence at Woolamai, but also respond to callouts at Smiths Beach, Surf Beach, Punchbowl, and Kilcunda, a testament to the commitment of our members and the growing demand for support across the region.

These responses required rapid mobilisation of personnel, equipment, and coordination with other emergency services. I want to personally thank all those involved.

Gear & Equipment

As usual this season, our operational capability was supported by the ongoing efforts of our dedicated gear and equipment officers. Their behind-the-scenes work ensured our patrols were always ready to respond. Whether it was IRB maintenance, first aid restocking, or keeping our mobile assets running smoothly, these members played a critical role in the club’s service delivery:

Beach Equipment Officer – Daniel Reynolds

First Aid Officers – Isabel Bulach & Janine Lloyd

IRB Officers – Lachlan Casey & Lucas Atkin

Mobile Equipment Officers – Christos Argyropoulos & Evan Richter

I’d like to extend my sincere thanks to each of them for their continued commitment and leadership in their respective roles. Their diligence, often done quietly behind the scenes is vital to our patrol readiness and lifesaving success.

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on a season filled with challenges, growth, and impact, I want to sincerely thank every patrolling member, patrol leader, and behind-the-scenes contributor who made this year such a success. Your dedication, professionalism, and genuine care for the community are what make Woolamai Beach SLSC the club it is.

As we look ahead to the 2025/26 season, we’ll continue building on the strong foundation we’ve laid, strengthening our response capability, mentoring new leaders, and adapting to the evolving needs of our beaches and the communities we serve. I’m pretty proud of what we’ve achieved together and excited for what’s next.

Jordan Kuerschner

Director of Life Saving Services & Co-Club Captain

Lifesaving Services & Club Co-Captain - Jordan Kuerschner