Training & Education

The development of the skills necessary to become the ‘best’ lifesaver you can be is a task that is taken very seriously throughout the whole movement. The club in conjunction with the North Barrier Branch regularly holds courses that will assist members in becoming active members.

The initial and base award that any member should attain to become a patrolling member is the Bronze Medallion. This teaches all the basics involved in patrolling our beaches such as; Basic Resuscitation, Basic First Aid, Rescue Techniques, Communication, Working in a team. This is also a nationally accredited course which in conjunction ends with the attainment of a Certificate II: Public Aquatic Safety. A physical requirement is also to be completed before attainment of this award. This consists of a 400m swim performed in a pool of no less than 25m, performed in 9 min or less, as well as a run, swim, run course again performed in 9 min or less.

After completing your Bronze Medallion you are then able to commence patrolling. Annually you will be required to complete a proficiency to keep skills up to date and assure that you are able to still physically perform your duties. There are other courses also run throughout the season to advance your skill set and hone the abilities that become an interest to you during your patrolling.

These Include

Surf Rescue Certificate

Prerequisite age 13 years or older, complete a 200m swim in no more than 5 min (this is the award for those who want to patrol but do not feel they can complete requirements of the Bronze Medallion)

Radio Operators Certificate

Prerequisite age 14 years or older

Advanced Resuscitation Certificate

Prerequisite age 15 years or older, (basic resuscitation knowledge recommended)

Operational First Aid Certificate

Prerequisite age 15 years or older

IRB Crewman Certificate

Prerequisite age 15 years or older, hold a current Bronze Medallion

Silver Medallion: IRB Driver

Prerequisite age 16 years or older, hold a current Bronze Medallion and IRB Crewman Certificate (with 20 logged crew hours)

Silver Medallion: Beach Management

Prerequisite age 17 years or older, hold a current Bronze Medallion (this is the patrol captains award)

Silver Medallion: Advanced Lifesaving

Prerequisite age 17 years or older, hold a current Bronze Medallion, Advanced Resuscitation Certificate and Operational First Aid Certificate

Gold Medallion: Advanced Lifesaving

Prerequisite age 18 years or older, hold a current Bronze Medallion, Silver Medallion: IRB Driver, Silver Medallion: Beach Management, Silver Medallion: Advanced Lifesaving, complete a 800m swim in no more than 13 min (this is the lifeguard award)

There are many other awards available so for more information contact Chief Training Officer, Director of Lifesaving or Club Captain.