The Illawarra Rookie Lifesaver Program is in the third season in the Illawarra. Last seasons program was an overwhelming success with over 270 participants graduating. The rewards of the Rookie Program are being experienced in all of the participating clubs. The membership figures for the under 16 age groups have shown a dramatic increase as has the awareness of the opportunities available to all lifesavers increased.

The Illawarra Rookie Lifesaver Program is only as successful as the support people in the clubs. The credit for the success lies in the commitment from the Club Coordinators, club helpers and participants who used consultancy and group problem solving methods to support each other and the programs objectives.

The Branch is committed to the development strategies that have been employed for our youth and leadership people and the Rookie Lifesaver Program is but one example of this.

Vision Statement

To develop the skills and abilities of young people through participation in surf life saving that will benefit the future options of the Rookies and the local community.

Mission Statement

To conduct a Rookie Lifesaver Program that will:

• Be positive, healthy and educational for participants.
• Promote self development through community service.
• Prepare the participants for senior lifesaving.
• Train patrolling lifesavers for the future.
• Continue the ideals of surf life saving australia.

Aims of Program

• Increase the lifesaving and personal skills of the young members.
• Develop a steady flow of junior lifesavers into the patrolling ranks.
• Promote "practical lifesaving" to the younger members.
• Provide a transition between nipper and senior lifesaving.
• Provide a structured career path in surf lifesaving.

Rookie Activities

To assist with the education and development of the Rookie Lifesavers, additional activities are included in the Rookie Lifesaver Program. The Rookie Activities may be an extension of lifesaving functions, social events or field visits. The Rookie Lifesaver Program is aimed at participation and developing patrolling lifesavers not creating elite competitors.

Some activities include:

• Field Visits - Rescue Helicopter / Shark Patrol.
• Branch Radio Command.
• Other Emergency Service Facilities le ambulance, police, SES, fire/bush/fire station, mines rescue, coastal patrol etc.....
• Lifesaving Events - patients for Bronze exams, First Aid and Patrol Competitions.
• Competition events.
• Assist at local surf carnivals.
• Fun Activities - novelty surf carnivals.
• Visits to recreation facilities.
• Movie nights.
• Ten pin bowling competitions.
• Community Events - charity collectors, lifesaving displays, Christmas gift wrapping.
• Club Activities - fundraisers, carnivals, teaching Surf Ed to nippers, assisting with nipper water safety.
• Sleep overs.
• Education training weekends.

Send email for further information.