There’s been huge energy around the club lately, and our Freshie youth members continue to show why they’re such a vital part of our community.

Firstly, a massive congratulations and welcome to the 28 youth members who recently achieved their Surf Rescue Certificate and the 11 youth members who completed their Bronze Medallion! This is an incredible milestone — not only for each new lifesaver but for the strength of our patrol teams heading into the busy summer months. Thank you to Michiel Tops, John Goldrick and Kelly Dobrow for volunteering substantial hours towards training and preparing everyone for their assessment; your commitment, enthusiasm and teamwork have make a noticeable impact on the beach. Well done, team!

Freshie youth also saw great success at the final round of the Fast Fives series at Whale Beach on November 15th. Competitors competed in five competitive rounds of board, ski, and swim races, earning points for each of their placings. We had an incredibly strong team of u14s/15s and opens competitions racing against some fierce opposition. The conclusion of the Fast Fives series calls for some shoutouts to our competitors who ended with honourable point scores – Harry Parker 1st in the Open Ski Championship, Caitlin Price 2nd in the Open Board Championship, 

Youth Training and opportunities – Get involved

Our youth surf sports sessions continue to bring in fantastic attendance, with members turning up in big numbers for board, ski and swim training. If you’d like to join the action, all skill levels are welcome — no board or ski required. Join the training chat to get started: www.bit.ly/trainingsquadchat

Beyond our board/ski/swim program, it’s been great to see so many new youth members getting involved in other disciplines of surf sports – there’s something for everyone to get involved!

• Lifesaving Competition: First Aid, Patrol Competition & Champion Lifesaver – contact Lindsay Davis: 0411 951 706
• Surf Boat Rowing: High-energy, team-based, and open to beginners – contact Ian Craddock: 0419 621 993
• R&R & March Past: Perfect for those who love discipline, teamwork and tradition – contact Seb Disano: 0403 775 873

It’s been a busy month for Freshie youth – thank you to everyone who has contributed to the development and success of such events. As summer and school holidays approach, I’d love to see our youth coming down to the beach when they can!

Samantha Lever