A Symbol of Safety - Southbourne Surf Group

Southbourne Surf Life Saving Group A Symbol of SafetyDuring summer, a beach becomes our favorite playground. A place where we can swim,surf, relax and hangout with family and friends. But the enjoyment brought by the oceanalso carries a risk for anyone. Each year, many people die due to drowning. In this case, it isreally essential to have a lifesaver patrolling beaches to prevent and avoid the sudden lossof life.A lifesaver is an important asset to the community and a symbol of safety when at thebeach. At some point, we feel secured in the sea with a lifeguard watching us. This is

because we know that they will come to rescue in case something unexpected happens. Inlifesaving, gaining the necessary skills in order to change a situation and save a life isextremely a rewarding opportunity. Lifesaving is not an easy job as it requires extensivetraining to be mentally and physically fit to respond in an emergency situation underdistress. Yet, along with the extensive training comes rewarding benefits such as being partof a team and acquiring friends. It also offers a sense of responsibility and a worthwhileexperience.Carrying their rescue tubes and surf skis, the volunteer members of Southbourne Surf LifeSaving Club patrols the beach daily, guarding the coast and saving people who get intodifficulties when they are swimming in the sea. Their club is located at the bottom of St.Catherine’s path near the seaside eatery Bistro on the Beach.Southbourne Surf Life Saving Club mainly composes of younger members dedicated toprotect and save lives. They are considered as the Beach Lifeguards of Tomorrow. Childrenage seven are on the Nippers program to learn basic lifesaving education. For the youngones age twelve to sixteen, the club offers a comprehensive Lifesaving and LifesavingSports. While ages sixteen and above are trained to take developmental courses in BeachLifeguarding.Lifesavers for me, is like a hero. Why? Because like any other professions, they also saveand protect human lives. What they have is a life or death job and it is no greater feeling forthem than to rescue someone and sending them home safe and alive.