Training

Become a lifeguard or patrol support.

Train to Patrol

Lifeguard / Patrol Support

There are two types of patrolling members in Surf Life Saving - Lifeguard and Patrol Support. Both of these patrolling types participate in the same training, however patrol support does not complete any water components.

Surf Lifeguard Award (Bronze Medallion)

To become a qualified surf lifeguard, you must gain your Surf Lifeguard Award (Bronze Medallion). You must be 14 years or older and pass your Surf Lifeguard Award exam. Surf Life Saving Baylys Beach and Surf Life Saving Northern Region provide training and examination programmes.
The exam comprises:

  • Correct completion of the Surf Lifeguard Award Workbook

  • 400m pool swim in under 9 minutes

  • Run/Swim/Run in the surf

  • Tube rescue test

  • CPR test

  • Theory test

  • Practical tests on radio communication and first aid

Patrol Support Award

To become a patrol support, you must gain your Patrol Support Award. You must be 14 years or older and pass your Patrol Support Award exam (this is run with the Surf Lifeguard Award exam). Surf Life Saving Baylys Beach and Surf Life Saving Northern Region provide training and examination programmes.
The exam comprises:

  • Correct completion of the Surf Lifeguard Award Workbook

  • CPR test

  • Theory Test

  • Practical tests on radio communication and first aid

The Patrol Support Award has proven a popular choice and is recommended for members that wish to patrol but may not have high confidence or ability in the water.

Further Development

Once you are a qualified Lifeguard or Patrol Support, there are many opportunities to increase you skills and gain more awards. (any awards that include a water component cannot be attained by Patrol Support)

First Aid Courses

  • Surf First Aid (Previously First Aid Level 1 & 2)

  • Advanced Surf First Aid (Previously First Aid Level 3)

  • First Aid Pain Relief Module

Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) Courses and Qualifications

  • IRB Crewpersons Module

  • Marine VHF Operators Certificate

  • Senior Lifeguard Award - IRB Drivers

Further Courses and Qualifications

  • Board Rescue Module

  • Senior Lifeguard - Patrol Captain

  • Advanced Lifeguard Award

  • Rescue Water Craft (Jetski)

  • Surf Lifeguard / IRB Instructors Award

  • Surf Lifeguard / IRB Examiner

Camps / Schools

  • Youth Development Camp

  • Intermediate Lifeguard School

  • National Lifeguard School (Advanced Lifeguard Award)

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