Surf Life Saving Lakes Entrance has wrapped up its annual Bronze Camp, with more than 40 new and aspiring lifesavers completing vital training ahead of the busy summer season.
The week-long camp concluded on Saturday, December 13, and benefited from ideal weather and surf conditions, allowing participants to train in a safe but realistic beach environment.
Club captain Lachy Chester said the conditions helped make the camp a strong success.
“Another Bronze Camp done and dusted for the upcoming summer season,” he said.
“We were lucky to have great conditions for our junior lifesavers to learn in, which made for a fantastic week of camp.”
Throughout the week, 22 candidates completed their Bronze Medallion, while 19 participants earned their Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC). Both qualifications are essential for volunteer lifesavers and equip participants with the skills needed to respond to emergencies in the surf.
The trainees were put through a wide range of practical and theoretical sessions, including surf awareness, rescue techniques, first aid, CPR, and teamwork skills, ensuring they are well prepared to patrol local beaches over summer.
With visitor numbers expected to rise sharply during the warmer months, Chester said the new qualifiers would play an important role in keeping beachgoers safe.
“If you’re heading to the beach over summer, please remember to always swim between the flags and listen to all beach safety messages from our volunteer lifesaver team,” he said.
A number of local businesses helped the camp go ahead, including PFD, Bairnsdale Fruit Supply, Lakes Entrance Sports and Community Club, Lakes Entrance Fishing Limited, The Cove, Tambo Waste, Lakes IGA, Bakers Delight, Patties Food.
Patrols at Lakes Entrance Main Beach and Eastern Beach will commence daily from December 22 through to February 8, with Main Beach continuing to be patrolled on weekends and public holidays through until ANZAC Day.
Surf Life Saving Lakes Entrance relies heavily on volunteers, and the successful completion of Bronze Camp ensures the club is well staffed and ready for the challenges of the summer season.
The club encourages all beach users to follow safety advice and support local lifesavers as they work to keep East Gippsland’s beaches safe.
