Two Central Coast lifesavers have been honoured with Surf Life Saving Australia Life Membership. Shelly Beach SLSC Don Van Keimpema and Umina SLSC Brett Harrod. Both men have contributed to the Surf Life Saving movement in various areas over their lifesaving years. To receive SLSA Life Membership is a great honour as it recognises the countless hours of volunteering each individual completes over decades of involvement within the movement.
Brett Harrod has made a significant impact in the surf lifesaving movement in administration and Surf Sports at all levels.
At Umina SLSC Brett held various roles in lifesaving initially as ger steward to administration as secretary and president and in surf sports as team manager.
At the Central Coast branch, he has been part of numerous committees over the years. From 1983- 89 Brett was the team manager for numerous international competitions in North America and New Zealand. In 1986 took on the role of branch treasurer and in 1998 became branch president.
At NSW Brett was appointed NSW president in 2006 – 2008 and in 2010 was appointed director of Surf Sports.
At the national level, Brett was on the board of Surf Sports from 2008- 2010 and was instrumental in securing the 2012 World Championships to be held in Australia.
Don Van Keimpema is currently the NSW Surf Sports Chair and continues to officiate at all levels from grassroots to international competition. He first officiated at the National Championships in 2002 and has been a deputy referee for 8 years. Over this time Don was instrumental in supporting officials and members during critical incidents and post-incident.
In his capacity as NSW Surf Sports Chair Don has worked tirelessly to develop youth pathways in Surf Sports. In 2017 alongside the other state Don launched the Youth Pathways Cup which provides a performance pathway for U14 and U15 members. This initiative is a key event in ensuring members are actively engaged through their sporting journey and recognise sporting excellence in these age groups.
