The Under 11 girls board final was underway at our Newcastle Permanent Branch Championships held at Terrigal last Sunday 13th February 2022. In challenging conditions, the field of 16 had made it around the cans and were heading back to shore.
Zoe Shaw, an Avoca SLSC member, was participating in the event, after navigating the early rounds successfully. On her way back in, Zoe noticed a teammate of hers, Isla, upset after losing her board and suffering an injury to her jaw.
Like a true lifesaver, Zoe abandoned the race to paddle towards her friend. Zoe got to Isla, jumped off her board and helped Isla onto it. She held the board, re-assured her mate and began to wade her into shore.
Nearby water safety personnel were there quickly and assisted Zoe with the rescue and helped bring Isla to shore. Zoe stayed with Isla until she was completely out of the water, re-assuring her and showing genuine concern.
After the rescue, Zoe then proceeded up the beach to be embraced by her friends and family, including her dad Anthony, who couldn’t have been prouder. Isla has recovered well from her incident thanks to the quick thinking of a fellow competitor.
At the end of the day, the actions of Zoe are at the core of everything we do. SLSCC would like to commend Zoe on her efforts with the rescue and her willingness to unselfishly cast her race aside to help a fellow competitor. Well done Zoe!