This season marks 40 years since women began to gain their Bronze Medallion and participate on patrol. To celebrate this milestone Surf Life Saving Central Coast hosted the inaugural Women in Lifesaving luncheon.
As early as 1904 Surf Life Saving had women involvement in gaining their bronze medallion and proficiencies in water safety. Sadly, in 1930 the Surf Life Saving movement deemed the qualification was to demanding on a woman’s physique.
Then during the WWII, women took on patrolling duties once again whilst the men were away. The men soon returned and women were once again removed from patrolling the beaches.
But it wasn’t until 1980 when a motion put forward by Surf Life Saving NSW reversed this. The motion was to allow women to officially participate as lifesavers on patrol.
Women’s contribution to the development of Surf Life Saving has been instrumental to the success of the organisation. Today women form 46% of the membership base.
Sunday’s lunch serves as a reminder of the journey those female pioneers had to take. They fought to be recognised by their counterparts and gain equal status.
Today we mark this 40 years anniversary as a celebration of those women and all women in the movement today.
“The introduction of women to Surf Life Saving 40 years ago saved the organisation. They brought common sense and a different kind of energy to the movement.”
SLSCC patron, Warren Lupica