Mission Beach SLSC was proud to host the Mission Beach Surf Carnival
6-7th  August and welcome over 190 Competitors back to Mission Beach for the first Surf Carnival in many years.  Teams travelled from Port Douglas SLSC in the north  to Townsville in the south to compete.
All our competitors did extremely well with high levels of enthusiasm and effort which was definately shown on the beach.
Our club did our region proud with a huge effort put in by our members.

Thank you to all.

Marty Westcott
JAC Mission Beach SLSC

What we do as a movement in North Queensland is incredible – however it doesn’t mean there isn’t room for improvement.  Striving for excellence in our service and the way we work together and with each other only ever makes us all stronger.
So when the mid-season membership statistics were released it was disappointing to see that our membership across all 5 clubs had decreased – in both active (patrolling) members and juniors.  But this also reminds us of the great opportunity we have to grow and our obligations to each other, and the public, as members of Surf Life Saving; we are only as strong as our members – you!
With the privilege of being part of our great movement not only comes opportunity but also obligations.  Wherever you are and whatever you do, you are always part of the great red and yellow family.  We need to always treat others with respect – respecting each others individualism, time, abilities, effort and contribution.  Whilst our expectations may be great – the rewards of being part of Surf Life Saving are greater.
And whilst many of you take on multiple roles within your clubs, branch and state,  we all have a pivotal role to play as Surf Life Saving Ambassadors.  We agree to, and represent the values of Surf Life Saving – the 3^rd most trusted brand in Australia!  We also know that you are our best avenue for referral to new members – in fact over 90% of our new members come from referral!  That’s almost 1000 potential recruitment officers in North Queensland alone.
So I encourage you all to get engaged, take advantage of courses, training and development opportunities, and encourage others to join in the fun.
If you don’t know where to start, what role might fit your skills sets best, or what new opportunities await you, please contact your Club Training Officer or a member of your Club Executive.
 
The SLSQ State Conference was held recently in Brisbane, with a very strong theme of changing and adapting.  I can assure you that you have some very respected and committed ambassadors in your clubs and the North Queensland Branch board who are committed not only to responding to feedback from clubs and members to improve your experience and our lifesaving services, but also making change for good.  Each of the 5 clubs in the North Qld Branch had at least 2 representatives attending the conference sessions, as well as Regional Staff and they were networking, learning and brainstorming ways to help you, our members and make our clubs stronger and sustainable, now and into the future.
Please watch for the details on how you can access some of the highlights from the conference sessions in the North Queensland Conference ‘Take Homes’ program, that will be delivered by our North Queensland Branch team, led by Scott Pearson, our Director of Administration.  There is lots of good information that will not only help you in your role, but also better understand as a member, the innovations and changes that are happening in your movement.
I also wish to recognise all our North Queensland Branch award winners who went on to represent us at the State Awards of Excellence – we are so proud of you all.  Huge Congratulations to Kye Yeabsley, Queensland U18 Lifesaver of the Year from Cairns SLSC who is also our North Queensland and North Barrier Branch Lifesaving Services Supervisor.  Jon Murray, fondly known to as ‘Muzza’ is our Queensland Lifeguard of the Year!  Apart from being recognised for his outstanding skills and professionalism in delivering Lifeguard Services Jon has also recently taken on the role of Deputy Director of Lifesaving for the North Queensland Branch.
Thanks as always for everything you do.
Take care of yourselves and each other.
 
Rachael Wynberg
President
 

Wind and Rain was the weather forecast and that’s what we got!  Possibly the wettest Etty Bay Carnival anyone can remember, however it was great to see so many competitors, officials and water safety all turn up to get the job done.

The positive effect from the unfavourable weather was the arrival of some huge waves.  While many were relishing the opportunity to catch a wave and hone their surf skills, there was some uncertainty down in the U8 – U10 arena.  It was great to see so many of the younger competitors up to the challenge.
I’m sure there will be many memories and stories told of the battles won and lost in the surf at Etty Bay!
 
Thanks
Shayne Cini
Etty Bay SLSC President