Support us

Surf Life Saving SA is able to keep South Australians safe at the beach every year through the outstanding efforts of our committed volunteers.

Volunteers are responsible for many of our critical services, from the recognisable red and yellow beach patrols to the behind-the-scenes services like Surfcom. None of this is possible without your support!

Your support helps us to keep saving lives. There are many ways you can support Surf Life Saving SA to keep providing critical beach safety services, including regular donations, workplace giving, or getting involved with one of our Fundraising Events or Appeals. 

Your Impact

Every dollar you donate to Surf Life Saving SA has a real impact. Your generosity will help our clubs to buy necessary equipment for rescue operations, undertake critical training and keep the red and yellow flags flying on our beaches. 

What our volunteers do…

Patrols 

Each of our affiliated clubs performs patrols every Saturday, Sunday, public holiday and select “hot weather” days between October and April each year. Patrols are there to assist in rescues, provide first aid and water safety information. Patrols are the backbone of beach safety. They have been responsible for saving hundreds of lives and preventing thousands of injuries at the beach each year. 

Surfcom

Surfcom is our behind-the-scenes team of heroes. Based at the Surf Central Headquarters, it is the central communication point for all of our clubs and support groups. Surveillance and radio communications enable quick, efficient and straightforward means of obtaining assistance, equipment or information during a life-saving operation. Surfcom also provides general information to all lifesaving services, records key information and liaises with other emergency services during rescue operations.

Inflatable Rescue Boats

Inflatable Rescue Boats (IRB’s) are an essential part of rescue operations. These distinctive boats are affectionately nicknamed by our crews as ‘rubber duckies’ and are often seen in the water on busy days. They are owned and deployed by the clubs and are inflated, ready to go during patrols,  used for surveillance purposes, or perform rescues in powerful surf. 

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter

The Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service provides essential patrol, rescue and preventative measure strategies to South Australian beach-goers. Due to the generous support provided by Westpac, a dedicated helicopter concentrates on patrolling South Australia's coastline, providing comfort and security to thousands of beach visitors. The South Australian Government is also a key supporter of the service, providing support funding to extend the hours of operation during in-demand periods.

Jet Rescue Boats & Rescue Water Craft (Jet-Skis)

Water patrols are a critical part of beach safety. Our volunteer lifesavers use Jet Rescue Boats (JRB) and Rescue Water Craft, more commonly known as Jet Skis, to undertake water patrols and perform search and rescue operations. 

Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Drones

Our fleet of rescue drones has enabled Surf Life Saving SA to increase its aerial patrol capability in recent years. Specially trained and accredited volunteers pilot our drones to help us investigate shark sightings and locate people who are in danger or high-risk situations. 

Community Programs

Each year volunteers run beach safety programs for our community to ensure our beaches are safe places for everyone. Surf Life Saving SA believes that everyone should have an opportunity to learn how to enjoy our beaches safely. We are committed to providing programs for children, the elderly, indigenous Australians and new arrivals.