As we prepare for another busy summer, one thing remains clear: effective lifesaving services rely on clubs working together, sharing knowledge, and operating from a common understanding of expectations and priorities.

The Lifesaving Conference 2026 brings together key operational leaders from across South Australia to discuss the challenges and opportunities ahead, hear the latest updates from Surf Life Saving South Australia, and strengthen the capability of our lifesaving network.

This conference is designed to ensure all clubs are informed, prepared and aligned before the season begins. Through presentations, workshops and discussion forums, participants will gain practical insights and have the opportunity to contribute to the future direction of lifesaving service delivery across the state.

·       Preparing for summer: patrol readiness, resource planning and service delivery expectations.

·       Emergency response, major incident management and interoperability updates.

·       State Operations Centre developments and enhancements to operational communications.

·       Sharing best practice in patrol operations, risk management and member wellbeing.

·       Strengthening Club Emergency Response Team capability and readiness across the state.

·       Coastal safety initiatives, emerging risks and operational challenges facing clubs.

·       New recognition and reward initiatives designed to celebrate the contribution of our members.

·       Introduction of enhanced post-incident support pathways to better support the health and wellbeing of our volunteers.

·       Practical opportunities to collaborate, share experiences and learn from operational leaders across the movement.

·       Ensuring clubs are aligned, informed and ready to deliver a consistent and effective lifesaving service throughout the season.

Date: Saturday 12 September 2026

Time: 9:00am –1:00pm, includes a lunch with the EOG ‘open day’ afterwards.

Venue: Surf Central, 2 Barcoo Road, West Beach SA

Parking: Free onsite parking

The conference is designed for members responsible for leading and delivering lifesaving services within their club.

Recommended attendees include:

• Club Captains

• Patrol Captains

• Lifesaving Officers

• Club Emergency Response Team members

• Duty Officers

• Operational leaders and coordinators

• Any member involved in the planning, delivery or support of club lifesaving services

Whether you are an experienced operational leader or stepping into a new role this season, the conference will provide valuable information, practical tools and connections to help support your club's success.

To secure your place, please register via the link below as soon as possible. Registrations will remain open until capacity is reached.

This section will be updated closer to the event. Please check back regularly for the latest conference information.

Before You Arrive

• Catering will be provided throughout the morning. Please advise any dietary requirements when registering.

• Conference materials and session information will be provided on the day.

• Smart casual attire is recommended. Club apparel is encouraged to help showcase and celebrate your club’s identity.

• Please bring a mobile device or tablet if available, as some sessions will include interactive activities and online resources.

• Clubs are strongly encouraged to send multiple representatives to ensure key information is shared effectively and can be implemented locally.