ENTRY LEVEL PATROL QUALIFICATIONS
Explore the five opportunities in entry level patrol qualifications.
Note: To be able to patrol, you need either a combination of Observer's Award and First Aid, a combination of Observer's Award and Radio Operator Award, a Surf Rescue Certificate, or a Bronze Medallion
First Aid
What is it?
The Provide First Aid course aims to equip individuals with the essential knowledge and practical skills necessary to handle emergency situations and provide critical care until professional medical assistance arrives. Earning a First Aid certificate, which includes gaining your Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation accreditation, is a crucial step in Surf Life Saving, as it builds confidence and the ability to manage injuries, respond effectively in emergencies, and provide vital support to your team when it matters most.
Prerequisites:
Minimum age of 14
Desirable skills:
Approachable and friendly
Calm in emergency situations
Will I need to get wet? No!
observers Award
What is it?
Not ready to enter the water yet? This course is for you! The Observers Award course is designed to build your understanding of surf awareness and teach you how to read ocean conditions, recognise potential risks and hazards, while also identifying individuals who may be in danger in the surf. This course allows you to contribute by learning crucial skills in ocean observation and safety - all from the shore.
Prerequisites:
Minimum age of 13
Desirable skills:
Approachable and friendly
Calm in emergency situations
Will I need to get wet? No!
Radio Operator Award
What is it?
Become a crucial part of the Surf Life Saving team as a Radio Operator, where you'll play a key role in beach safety by managing communications between patrols, emergency services, and support crews. You'll use essential communication tools to help coordinate rescues and ensure rapid, effective responses to incidents. The Radio Operators Award course equips you with the skills to confidently manage radio communications - keeping you dry but fully in the action as the calm, clear voice behind every successful response.
Prerequisites:
Minimum age of 13
Desirable skills:
Approachable and friendly
Calm in emergency situations
Will I need to get wet? No!
Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC)
What is it?
The Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC) is the first step into Surf Life Saving; ideal for parents wanting to start their journey, individuals new to Surf Life Saving, or teens continuing from Nippers. This course is the entry into Surf Life Saving, where you’ll learn vital skills in surf awareness, rescues, CPR, and communication. The course prepares you to join a patrol team or support at carnivals and training sessions. It's a great way to get involved, stay active, and make a real impact on the beach.
Prerequisites:
Minimum age of 13
Be able to complete an unaided swim of 200m in less than 5 minutes
Desirable skills:
Approachable and friendly
Calm in emergency situations
Confident in and around water
Able to work in a team environment
Will I need to get wet? Yes!
Bronze Medallion
What is it?
Are you ready to make a real difference on the beach, build life-saving skills, and become part of an iconic Australian movement? The Bronze Medallion is your launch pad into the world of Surf Life Saving - and it’s more than just a qualification. It’s the start of something bigger. This nationally recognised course provides you with the skills and knowledge related to surf awareness, aquatic rescue operations, radio operations, emergency care, and Surf Life Saving patrol operations. Through this award, you will also gain your Certificate II in Public Safety (Aquatic Rescue) (PUA20119) - an official qualification that’s recognised Australia-wide.
The Bronze Medallion builds on the Surf Rescue Certificate and is the essential stepping stone for anyone wanting to take on more responsibility in their Surf Life Saving Club. It unlocks pathways to advanced roles, including:
IRB Crew & Driver
First Aid & Advanced Resuscitation
Silver Medallion Aquatic Rescue
Patrol Captain & Leadership Roles
Trainer, Assessor, or Facilitator
Sport Participation
Whether you want to become a rescue expert, take charge as a patrol leader, or eventually train the next generation of lifesavers, it all begins with the Bronze Medallion.
Prerequisites:
Minimum age of 14
Be able to complete an unaided swim of 400m in less than 9 minutes
Desirable skills:
Approachable and friendly
Calm in emergency situations
Confident in and around water
Able to work in a team environment
Will I need to get wet? Yes!
Ready to start your journey?
Find a club
Click here to find a club near you!
Contact us
If you have any further inquiries, please feel free to reach out to us via slssa.reception@surflifesavingsa.com.au or by calling 8354 6900 during office hours.