Silver Medallion Patrol Captain Courses 2026

Member EducationCircular
Written By Alicia Lintern

The Silver Medallion Patrol Captain Course is a two-day program designed to prepare members to confidently lead beach patrols and manage incidents as a Surf Life Saving Patrol Captain.

Using practical, scenario-based training, participants develop the leadership, communication and decision-making skills required to coordinate patrol teams, manage resources and respond effectively to a range of incidents.

"It plays a crucial role in standardising the emergency response by local patrols, ensuring that our procedures are consistent and effective across the State. I strongly encourage all eligible members to consider enrolling in future sessions," says Sean Faulkner, SLSSA Lifesaving & Emergency Operations Manager.

With the 2026/27 patrol season approaching, now is an ideal time for clubs to support the development of future Patrol Captains. Investing in members through this course strengthens patrol leadership, enhances operational capability and helps ensure South Australian beachgoers continue to receive the highest standard of lifesaving service.

Additional Opportunity for Probationary Trainers/Facilitators

This course also provides an opportunity for members to commence their Probationary Trainer or Facilitator Silver Medallion Patrol Captain award. Whether you are a new Probationary Trainer or an experienced trainer or facilitator looking to add the Silver Medallion Patrol Captain award to your scope of delivery, you are encouraged to express your interest via the Application Form.

Application form

COURSE DETAILS

  • By the end of this course, you should be able to:

    • Know the role and responsibilities of a patrol captain including lead patrol set up and pack down, and managing the beach

    • Apply leadership techniques to manage multiple incidents as a patrol captain

    • Apply the principles of effective leadership to motivate and engage team members

    • Coordinate the response to minor and major incidents including working with multi-agencies

    • Effectively communicate in difficult situations, including managing inappropriate public behaviour

    • Action operational risk and hazard management

    • Effectively manage a patrol team including the delegation of operational tasks

    • Conduct effective briefing and de-briefing, including follow-up.

  • The Patrol Captain course is aimed at those who are current Patrol Captains, Vice Patrol Captains or those who are looking to step into these roles in the near future.

  • Requirements

    • Minimum 18 years old

    • Hold a SLSA Bronze Medallion or have held a SLSA Bronze Medallion and currently hold a patrolling award

    • Have 2 years patrolling experience

    Pre-Requisites

    • Completed the eLearning, including online assessments

    • Completed and saved the leadership workbook found within eLearning

    • Downloaded the SLSSA Operations app and have access to the Surf Risk Rating

    • Face to face training completed over 2 full days.

    • Day one is theory based and day two is practical scenarios

    • eLearning component (6-8 hours) including online assessments

    Assessment Requirements

    • Online eLearning Assessment

    • Practical Assessment

  • Course is free for all members

COURSE DATES & LOCATIONS

 APPLICATION PROCESS

  • Each course is limited to 12 candidates and therefore a selection process is in place.

  • Successful applications will be based on the quality of the application and support from your Club Chief Instructor or Club Captain.  

  • If interested, please submit an application via the link below:

Application form

Key Dates

  • Applications close: Sunday 9th August

  • Club Approvals close: 10th August

  • Notification of Selection: By 14th August

  • eLearning due: Friday 21st August

Pathway Opportunities

Gaining this award is recommended for those considering senior lifesaving opportunities such as:

  • Patrol Captain or Club Captain at your club

  • Duty Officer within the SLSSA Emergency Operations Group (EOG)

More Information

Any questions, please contact the Member Education Team via:

E: member.ed@surflifesavingsa.com.au | P: 08 8354 6900.

Alicia Lintern
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