2026 Women in powercraft

For the first time ever, the Women in Powercraft program is running both IRB Crew and Silver Medallion IRB Driver courses. Participants will learn to operate this vital rescue craft, used in routine patrols, water safety, and Search and Rescue (SAR) operations.

Women currently make up just 16% of IRB Drivers nationally, and this program is helping change that. Build your skills, gain qualifications, and grow your confidence in a supportive, inclusive environment – proudly supported by the Geoffrey Evans Trust.

• Application Process & Key Dates

  Due to the nature of the course there will be a limited number of places available. Therefore, there is no guarantee that all members who apply will be able to participate.

  • Selections will occur as applications are received.  

  • Those who are not successful will be added to the waitlist for future courses.

  Registrations for the SLSSA Women in Powercraft Program have now closed. If you would like to join the waitlist in case any places become available, please apply.

• Who Is The Program For?

  The Women in Powercraft program supports women aged 15–25 who are financial members of Surf Life Saving and meet the course eligibility criteria. As part of our commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion, all female-identifying and non-binary members are welcome to participate.

   While funding is prioritised for members aged 15–25, we strongly encourage women outside this age group to apply. We are committed to being flexible and will work with eligible applicants where possible to support their participation.

• Course Eligibility

  All participants must:

  • Be a current financial surf lifesaving member for the 2025–26 season

  • Hold a current Bronze Medallion

  • Have club endorsement to attend

  • Commit fully to the program, including online pre-learning

  Course 1 - IRB Crew participants must:

  • Be at least 15 years old

  Course 2 - Silver Medallion IRB Driver participants must:
  

  • Hold a current SLSA IRB Crew qualification

  • Hold a current SA Boat Licence

  • Be at least 17 years old

  Assessment

  An assessment is scheduled for the final day of the course. However, given the scope and intensity of the program, not all participants may be ready for assessment at that time. Where this is the case, trainers will discuss your progress with you during the course and, if appropriate, recommend undertaking assessment at a later date. Trainers will also work with you and your club to identify a suitable mentor to support further development following the program.

• Training Details & Resources

  COURSE 1: IRB CREW DATES:

  2026 EASTER Long Weekend - Friday 3 April - Monday 6 April, 9am - 1.30pm

  COURSE 2: SILVER MEDALLION IRB DRIVER DATES:

  Weekend 1 - 2026 EASTER Long Weekend - Friday 3 April - Monday 6 April, 9am - 1.30pm

  Weekend 2 - Saturday 25 April - Sunday 26 April, 9am - 1.30pm

  LOCATION:

  The primary training location is Port Elliot SLSC.

  From time to time, surf conditions at our primary training location may be unsuitable or unsafe. In such cases, the training team may relocate the group to a nearby beach or surf club to ensure safe and productive training.

  IRB Driver Assessment Location -Sunday 26 April, at Goolwa SLSC

  COST: $80

  This will include access to all training, catering each day and a Women in Powercraft Hoodie.

  REQUIREMENTS:

  • Commitment to all scheduled sessions is essential for participation

  • Complete the online eLearning which will be provided to those who are successful.

  GEAR & EQUIPMENT

  Participants should come prepared with:

  • An SLSA approved lifejacket

  • Helmet

  • Adequate warm clothing

  Clubs: If there is high demand for the program, SLSSA may ask clubs to provide additional equipment.

  TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION EXPENSES

  Regional club members may be eligible for reimbursement of accommodation and travel expenses. For more information, please reach out to the Member Education Team.

  RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATION

  Participants are responsible for arranging their own accommodation for the weekend. To make this easier, a list of recommended places to stay will be provided in the acceptance/information booklet.

  MORE INFORMATION

  Email: member.ed@surflifesavingsa.com.au

• Under 18 Participants

  Duty of Care
  Surf Life Saving SA welcomes members under 18 to fully participate in the training program. While we provide supervision during all scheduled training sessions, responsibility for participants outside these times, including overnight, remains with parents or guardians.

  To ensure safety and care, under 18 participants must be signed in and signed out by a parent or guardian each day. This allows everyone to enjoy the program with confidence, knowing our young members are supported both on and off the water.

  Travel
  From time to time, surf conditions at our primary training location may be unsuitable or unsafe. In such cases, the training team may relocate the group to a nearby beach or surf club to ensure safe and productive training.

  Transport may be provided by:

  • Club Trainers

  • Approved support drivers

  • Parents/guardians

  Travel will be within the local area and only when necessary due to surf, weather, or safety conditions.