Portsea Lifesaving Camp

In Week 8 we took 31 Lifesaving students down to Portsea Surf Lifesaving Club (SLSC) where students trained for and qualified for their Surf Rescue Certificates and Bronze Medallions.  These  awards qualify them to become active patrolling members.  Although accommodation and theory work was based at the new Portsea SLSC on the Back Beach, water sessions were based in the old Quarantine station at Point Nepean National Park.

The camp was action packed.  Students were up before 6.00am every day for a morning workout/walk before breakfast.  Daily morning session spent at Quarantine Station provided a beautiful back drop for all our practical sessions.  At Quarantine Station students trained extensively in tube rescues, board rescues, patient assessment and board paddling techniques.  There was also opportunity for students to practice crewing in the Inflatable Rescue Boat (main rescue tool used on patrols).

Afternoons were spent at the club where we would have lunch and practice theory, first aid scenarios, defib and surf awareness.  Students were challenged in the  evenings with a nightly quiz using different focuses each day.  Points gained from the quiz contributed to a weekly overall  team tally.

On the Thursday we had our big “Carnival Day” where students competed in water events and beach events that would be run at regular carnivals as well as some other “fun activities” including “Brian”, “Treasure Hunter”, “Survivor”, “Tugga” and many more.  This competition was hotly contested with points gained being vital for team tallies.

On the final day we announced our winning team for the week which included Abbey Reeves, Jyder Walker and Henry Code led by Bella Hodges.  We also announced the male MVP: Oscar Menzies (for his determination and leadership} and female MVPs: Emma Harrison {for her calming leadership} and Sienna Robson {for her “Queen of the Cold” bravery and guidance for younger lifesavers}.  

Congratulations to all students who attended the camp in what was an exhausting and challenging week for everyone.  We are excited for the students/lifesavers who completed their qualifications to begin or continue their patrolling experience at Portsea Back Beach throughout the summer.  What a great opportunity to give back to the community. "

Mr James Cameron

Lifesaving Program Coordinator