Ballina teen to voice concerns and promote surf lifesaving in youth group

BALLINA teenager Kayden Muller will have the chance to advocate for beach safety and issues affecting clubs in the region after being named in the Surf Life Saving Australia Young Leaders Working Group.

It is a rare distinction with Kayden the only representative from the Far North Coast branch in the group of 16.

It is designed to give a voice to youth members concerns, views, and ideas to help them shape the future of surf life saving.

Kayden joined the Ballina Surf Life Saving Club when he was six and has competed in numerous Australian youth championship events.

He was the Far North Coast junior lifesaver of the year in 2023 and has a passion for improving local awareness around surf safety.

“It is fantastic that young voices are involved in the design and refining of initiatives which impact us,” group chair Sophie Carne said.

“In the two years I have been working with the group, we have covered topics from youth mental health to sun safety, and from extending youth development opportunities to navigating the recent under-16 social media ban.

“We have also counselled Surf Life Saving Australia on integrating with schools, reaching a broader audience and how to best run courses and carnivals for young people.”

Kayden has impressed Ballina club members and selection panels with his knowledge on beach safety and consistent performances at state and national events.

He has also been recognised for his community efforts as a patrol member.

Members of the young leaders group will be involved in decision-making and events for the next two years.

The group also collaborates with sun safety groups including the Cancer Council and charities.