Pink Zinc Patrol powers on at Ocean Grove

THE Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club hosted its eighth annual Pink Zinc Patrol to celebrate the contribution women and girls make to the sport of surf life saving.

The patrol shines a light on female inclusion and participation in the sport with Saturday’s patrol showcasing the positive role models helping empower future generations of women and girls to confidently pursue diverse opportunities in lifesaving and aquatics.

Labor MP Libby Coker and Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant MP were on hand to congratulate the patrol members on Saturday and praised them for their commitment to being powerful leaders in their community.

“I congratulate all the amazing women who have volunteered for surf patrols over the summer to keep people safe. The surf club should continue to be celebrated for their role in encouraging young women to take on leadership roles,” Ms Coker said.

Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club president Lyndie Freestone said the eighth annual event was embraced by all involved.

“There were definitely some important objectives of the patrol event and we were so glad to have Libby Coker and Alison Marchant there as fellow strong women’s role models,” Mrs Freestone said.

“It’s really about celebrating women in sport and women in life saving and their leadership capacity… it’s all come a long way since 1980 when women could first be lifesavers.

“Our first four women’s bronzies (bronze medallion recipients) graduated in the summer of 80/81 and they really led the way for change.

“The support from all members including the male members was fantastic back then and continues to be today as the event grows.”

Life Saving Victoria facilitates the Pink Zinc Patrol days to celebrate women and their contribution to surf life saving.