Surf club pays tribute to stalwart who steered teams to world championships

BYRON Bay Surf Life Saving Club has paid tribute to Bert Batson, who was a key driver for junior development with his spirit for adventure taking him around the world on a yacht he built by himself.

Batson died at the age of 85 after a short illness and has been remembered for his five decades involved at the surf club, which saw it win world championships in Dragon Boat racing.

He was also instrumental in developing water safety standards for the nipper program.

He played a pivotal role in introducing inflatable rescue boats (IRBs) for water safety, becoming part of the Far North Coast Branch’s first IRB training squad.

Together with his close friend Sam Gilmore, Batson sponsored the first Branch water safety IRB.

In 1986, Byron Bay Surf Club formed one of the most formidable Dragon Boat racing teams in Australia.

Batson took on the role of boat sweep, joined by his younger brother Keith as a paddler.

Under his leadership, the team were Australian and world champions between 1988 and 1992 with victories in New Zealand, Germany, the US, China, Singapore and Japan.

 

“He was a wonderful husband to Christine for 61 years and a very special father and grandfather to six kids who adored him,” a family spokesperson said.

“We are so sad but grateful he lived a full life – including circumnavigating the world in his yacht he built himself between 2000 and 2002.”

While having international success, he remained committed to Byron Bay Surf Club’s surf sports.

He sponsored key equipment such as the Gibbons Double Ski, which became iconic in the club’s racing history.

At the NSW State Surf Life Saving Titles at Swansea Belmont Beach, competitors on his sponsored double ski won five medals.

In 2001, he was awarded life membership in recognition of his dedicated service and immeasurable contribution to the surf club.

“Bert’s support for the club was unwavering,” clubmate Max Tutt said.

“He sponsored and travelled with Byron Bay competitors to major surf carnivals across the country, helping build what became one of Australia’s most successful country surf clubs.

“Bert’s loyalty was extended further when supporting and sharing the achievements of his children and grandchildren wearing the red, white and blue cap.

“Bert was very proud to see his family committed and actively involved in the club.

“A legacy of leadership, genuine support and loyalty which continues to shape the Byron Bay surf club.”