Brett “Thomo” Thompson awarded highest honour at Jan Juc SLSC

JAN JUC residents who have lived in the area for some time have most likely had a friendly encounter with Brett Thompson.

The gregarious father of three grew up in Bellbrae before moving to Jan Juc and joining the local surf club’s nippers program at age nine.

Nearly four decades later, Brett, best known as Thomo, remains heavily involved in the Jan Juc Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) as both a board member and competitor.

On Sunday Brett was awarded life membership at the club’s 57th Annual General Meeting. Humbled to have received the acknowledgement, Brett said he considered Jan Juc SLSC a special place.

“You sort of know everyone and everyone knows you. It’s always been a local club; most people live in the area and spend a lot of time down here,” Brett, 45, said.

“You don’t do anything to get recognition. It’s sort of hard to put into words how you feel but I think it feels pretty good.”

In Brett’s life membership nomination form – which was proposed by Bill Bond – it was made clear that he was not the kind of person to volunteer his time for the accolades, but his long-list of achievements proved too commendable to ignore.

Jan Juc SLSC president Aaron Green said Brett had held numerous leadership roles from an early age including patrol captain, board and ski manager, gear steward, training officer, competition manager, competition team manager, nippers manager and juniors manager.

He also remains active in the competition ranks, engaging in swim, board, ski, beach flag, iron and sweeping surf boat events for the club.

“Thomo’s commitment to the club has been nothing short of outstanding. Nothing is ever too difficult, and his friendship and inclusive attitude always makes people feel welcome,” Aaron said.

“In my time as president, Thomo’s support has been fantastic and certainly made my role a lot easier. You know this is not just a club to him, it’s his home.”

Brett was also lauded for his capacity in surf education, sponsorship efforts, and contribution to club infrastructure.

The Jan Juc SLSC clubhouse is currently under construction. It is estimated to be completed by March.