Surf culture a key to lifesaving

Torquay Surf Lifesaving Club last week ran their annual Bronze Medallion camp with 30 eager participants.

The new members were taken from the club on a trek on Thursday to Bells Beach to learn about the surf spots, swells and culture along the Surf Coast.

Torquay Surf Lifesaving Club president Scott Tannahill saw the kids learning about the history of the iconic surf location as an imperative part of their local knowledge.

“once the kids reached Bells Beach they heard from local identity Dick Garrard who briefed the group about the history of Bells and the surf culture that has evolved from it,” Scott said.

“Dick’s father was a founding member of the Torquay Surf Lifesaving Club so it was great to have him along.

“It was definitely a very special night. The group learnt the ways of the surf and where the swell came from, helping them to become better volunteer lifesavers.”

Torquay and Jan Juc Surf Lifesaving Clubs will have patrolled beaches seven days a week, with paid lifeguards taking watch during the working week through January, while volunteers will be patrolling over the weekends until Easter Monday.