Thompson becomes new Jan Juc SLSC president

THE Jan Juc Surf Life Saving Club has announced an exciting new board for the 2022/23 season, including incoming president Brett ‘Thomo’ Thompson.

Thompson headlines a host of changes to the club’s board structure which were decided on at last month’s AGM, signalising the handover and start of a new surf life saving season.

Incoming president Brett Thompson brings a lifetime of ‘clubbie’ experience to Jan Juc, having been a long-term member of the club since being a young nipper at Jan Juc in 1984.

Thompson and dog Sunny at the recently renovated Jan Juc Surf Life Saving Club. Photo: NATHAN RIVALLAND

Thompson has taken on a host of roles during his time at the Jan Juc, while also competing in Australian and state league titles in the surfboats, where he is a sweep for several of the club boat crews at all levels.

The 30-plus year club veteran has been a patrol captain, training officer and has run the Nippers program at the club, bringing a very broad knowledge of the surf club system to his new role.

“It’s certainly an honour to be nominated as the president and to receive so much support from people right across the club to take on this role,” Thompson said.

“I really want to take our club to the next level in season 2022-23 and continue to work hard to improve our connection with our community and our members.

Thompson believes that his broad knowledge of the club will assist him in his role as president. Photo: NATHAN RIVALLAND

“While honouring our history, I want to make sure the club is in a good position moving into the future and that we can continue to be at the forefront of strong surf clubs down here on the Surf Coast.

“I strongly believe that my broad knowledge across different surf lifesaving roles, particularly at Jan Juc, will help me be a good president for the club and I really look forward to taking up this great opportunity.”

Thompson will have a strong team around him to take the club into season 2022-23, with former president and treasurer Peter Smith assuming the vice-president position, Melissa Field extending as the finance manager and Geoff ‘Rass’ Thompstone embarking on his 43rd year of being club secretary.

Jodie Reyntjes, Grace Lightfoot, Tim Watson and Kate Walsh will also oversee roles on the board, while Anita Craven and Amy Newton are the club’s newest admin team.

“We look forward to having another strong and successful season and hopefully we can continue to be a voice of positivity in the local community.”