Torquay celebrates first Pink Patrol in club’s history

TORQUAY SLSC celebrated Pink Patrol for the first time in its 77-year history on Saturday, commencing the day with a Ladies Luncheon.

Generations of members made their way to Torquay SLSC to celebrate and acknowledge the efforts women have made to lifesaving over the years.

“The day was a huge success,” club president Tiffany Quinlan said.

“The bringing together of multiple generations from many disciplines to share stories was enlightening and fun for all.”

The Ladies Luncheon served as a fundraiser for the club’s redevelopment, while $5 from every ticket sold was donated to the Breast Cancer Awareness Network.

The luncheon provided an opportunity to reflect upon and give thanks to the female change-makers of Torquay SLSC’s past.

Tokyo Olympian in kayaking, Shannon Reynolds, who is new to Torquay SLSC, was one of several special speakers to attend the luncheon.

Other speakers included Dr Anne Waterhouse, who was kind enough to share her experiences of her regular Antarctica trips and work in Indigenous communities.

Attendees also heard from Life Member Jan King and her daughter Penny Altman, Torquay SLSC’s longest serving volunteer patroller.

Afterwards, the first Pink Patrol involved current active members, both women and male champions of change.

The patrol gave the club an opportunity to be seen in public as a symbol of unity and a sign of inclusive times to come.

“To see many ladies who are long term members chatting to some of our youth demonstrates the ability of a surf club to create a community where everyone has a place,” Ms Quinlan added.

“I felt both honoured and humbled to be in a room of so many women who are all remarkable in their own way.”

Other Surf Coast clubs involved in the Pink Patrol on Saturday at their respected beaches included Lorne and Fairhaven.