Listed below are the primary membership categories available for members. For more information relating to membership categories, please refer to the SLSA Regulations as well as your local club as the membership categories may vary.

Nippers (Junior Activities)

Participants aged 5-13 years – Junior activities, better known as ‘Nippers’, is an activity-based program designed to educate young children about surf safety and awareness. The Nipper program offers participants the opportunity to meet new friends whilst taking part in activities to develop skills in lifesaving, surf safety, surf sports, personal development and leadership.
The Nippers program is held in most surf clubs during the summer period on Sunday mornings. The season usually starts in October after school holidays and lasts until the Easter school holidays.

Cadets (Youth)

You can join Surf Life Saving as a Cadet and have a great time mixing with other teenagers. You can begin by gaining your Surf Rescue Certificate, which enables you to work as a member of a team of lifesavers. As well as being able to spend time on the beach, you will have the opportunity to make new friends that will stay with you for life.

Active (15-18 years)

As an Active member, you can be involved in all areas of Surf Life Saving, including patrol duties. Once you are a member, you will gain your Bronze Medallion and be taught skills that will enable you to become a patrolling lifesaver on the beach. Remember, further qualifications and training opportunities are always available for those who wish to expand their skill set.

Active (18+ years)

Participants aged 18+ years, who want to be patrolling life savers – You can come through the junior ranks to become an active surf lifesaver, or you can join as an adult of any age. Active members are given the opportunity to gain qualifications and skills such as the Bronze Medallion, Advanced Resuscitation Certificate and many more. Once qualified with the Bronze Medallion, you will have the skills and experience to patrol at the beach. Further qualifications and training opportunities are always available for those who wish to expand their skill set.

Award

Participants who want to be involved in the surf club in a qualified or position holding capacity – Award Members play a vital role in keeping surf life saving operating smoothly at a club level. Many of our Award Members are people who have chosen to work in important support roles, such as radio operations, first aid and resuscitation,

Associate                                                                                                                                

Participants who want to be involved in the surf club but not necessarily patrol on the beach. As an Associate Member you will meet adults who are happy to help out when they have the time, and others who have specific skills they wish to contribute. As an Associate Member, you’re not required to hold a surf life saving qualification- so if you prefer to be out of the surf rather than in it, this is a great way for you to be involved.