ANNUAL REPORT
2023/24
BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB
117TH ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2023/24
BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB
CONTENTS
CONTENTS
OUR MISSION
OFFICE BEARERS 2023/24
PATRON’S REPORT
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
DEPUTY PRESIDENT’S REPORT
10
LIFE MEMBERS
12
LIFE MEMBERSHIP 2023/24
14
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
16
CLUB AWARDS
16
SURF LIFESAVING SYDNEY AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE
18
LIFESAVING
22
LIFESAVING STATISTICS
22
LIFESAVING REPORT
23
CAPTAIN OF LIFESAVING
24
LIFESAVING OPERATIONS
25
DESTINATION PATROL
26
IRB REPORT
27
2023/24 PATROLS
28
PATROL AND NATIONAL SERVICE AWARDS
34
TOP PATROLHOURS
36
EDUCATION
38
EDUCATION REPORT
38
2023/24 BRONZE MEDALLION AND SRC COURSES
40
BRANCH AWARDS SUMMARY 2023/24
42
AWARD PARTICIPANTS
43
SURF SPORTS
46
SURF SPORTS REPORT
46
SWIM CAPTAIN’S REPORT
48
BOARD CAPTAIN’S REPORT
49
SKI CAPTAIN’S REPORT
50
BEACH EVENTS REPORT
51
BOARD RIDING REPORT
52
LIFESAVING EVENTS REPORT
53
POOL RESCUE REPORT
54
COACHES REPORT
55
MASTERS REPORT
56
STAN AND BASIL MCDONALD RELAY
57
THE 7TH ANNUAL CLUBBIE CLASSIC
58
SUNDAY SURF RACE
59
SURF RACE RESULTS 2023/24
60
CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS RESULTS 2023/24
62
CHAMPIONSHIPS REPORT
64
SURF SPORTS RESULTS 2023/24
65
JUNIOR ACTIVITIES
74
JUNIOR ACTIVITIES REPORT
74
NIPPER AWARDS
75
BONDI NIPPERS COMPETITION RESULTS 2023/24
76
JUNIOR COMPETITION COACH’S REPORT
78
NIPPERS AGE MANAGER REPORT
79
NIPPERS (JUNIORS) CAPTAIN’S REPORT
82
BONDI DIPPERS
83
MARKETING AND SPONSORSHIP
84
MARKETING AND SPONSORSHIP
84
COMMUNICATIONS REPORT
86
SPONSORS 2023/24
87
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS, GRANTS AND DONATIONS
88
COMMUNITY
90
CLUB CHAPLAIN’S REPORT
90
NSW GOVERNMENT BLUE PLAQUE
91
LOVE SQUAD
92
BONDI EARLY MORNING SWIMMERS REPORT
93
CITY FORD SYDNEY BONDI BLUE WATER CHALLENGE
94
SILVER SALTIES
95
THE ANNUAL VETERANS DAY LUNCH
96
LEGENDS LUNCH
97
YELLOW BOARDS
98
PINK PATROL
99
RAINBOW BEACHES
100
SWIM SISTERS
101
WELLBEING PATROL
102
COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH
103
IN MEMORIAM
104
ADMINISTRATION
110
ADMINISTRATION REPORT
110
BOARD OF MANAGEMENT ATTENDANCE
111
MEMBER SERVICES
112
BUILDING COMMITTEE REPORT
113
GYM REPORT
114
ARCHIVES REPORT
114
10 YEAR MEMBERSHIP SUMMARY
116
ALL MEMBERS 2023/24
117
FINANCE
126
FINANCE REPORT
126
NOTICE OF THE 117TH AGM
152
EDITORS NOTES
154
117TH ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2023/24
OUR MISSION
Membership and Lifesaving 2023/24
Safety Outcomes
Key Achievements
1,566
Members
356
New Members
424
Nippers
377
Rescues
14,780
Preventative Actions
277
First Aid Treatments
120
Bronze Medallions
886
Awards
1st Place
2023 NSW Masters Pool Rescue Championships
2023 Australian Masters Pool Rescue Championships
2024 SLSS Branch Lifesaving Championships
2024 NSW Masters Overall Championships
2024 Australian Masters Surf Life Saving Championships
Sydney Branch Surf Lifesaving Club of the Year
Sydney Branch Surf Lifesaver of the Year
Sydney Branch Junior Lifesaver of the Year
22,314
Total Hours Patrolled
34
Average Hours Per Lifesaver
NO LIVES LOST
BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB
OFFICE BEARERS
2023/24
BOARD OF MANAGEMENT
President
Brent Jackson
Deputy President
Felicity MacArthur
Director of Administration
Gino Farina
Director of Finance
Thomas Wetula
Director of Lifesaving
Simon Smith
Director of Education
Mason Kemeny
Director of Surf Sports
Dori Miller
Director of Junior Activities
Liz Webb
Director of Marketing and Sponsorship
Brett Pattinson
CLUB PATRON
Cyril Baldock
BOARD OF ADMINISTRATION
Deputy Director of Administration
Garret O’Connor
Building Committee
Garret O’Connor
Honorary Legal Officer
Stephen McKenzie
IT Manager
Leo Hyde
Registrar
Louise Santos*
Facilities Manager
Patrick Moore
Archives Officers
Leo Hyde & Peter Quartly
Gym Manager
Jean-Paul Buhagiar
Caretaker
Keiran Quartly
OH&S Officer
Leo Hyde
Club Administration
Kathryn Horner & Julie Engel
BOARD OF FINANCE
Deputy Director of Finance
David Van Gogh
BOARD OF LIFESAVING
Captain of Lifesaving
Geoff Sumner
Lifesaving Operations Manager
Laura Manuel
IRB Captain
Alexandra Ayscough
IRB Trainer
Ronny Krite
Gear Steward
Michael Delaney
First Aid Officer
Stefanie Herdeg
Radio Officer
Emily Manchee
Youth Captain
Jesse Tucek
Destination Patrol Captain
Jacob Ezrakhovich
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Deputy Director of Education
Olivier Brisse
Bronze Coordinator
Thomas Hough & Lina Lydgback
Proficiency Coordinator
Jonathan Potts
IRB Training Coordinator
Ronny Krite
Higher Awards
Marissa Saunders
BOARD OF SURF SPORTS
Deputy Director of Surf Sports
Steve Hackers
Board Captain
Noah Kaplan
Board Coach
Jackson Doolan
Swim Captain
Nick Nezval
Ski Captain
Annabelle Paterson
Ski Coach
Joel Bevilacqua
Surf Boat Captain
Kieran Milne
Beach Events Captain
Alex Porebski
Sprint Coach
Jayson Lincoln
Lifesaving Events Captains
Noah Kaplan
R&R Captain
Vacant
IRB Racing Captain
Nixy Krite
Masters Captain
Jonathan Potts
Surf Race Secretary
Peter Quartly
Ocean Events Organiser
Dori Miller
Pool Rescue Captain
Dori Miller & Nick Nezval
BOARD OF JUNIOR ACTIVITIES
Deputy Director of Junior Activities
Kate Crisp
Finance Manager
Maree Davis
Secretary
Brooke O’Mara
Program and Logistics Coordinator
Paul Wallace
Water Safety Manager
Jason Juma-Ross
Sponsorship Manager
Brett Pattinson
Competition Manager
Kate Cooke
Education Manager
Gareth Robinson
Head of Age Managers
Paul Wallace
Head of Officials
Robin Castles
Club Championship Manager
Matt Markham
Merchandise Manager
Karren Rogers
Junior Coach
Michael Walker
Gear Steward
Alex Davis
Dippers Manager
Narelle Moore
BOARD OF MARKETING AND SPONSORSHIP
Deputy Director of Marketing and Sponsorship
Vacant
Member Benefits
Vacant
Publicity Officer
Caroline Pierce
Digital Marketing Officer
Vacant
Social Secretary
Vacant
Bondi Surfer Editor
Caroline Pierce
MEMBER SERVICES
Club Chaplain
Blake Hatton
Member Services Officer
Kieran Milne
Member Protection and Welfare Officer
Andrew Every
Welcoming Officer
Anne Marie Kruk
Complaints Officer
Bruce Wynne
Diversity and Inclusion Officer
Mostyn Sumner
Mental Health and Wellbeing Champion
Catherine Wilson
Youth Development Officer
Jesse Tucek
Child Safety Coordinators
Narelle Moore & Eve Crawford
Recruitment and Retention Officer
Thomas Nguyen
Silver Salties
Rozanne Green
Swim Sisters
Catherine Rich
Legends Lunch
Grant Baldock
117TH ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2023/24
BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB
It’s been a pleasure and an honour to spend another
season as Patron of Bondi Surf Bathers Life Saving
Club. And what a good year it’s been, with all sections
performing admirably.
Education awards were as high as ever, with many
comments from examiners on the high standard of our
squads.
Patrol strength was at an all time high, not just in numbers,
but also in the quality of their Lifesaving ability, from the
Captains down to the newest Bronzies. So much so, we will
be adding another Patrol in the not so distant future.
Our Community Service has continued at a rate second
to none when compared to equivalent Clubs. Each one
of these exploits, which include Silver Salties, Swim Sisters,
Dippers program, Community Xmas lunch, and assisting
smaller Clubs like Garie and Pacific Palms, are all spelt out
in other Sections of this report.
The competition section has improved in leaps and
bounds, culminating in winning back to back Stan Mac
events, and the Australian Championships Masters’ point
score for an unprecedented seventh time straight by a
record margin.
Our presence in Open competition continues to improve,
with many semi-finalists at the Australian Championships
and a Bronze Medal that I will elaborate on further in a
moment. Thank you Dori and Nick for your dedication to
this section.
I could not help but mention forty-something-year-old
Simon Nothling, who, during the nine days of Australian
Titles competition, in both Masters and Open events,
competed in 24 events, rounding the buoys 30 times.
What an inspiration to the younger competitors (and
older ones).
One of the events that we now compete strongly in is the
Champion Lifesaver and the Patrol Lifesaving Events. The
Patrol Competition comprises of four lifesaving members
plus an IRB Crew. The four competitors compete in a surf
race, a tube race, a board race and a beach sprint, as well
as performing a random First Aid drill together. Then there
is a mass rescue, in which the IRB Crew is involved.
In my opinion, it is only a matter of time before the above
event becomes the SLSA premiership, as it is now the
leading Life Saving event. And yes, then we will be back
fighting for the pennant. You only have to consider that we
came from nowhere in 2023, to have our youngest team,
the under 17’s win the State Title, and the Bronze Medal at
Australian Titles.
PATRON’S
REPORT
Cyril Baldock OAM
Club Patron and Life Member
117TH ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2023/24
PRESIDENT’S
REPORT
I am very proud on behalf of the Club to say “no lives lost” for
Bondi this year.
Our Patrols had 380 rescues during patrol hours, which takes our
total rescue count to 28,205 since 1924. I thank Simon Smith and
his team for developing an excellent management structure for
our growing lifesaving capability. Our patrols were strong with
most patrols with over 30 lifesavers and many patrols having
multiple IRB drivers and crew. Patrol leadership from Captains
was at a level that I believe is our best in my memory; with skills
development, concern for Member safety, modifying numbers
based on risk and weather, and keeping morale high. We were
also proud to see Thomas Hough recognised as Branch Lifesaver
of the Year and Jack Castles as Junior Lifesaver of the Year. For the
fifth year, Alex MacLaughlin led the IRB section providing strong
and capable support to the patrols, Nippers, water safety and
many other Club activities. She leaves the role this year with my
thanks for building up this section.
Mason Kemeny and the Education team had all systems
running smoothly with significant numbers of Trainers for each
group which led to 120 Bronze Medallion new holders. Since
its foundation, the Club has trained 4,188 bronze holders. In
addition, the section ran a large number of ART and First Aid
update programs delivering a higher skill level. Thanks to Ronny
Krite and the IRB training team we gained ten new Drivers and 36
Crew Awards - a record level in Club history.
Dori Miller and her team delivered a seventh consecutive Masters
win at the Australian Titles - this is one of the most consistent
records of all time and recognises the countless hours she
and Nick Nezval put into team development. Dori also ran the
Bondi Blue Water Classic with many helpers - this had perfect
conditions and provided vital funds for the competition team.
The Stan Mac stayed at Bondi after a close race where the lead
changed many times, and we thank North Bondi for hosting this
important event. Nixy Krite has been building our IRB competitor
team for this year’s competition and that has also seen the
rescue of many beachgoers out of hours, including a Branch
Rescue of the Month.
Liz Webb and her team again grew the Junior Activities program
- with 29 new SRCs entering patrols, the culmination of a process
that delivers amazing lifesavers. Our Junior Members have
Brent Jackson
President
BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB
impressive skills and are core to every patrol. The Dippers program for autistic
children was also run for its fifth year.
Gino Farina took over the Admin team and worked hard to improve processes
and along with Patrick Moore delivered on a range of building maintenance
needs - fixing issues around doors, security, water ingress and rust that are
part of keeping our existing building operational. Thanks also to JP Buhagiar
for keeping the gym gear up to date and functional.
Our Building Renovation Committee, led by Garret O’Connor, continued work
on the Detailed Design. The Detailed Design has shown some significant
design issues that have to be addressed before we can move forward. We are
now ready to engage a building company to finalise the Design items and give
us time and cost estimates for the build of a new Club that meets our needs
while respecting our heritage. We still will need significant funding to make this
vision a reality.
Thomas Wetula delivered his fourth impressive result for our finances. I
have been very lucky to have such a capable Treasurer over my time as
President! With lower levels of revenue from The Scenic Lounge the Club
relied on activations, grants, sponsorship and fundraising. We thank the
Federal government, Waverley Council, SLSA, SLSNSW and Sydney Branch for
several grants received to support our operations, and especially the State
Government for the $1m grant towards the rebuilding program.
Brett Pattinson and the Marketing & Sponsorship team achieved the
impossible for another year with Activations bringing in vital funds for the
Club - our highest level of funds from this source ever. Glen Frost continued his
excellent work on the Bondi Podcast, which captures great Member stories
and builds awareness of the Club and its mission. Caroline Pierce continued
her work on the Bondi Surfer - consolidating so many Club activities into one
communication is a huge task and she is vital to ensuring we have a solid
record of our Club’s range of monthly activities.
The Club continues its work with the broader Bondi community. Sebastian
Cassie and his volunteers were able to provide Christmas meals to many
vulnerable people within our community. We continued the Dippers and Silver
Salties programs. We also supported the ADHD Association, Take 3 for the Sea,
Ocean Lovers Festival, Coastrek (Beyond Blue) and many other community
activities.
Over this year, I have been supported by passionate, capable and competent
Directors who act with the “One Club” mindset and aim to improve the Club
for the benefit of all Members. Really when you think of all the items above,
it should come as no surprise that these capable Directors and the 60 plus
manager roles that support them delivered a result that Branch recognised
us with the “Club of the Year”. As Members, we all benefit from the skills of our
Members who lead and manage aspects of the Club operations and I offer my
heartfelt thanks for all their support.
This year we had great joy when Grant Baldock and Louise Santos became
Life Members. Both Members have given so much to the Club and it was one
of the best attended AGMs in memory. The celebrations continued long into
the night.
It was with great sadness that, in September, Louise passed away. For those
who attended our last Annual General Meeting, you understand the pivotal
role Louise quietly played within our Club for decades. Her commitment knew
no bounds and she continued to champion our cause diligently, even serving
as Registrar this season.
Personally, I will deeply miss Louise’s straightforward, pragmatic approach and
her resolute “can-do” attitude that inspired us all. Her influence reverberated
through countless aspects of our Club, and her absence will be profoundly felt
by each and every one of us. Louise’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication
and the profound impact she had on our Club’s journey. I look forward to her
legacy living on through a new patrol and a major Club award.
With fifteen full strength and highly skilled patrols, a robust education system,
strong Nipper and Dipper programs, healthy finances, and an improving
competition section, I believe Bondi is ready to ensure “no lives lost” next
season.
117TH ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2023/24
DEPUTY
PRESIDENT’S
REPORT
Felicity MacArthur
Deputy President
10
BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB
I am honoured to present this Annual Report,
highlighting our key achievements and initiatives, for
another successful year of “No Lives Lost” between
the flags for Bondi Surf Bathers Life Saving Club.
The Club continues to go from strength to strength
and we have so much to be proud of this season.
The energy this year has been palpable, as each
section grows, with higher levels of “patrols +1”
mentality across the board. Our in-demand Bronze
Courses have set the Club and our patrols up so
well for the season, with patrols growing into the
mid-thirties. I thank the tireless Education team who
are forging incredibly high standards of training and
higher awards.
The water and beach have been so busy this year
– filled every morning with skis, boards, swimmers,
and runners from the Club. A huge ongoing
thank you to our wonderful Blake Hatton, whose
“Golden BoardsTM” have raised the skill and
engagement levels of so many Members this year.
The uptake of competition boards has also been
a success with greater numbers at training, with
the Opens Competitors seeing a huge increase in
representation, and our Masters bringing home the
seventh consecutive Australian score title. Well done
to all of those who competed.
We have continued our destination patrols to Pacific
Palms and Fairy Meadows this year, ensuring the
safety of beachgoers and helping out smaller clubs.
A big thank you to Jacob Ezrakovich for leading
this. Bondi has an excellent reputation up and
down the coast for our energy, high standards and
willingness to extend our volunteer spirit wherever
needed. This volunteer spirit was shown in force
again this Christmas Lunch for those experiencing
homelessness. A huge thanks to Sebastian Cassie,
yet again for pulling off this excellent day for those
in need.
This season, we have made significant strides
in developing our Member Services team. We
have enhanced our ability to serve our Members
effectively, ensuring their needs are met and their
experiences within the Club are enriching. Particular
mention of thanks to the newly formed ‘Bondi
Wellbeing Team’ looking after our mental health
and wellbeing both on and off the beach. Mostyn
Sumner led the way on our Inclusion and Diversity
programmes, Rainbow Beaches and Mardi Gras
Patrol. These initiatives show the whole Bondi and
Lifesaving community that everyone is welcome here
at Bondi Surf Club. As the SLSA President John Baker
said: “The Ocean does not discriminate, and
nor do we”.
Our commitment to female role model development
within the Club has been evident, especially
within our IRB Team. They have achieved equal
representation of newly trained crew Members
being women. This milestone underscores our
dedication to empowering women in lifesaving
roles, through increasing female trainers and
running Women in Powercraft sessions. Nixy Krite
led another phenomenal effort for our third annual
Pink Patrol, with 90 women from across NSW, Perth
and Queensland. The power of joining together to
learn new skills, develop leadership styles, and join
together to celebrate successes is wonderful.
Personally, as a Member of the “Women of Waverley
Council to the Mayor”, I have had the privilege to
collaborate with remarkable women across our
community. Our efforts have focused on driving
policies and initiatives that support and uplift
women, ensuring their voices are heard and valued.
These opportunities allowed me to share our Club’s
vision and initiatives with a broader audience,
fostering greater community engagement and
support. It is with pride that I hear how positively our
Surf Club is viewed by Leaders within the community,
as an outstanding place for our youth, and in
how we serve others by protecting the beach and
beyond.
Looking forward, the development of our youth
Cadet section remains a top priority. We are
committed to nurturing the next generation of
lifesavers, providing them with the training, support
and opportunities they need to thrive.
Our huge milestone in all our minds is the new
build. As a Board representative on the Building
Committee, I have been particularly focused on
promoting diversity and inclusion within our facilities.
This includes the development of women’s changing
spaces, ensuring they are safe, accessible and
welcoming.
A heartfelt thank you and well done to everyone who
has worked tirelessly this season. Your dedication,
hard work and willingness to develop new skills and
take on leadership roles have been truly inspiring.
Congratulations to all those who have been
recognized as winners at the Club, Branch and State
levels. Your achievements are a testament to your
commitment and excellence.
11
117TH ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2023/24
LIFE
MEMBERS
Eden Love*
George Henriques*
John O. Bond*
Rupert O’Brien*
Carew D. Cadden*
Lawrence Corbett*
Frank J. Craven*
Arthur Dee*
Cleon Dennis*
Spencer Dennis*
Sydney George Dunrich*
Harry Evans*
Percy Flynn*
Albert Fullwood*
Sid Fullwood*
Len Harris*
Thomas Middleton, MC*
Desmond O’Brien*
Gerald Ormsby*
Lyster C. I. Ormsby*
Keith Piddington*
Alf Ray*
Robert Cadden*
William J. Clarke*
William V. Craven*
Harry Flynn*
Fred A. Mailler*
I. Morgan*
Henry R. Wallach*
Harry B. Fletcher*
William A. Douglas*
Maxwell Steele*
Phillip Gower Johnston ISO*
Perce G. Douglass*
Thomas W. Meagher OBE*
J. Broughton Agnew*
Harry Ruskin Rowe*
Horace G. Walker*
William J. Bennett*
Arthur G. R. Griffiths*
John F. Cox*
Allan P. Rennex*
Ernest A. Clarke*
Carl A. Jeppesen MBE*
Stanley McDonald*
Les Bloxham*
Raymond Walker Halliday*
Victor A. Besomo*
Charles J. Gale*
F. Alex Beacom*
John T. Kiely*
12
BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB
Jack Edward Simmons*
Harry Nightingale*
Fred J. Ryan*
Frank James Nock*
John Frederick Fisher*
Allen E. Cooke*
Basil V. McDonald OAM*
Kevin H. Murray*
Colin George Douglass*
Ray M. O’Keefe MBE*
Rothe Bassingthwaite*
Brian F. Hutchings*
Cedric Emmanuel OAM*
William J. C. Jenkings*
Victor H. Bulteau ISM*
Cyril Baldock OAM
Ernst Collin Hunt*
Charles G. Smith*
Robert J. Reid*
Peter R. Stapleton AM
Peter G. Quartly
Rodney G. Harvey APM
Leslie A. Hawkins*
Leonard M. Harris OAM*
Keiran M. Speed
John G. LaForest
Dr Clif J. Ryan*
David J. Hoggett
Fred D. Smith*
Peter R. Murphy*
Robert R. Leitch
Scott N. Laney
Andrew S. Winters*
Alan A. Scott*
Leo J. Hyde
Harvey E. Barratt
Andrew J. McEncroe
Scott T. Ryan
Jacob Waks
Nicholas Nezval
Adam Nezval
William Hardman
Andrew Hoggett
Patrick Moore
Louise Santos *
Grant Baldock
*Deceased as of 30 April 2024
13
117TH ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2023/24
GRANT BALDOCK
Grant Baldock has been an active and engaged member of Bondi SBLSC for the past 35
years. His passion for the Club is second to none, evident both on and off the beach, as
a lifesaver, competitor and administrator.
Grant joined as a Nipper, gained his Bronze Medallion at Bondi and became one of
the youngest Patrol Captains in the Club’s history at the age of eighteen. He served as
Patrol Captain (1993/94-1995/96) and was awarded Lifesaver of the Year in both the
1993/94 and 1995/96 seasons.
His competition career started with back-to-back gold at the Australian Championships
in the Under 15 R&R event (1989 and 1990) and again, for a third year running, in the
Under 18 R&R in 1991. He has competed for the Club at Branch, Metropolitan, National
and World levels across four decades including being a member of the first Bondi IRB
team to win a medal at the Australian Championships (silver in Tube Rescue 1996), a
finalist in the Open Surf Race at Worlds (2002), Australian Champion in the Masters 110
years Surf Team (2017), and winning silver in the Masters 130 years Surf Team (2023).
He also completed the Coolangatta Gold as an individual competitor in 1995 and
2015.
Grant has represented Bondi SBLSC in 30 Stan Mac Relays, captaining the team
on several occasions including a three-year winning streak in 2010-2012, our most
successful run in the relay since the 1980s.
His competition achievements at the Club level are numerous including winning the
Senior Club Championship five times and Senior Surf Race Champion four times.
He has held the roles of Junior Captain (1993/94 and 1994/95), Vice-Captain Lifesaving
(1995/96), member of the Management Committee (1996/97) and Branch Delegate
(2000/01). He has been a Nippers Age Manager since 2021.
Grant was the first event organiser of an ocean swim hosted by Bondi SBLSC the ‘Surf and
Sand Survival Challenge in 2002 and 2003 and was the event organiser of the Bondi Blue
Water Challenge for three years (2017-19).
Off the beach, Grant was a founding member and continues to be a driving force of the
Legends Lunch Committee which has conducted nine annual fundraising events for the
Club, raising more than $230,000. He is a long-time contributor to Club social events
including volunteer event manager for the reinstated Bondi Surf Club Annual Dinner in
2001 with the three Australian Belt Champions as the guest of honours (Simon Nothling,
Leigh Emery and Brian Hutchings). The replica photo of the evening is still displayed in
the Bondi Surf Club Hall of Champions.
He has made a significant contribution to major Club fundraisers over many years
including the City to Surf and Surf Club Balls.
Grant has been a mentor to a generation of Bondi Surf Club members – as Junior
Captain in the 1990s, as an R&R coach and as the Club’s first ever professional coach.
He launched and delivered the Bondi SBLSC School Surf Survival Program in the 1990’s
which saw over 500 high school students complete a Surf Survival program at the end
of the school year.
Grant continues to contribute to both the Senior and Junior Club on multiple levels in the
Baldock family tradition.
LIFE
MEMBERSHIP
2023/24
14
BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB
LOUISE SANTOS
Louise Santos joined Bondi SBLSC in 2003 after moving to Bondi from Dee Why.
She grew up on the Northern Beaches and was a Dee Why Nipper for several
years while competing at pool swim events and other sports. She gained
her Bronze Medallion at Bondi in 2003 and quickly became Vice Captain of
Bassingwaithe Patrol from 2006-2008 and attained her Long Service award
after ten years of Patrols.
She won four consecutive Australian Titles in the Open Female Rescue and
Resuscitation event and medalled in two other Open titles. She won more than
40 Australian Masters and World Masters Titles events showing her versatility
in Ironwoman, RnR, Taplin Teams, Board Rescue, Ski Relay, Double Ski, Surf
Teams, Board Relay, tube race, surfboard riding, beach events and Pool
Rescue.
Bondi Life Member Nick Nezval estimates Lousie had entered more events
in the 2022 season than any competitor from any Surf Club in Australia,
demonstrating her diversity and commitment to the team.
She was the first Bondi female individual to win an Australian Title in 2004/05
winning a Masters Ironwoman event in large seas on the Gold Coast and
was a member of the first Bondi SBLSC Masters Female Team competing in
Australian Titles in Perth 2007/08.
Louise has been Bondi’s Women’s Club Champion four times (2006/07,
2007/08, 2009/10, 2012/13), a Member of Stan Mac Relay 2004/05 and she was
Harry Nightingale Open Patrol Person of the Year 2006/07. She was also the
first woman to complete the gruelling Gold Medallion at Bondi, in the 2008
season.
Louise became the Club’s Director of Competition (now Surfsports) in the
2005/06 season and excelled in the role. Honorary Secretary Peter Quartly
wrote of her in the 2006 Annual Report: “ I have always felt the Director of
Competition should be a non-competitor, however, Louise certainly made me
eat my words, with a fantastic job. Her performance was an eye opener and
just shows what can be done in the area.”
She held the roles of Youth Captain in 2016 and 2017, Board Captain spanning
2013-2016 and 2017-2023 and most recently Registrar in 2022.
Following her time as Youth Captain, Louise introduced the Cadet of the Month
and Cadet Patrol mentorship program in 2018, was the sole organiser of the
Cadet Movie and Pizza Night 2019 and Cadet Wet n Wild Water Park Day and
spent many years coaching Cadet age competition board groups (afternoon
board coaching 2009 and 2016).
Since becoming a mother, Louise became more involved at Bondi Nippers.
She said, “I am very lucky to have grown up in the beach environment and it is
special to be able to teach my son surf skills and nurture his love of the ocean.”
Since 2018 she has held the positions of Age Manager assistant and water
events Coach for three years, has been the Age Competition Manager 2019-
2021, Nippers Competition Manager in 2021 and State Nipper Team Manager
as well as Nipper board and swim Coach. She had shared her passion for Surf
Lifesaving with hundreds of local children.
Louise has been a consistent water safety volunteer and all-round volunteer for
20 years. She was part of the organising team for the Century Ball, organises
the annual Clubbie Classic barbecues, has been the liaison for the Nipper and
Senior Club barbecue since 2016, and has volunteered at every opportunity for
fundraisers and appeals including eighteen City to Surfs, Bush Fire Appeal and
every Bondi Blue Water Challenge since 2011. Louise did more than show up -
she organised, packed down and lent a hand whenever she could.
The crown in Louise’s distinguished competition career was completing the
Coolangatta Gold Long Course at the age of 49 in 2018, placing second in the
35-49 year age group. This was one of her proudest achievements as it was
previously considered an endurance event that females could not complete.
Louise is an outstanding member of the Bondi SBLSC. Her passion for Surf
Lifesaving and competition set her apart as an exemplary role model for all
Members and is a shining example of the values of modern inclusive Surf
Lifesaving.
15
117TH ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2023/24
CLUB AWARDS
MAJOR AWARDS
Kevin Murray Memorial President’s Trophy
Nixy Krite
Mark Fischer Memorial Club Captain’s
Award
Michael Delaney
Harry Nightingale Lifesaver of the Year
Robyn Farmer
Harry Nightingale Open Patrol Person of
the Year
Thomas Hough
Harry Nightingale Junior Patrol Person of
the Year
Jessica Ryan
Harry Nightingale Cadet Patrol Person of
the Year
Tess Jeevaratnam
Brian Hutchings Most Outstanding Surf
Sports Athlete – Female
Annabelle Paterson
Brian Hutchings Most Outstanding Surf
Sports Athlete – Male
Simon Nothling
SCHOLARSHIPS
Kevin Murray Scholarship
Jessica Ryan
Dr Clif Ryan Scholarship
Logan Ryan
George Hill Scholarship
Rory Davey
Rothe Bassingthwaite Scholarships
Declan Fletcher
Indigo Parry-Husbands
Pippi Strehler
LIFESAVING
Patrol of the Year
Jeppesen
IRB Member of the Year
Daniel Rosado
IRB Driver of the Year
Logan Ryan
IRB Crew of the Year
Alex Nipper
IRB Competitor of the Year
Kristy Smith
IRB Trainer of the Year
Nixy Krite
Support Operations Person of the Year
Julie Pritchard
SURF SPORTS
Board Competitor of the Year
Amy O Brien
Ski Competitor of the Year
Julie Pritchard
Swim Competitor of the Year
Jeanette Brits
Beach Events Competitor of the Year
Jayson Lincoln
Lifesaving Events Competitor of the Year
Jessica Ryan
Board Riding Competitor of the Year
Anthony Carroll
Masters Athlete of the Year
Simon Nothling
Pool Rescue Competitor of the Year
Dori Miller
Coach of the Year
Blake Hatton
EDUCATION
Assessor of the Year
Thomas Hough
Instructor of the Year
Daniel Rosado
Rookie Instructor of the Year
Kate Fitzpatrick
Recruit of the Year
Renata Krause
MAJOR SECTION AWARDS
Open Male Club Champion
Jesse Tucek
Open Female Club Champion
Annabelle Paterson
Under 17 Male Club Champion
Declan Fletcher
Under 17 Female Club Champion
Sophia Byrnes
Under 15 Male Club Champion (cadet)
Kelian Bourgeois
Open swim champion
Jackson Doolan
Junior Swim Champions (U17 and U19)
Jana Kowalski
Cadet Swim Champion (Under 15)
Kelian Bourgeois
AWARDS AND
RECOGNITION
16
BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB
17
117TH ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2023/24
SURF LIFESAVING SYDNEY AWARDS
OF EXCELLENCE
WINNERS
Club of the Year
Bondi
Bondi has moved from strength to strength this season. The focus this year was to be “rescue ready” to
“train like someone’s life depends on it”.
Training programs such as Champion Lifesaver, Nipper Development and IRB have assisted achieve this
objective.
Bondi continues to maintain the highest education awards delivered this season which support the
Club’s focus on developing great lifesavers. Bondi’s Masters Athlete Team again became the National
Masters Team of the Year Winning at the Sydney Branch Championships, NSW State Championships and
Australian Championships. Bondi U17’s won a Bronze at the Australian Championship titles Patrol Teams
competition and Bondi proudly stands as having the largest group of Champion lifesaver participants at
Branch and State.
This season the Club further enhanced its support for its Members by increasing its number ofpatrols
to decrease its Member patrol time from 50 plus hours to 35 hours per season. It has rebuilt its Nipper
program with an increase in Nipper intake and delivered strong SRC capabilities that are transferable on
patrols.
Its community engagement has been at its highest with Silver Salties, Swim sisters and OceanLovers
Festival to name a few.
Several new programs have been developed to support Bondi’s sustain of its various Membership base
such as the Women’s “Choose to Challenge” IRB Training session and workshop, IRB Motor Masterclass,
a Wellness Patrol to build mental health awareness, connection and preparedness for our patrolling
Members with First Aid tools.
A cadets information and pathways evening, plus the Club’s ongoing support for Rainbow Beaches and
Pink Patrol events.
The Club continues to grow its gender diversity across roles with the Club from female participation on the
Board, as Patrol Captains, IRB drivers and crew, RWC operators, Duty officers, and TAFs.
CLUB NOMINATIONS/FINALISTS
Innovation of the Year
Bondi IRB Motor Masterclasses
Administrator of the Year
Michael Delaney
Youth Surf Lifesaver of the Year
Alexandra Schacht
U15 Surf Lifesaver of the Year
Tess Jeevaratnam
Volunteer of the Year
Nixy Krite
Youth Volunteer of the Year
Tess Jeevaratnam
Patrol Captain of the Year
Robyn Farmer
Patrol of the Year
Jeppesen
Trainer of the Year
Daniel Rosado
18
BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB
Surf Lifesaver of the Year
Thomas Hough
Tom has amassed 135 hours of patrol this season
in addition to his deep commitment to education
training and assessing.
His selflessness, patience, dedication, and
unwavering support reflect his commitment
to the surf lifesaving mission of achieving zero
preventable drownings.
His commitment to excellence is further
demonstrated by overseeing over ten Bronze
Medallion assessments and mock assessments
this year, ensuring a high standard of competency
among newly certified lifesavers.
This rigorous assessment process has not only
maintained but raised the quality of skills within our
Club, contributing to a safer beach environment
and a more proficient lifesaving team.
Through these initiatives, Thomas has not only
enhanced the skill level and operational readiness
of our lifesavers but has also instilled a proactive
and prepared mindset that is critical for effective
surf lifesaving.
His leadership and dedication have significantly
impacted the lifesaving community by fostering
a culture of excellence and safety, enhancing
operational effectiveness and inspiring both
current and future generations of lifesavers to
continue pushing for higher standards and greater
community engagement.
As a lifesaver, his innovative training programs
have not only equipped active Club Members with
essential lifesaving skills but have also instilled
a confidence to take on challenging rescues
together with leadership roles within the Club.
Tom’s encouragement has led to an increase in the
number of young lifesavers aspiring to become
future leaders of Bondi Surf Bathers Life Saving
Club.
Facilitator of the Year
Marissa Saunders
Marissa constantly epitomises Bondi’s spirit of
service. Known for her generous spirit and deep
commitment to education, Marissa’s ability to
juggle multiple responsibilities while maintaining
the highest standards of training, assessment
and facilitation is nothing short of inspiring. By
personally facilitating the ART awards for Bondi,
she has enhanced the lifesaving capabilities at
one of Australia’s busiest beaches. Her involvement
in the Silver Medallion Patrol Captain courses
has helped shape the leadership landscape of
future patrols. Her trainees often become mentors
themselves, perpetuating a cycle of learning and
leadership.
19
117TH ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2023/24
Support Operations Member of the Year
Julie Pritchard
Julie is an exceptional volunteer with an incredible work ethic and
mindset in anything that she has been tasked to do. She has embraced
becoming an RWC operator with 57 hours on patrol this season plus
out of hours callouts and her dedicated contribution to saving the lives
of flood victims across the state. She is an active patrolling Member
and an IRB trainer. Julie is a role model in the Club promoting support
operations for future membership.
No task is too hard. Her positivity and commitment to the service in
support operations are exemplary.
Official of the Year -Highly Commended
Jamie Vueti
Services Team of the Year
IRB Trainers Team
Masters Athlete of the Year
Simon Nothling
Simon is a highly talented athlete who has achieved outstanding
results in Masters competition as well as open events this season. At
the Australian Championships, Simon achieved four gold and two
silver medals. At NSW State Championships three gold and three silver
medals and twice placed fifth. At the Sydney Branch Championship,
Simon achieved three gold and a bronze medal.
Simon is highly regarded among his peers, he has a fantastic work
ethic, and a positive attitude and is a key Member of Bondi’s Master’s
team. He has been instrumental in the success of the team in Masters
events at the Branch, State and Australian Championships.
Most Awards per Operational Area
Bondi
20
BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB