CLUB
CHAPLAIN’S
REPORT
With gratefulness for the trust granted, I have continued to
serve as Chaplain at Bondi SBLSC. Although I ought not report
back on particular conversations and interactions I’ve had
with people through the season, I can tell you that I’ve had
many opportunities to walk or sit with members to listen and
perhaps share the burden for a few minutes regarding particular
challenges, questions or changes.
Sometimes just listening is very useful for people. Sometimes
people are looking for suggestions or ideas. I have moved home
25 minutes west of Bondi (turns out there is life if you go past the
Junction!). I am staying in touch and available through regular
patrols, Tuesday Golden Boards (TM), saying a few words at
Bronze Training and just being around now and then.
It has been very stimulating and encouraging to work with
Catherine Wilson, Felicity MacArthur, Denise Meuldijk, Thomas
Nguyen, Melody Woolford, Gareth (Chop) Robinson and Andrew
Every on some Club mental wellbeing projects. Of particular
note is the “Wellbeing Patrol”, born by Chop, as well as the two
seedling ideas which some patrols have experimented with of
(1) Patrol Captains regularly leading their patrol in the mental
wellbeing conversations and (2) appointing a mental wellbeing
Champion for their patrol who can be a point person, has
access to next steps and keeps these things on the boil for their
patrol. The team worked hard writing material guides to help
participating Captains attempt these things well. The working
group has attempted to raise awareness and equip patrols and
Members rather than just have one or two individual “experts” or
events at the Club.
In terms of development: I am undertaking further Chaplaincy
training - at the moment regarding leading incident response.
Blake Hatton
Club Chaplain
90
BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB