What is the Lifesaving Development Camp?

The Lifesaving Development Camp (or commonly known as 'Dev Camp')  is a live-in program to develop and enhance the knowledge and skills of young people to the next level.  

For 2026, Dev Camp will remain true to the core purpose of developing candidates aged 16-21 years into 'rescue ready' lifesavers and forming lifetime bonds that are typical of the lifesaving movement. Located in Ulverstone, this 4-day live-in program for current Bronze Medallion holders to experience detailed scenario-based training.

Since 2014, the camp has developed to suit the needs of our state and members and what has evolved is a program that prepares Tasmania's youth to take on more responsibility in their patrol teams, their own clubs and the wider community.  This is achieved by providing the young people who attend the Lifesaving Development Camp with a higher level of award training, and exposure to exciting, fast-paced simulated lifesaving scenarios. Camp attendees will use the standard patrolling equipment to manage ‘No Notice’ scenarios that become more complex as their skills develop. This style of delivery uses expert feedback to cement skills and knowledge in a relevant and practical medium.

Scenario Based Training

The Lifesaving Development Camp trains using the Experiential Learning Theory (ELT) education model. ELT uses scenario based training to give candidates the opportunity to experience realistic emergency scenes to practice their lifesaving skills. Scenarios are designed and conducted under the guidance of specially trained facilitators and safety officers. While evaluations of the past programs highlight the value of scenario based training for development of candidate skills, some participants may feel some emotional stress participating in such realistic training.

Scenarios may include but are not limited to: spinal cord injury, heart attack, asthma attach, anaphylaxis, car or boating accident, burns, fractures, breaks, cuts and abrasions, missing person. If you have concerns about your ability to participate in these scenarios, please contact the Camp Coordinator (details above) to discuss your concerns.

Lifesaving Development Camp 2026

• When:       Saturday 3 - Tuesday 6 January 2026
• Where:      Ulverstone, TAS

How to Participate

Candidates

Surf Life Saving Tasmania has now opened nominations for Candidates for the 2026 Lifesaving Development Camp. Nominations are strictly due by 9am, Monday 8 December 2025.

Places on Lifesaving Development Camp are limited and will be prioritised to ensure a balance of clubs are represented from across Tasmania, and based on the quality of applications. Unsuccessful applicants will be waitlisted in the event a spot becomes available. Whilst the target age for the camp is between 16 - 21 years, older candidates are welcome to apply.

More information and the online nomination form can be found in this Circular: 25-44 Lifesaving Development Camp - Candidate Nominations

Management Team

Management Team nominations for 2026 Dev Camp are now closed. Applicants will be notified of their outcome.

More information can be found in this Circular: 25-42 Lifesaving Development Camp - Management Team Nominations

Cost

The cost of the Lifesaving Development Camp is subsisdised by SLST, with accommodation, meals, training, award processing (if applicable) and local transport provided throughout the camp.   The 2026 camp fee is estimated at $290 per participant, with the final cost to be determined on confirmation of candidate numbers.

Testimonials