In the first feature of a new series, we caught up with Jacqueline de Jonge, State Advisor for Surf Sports and the Chair of the SLST Surf Sports Advisory Committee. Over the coming months we will continue to introduce you to many more volunteers who devote their time being committee members and advisors for the organisation.

The proud Somerset and Burnie SLSC clubbie admits that her role is far more active and involved than the term ‘advisor’ might let on. 

“The term ‘advisor’ is a bit of a misnomer,” said Jacqueline. “I work with an awesome team of committed and dedicated volunteers to deliver the state’s surf sports program.”

Jacqueline has held her current role at SLST since 2022 and says that a drive for creating more streamlined, effective and inclusive surf sports programs and events is what drew her to the role. 

“I am not a surf sports athlete,” she said, “though I did love rowing a surf boat for a couple of seasons.

“While I may not have direct experience as a surf sports athlete, I have an eye for building teams and developing efficient processes.”

Above all though Jacqueline is a proud member of her local surf clubs. If Jacqueline is not busy with her commitments as the Secretary at Burnie SLSC, then you will often find her on patrol at Somerset SLSC - the club where she received her Bronze Medallion back in 2018. 

Looking forward, Jacqueline and the committee aspire to make Surf Sports more accessible to all throughout the state.

“There is a keenness to get adaptive surf sports up and happening,” said Jacqueline. “This is going to take us more than just a season, but we will get there. 

“We also want to improve some more of our ‘business as usual’ jobs such as processes, checklists, carnival project plans, as well as the management and development of state teams, officials and coaches.

“There is a genuine deep commitment to provide a safe environment for all surf sport athletes – from our littlest “green caps” through to our very best seniors.”