The TasPorts Leadership Program aims to build a stronger and more capable life saving community, and enrich the knowledge and capabilities of the members within their roles across the Surf Life Saving Tasmania (SLST) community.

Through the program, Vanessa Copeland, a recipient of the TasPorts Scholarship, was able to attend and officiate at several interstate events, including the Shaw and Partners Iron Series at Maroubra Beach, the Senior Interstate Championships, and the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships.

Across these events, Copeland was able to rotate through different positions, gaining exposure to both water and beach officiating roles, and observe high-performance event delivery. 

“I was able to actively engage in discussions and deepen my understanding of officiating practices at an elite level.”

With innovation at the forefront of her learning, Copeland said the integration of digital systems, particularly the use of iPads for recording and tracking results in real time is a game changer.

“This improved efficiency, accuracy, and communication between officials,” she said.

“I also observed strong coordination between different competition areas, especially in managing athletes competing across multiple disciplines. The way officials adapted event formats and schedules in response to changing weather and surf conditions was another key strength, demonstrating flexibility while maintaining athlete safety and fairness."

The mentoring for Copeland at these events also had a significant impact on her approach. 

“Observing experienced officials reinforced the importance of clear communication, confident decision-making, and teamwork.

“I gained a better understanding of positioning, particularly as a finishing judge and recorder, as well as the importance of anticipating race flow. It also encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, take on new roles, and be more proactive in asking questions and seeking feedback to improve my performance,” she said. 

Vanessa found that the most valuable outcome of the TasPorts Scholarship program has been the opportunity to develop both her confidence and capability as an official.

“Being exposed to high-level events and experienced mentors has accelerated my learning and broadened my understanding of event operations.

“Professionally, it has strengthened my skills across multiple officiating roles and enhanced my ability to adapt and lead in dynamic environments.

“Personally, it has been highly rewarding to challenge myself, build networks within the surf lifesaving community, and contribute more effectively to events in Tasmania,” she said.

Following the program, Vanessa is excited to apply some of her learning at a local level, and make specific changes to official training and how individuals can become an official.

“I am currently designing a PowerPoint training module to assist with clubs enlisting officials to help.”

TasPorts has been a proud partner of Surf Life Saving Tasmania through the Leadership Scholarship Program since its development in 2023, and values initiatives that improve marine safety in Tasmania and the waters in which they operate.