Surf Life Saving Tasmania’s 2026 Lifesaving Development Camp has once again provided an immersive experience for young lifesavers across the state, helping them progress toward their IRB Crew Award while building confidence, capability and leadership in real-world patrol situations.

The live-in, multi-day program brought together 21 candidates and 14 coordinators and instructors to focus on practical, scenario-based training designed to consolidate lifesaving skills and support candidates on their pathway to qualification. Across the camp, participants completed hands-on sessions covering the IRB crew course and key Bronze Medallion skills, while team-building activities, incident management discussions and structured debriefs gave them the opportunity to reflect on communication, decision-making and teamwork in a supportive environment. SLST is also setting up assessments in the coming weeks to help clubs finalise the IRB Crew Award for those who have completed their training.

Deputy Camp Coordinator Lachlan Frame said seeing the young lifesavers grow throughout the camp was one of the most fulfilling aspects of his role.

“Being the Deputy Camp Coordinator for the Lifesaving Development Camp this year was incredibly rewarding. It’s a big role with a lot of responsibility, but you really see the impact of surf lifesaving beyond the flags,” he said.

“Watching young lifesavers step up, support each other and take ownership in scenarios makes all the planning and long hours worthwhile. The energy, enthusiasm and willingness to learn from the participants was inspiring.”

Scenario-based training played a central role in consolidating the candidates’ skills. Multi-casualty scenarios, in particular, challenged participants to manage multiple patients, delegate tasks, and communicate effectively under pressure.

By the final day, participants were demonstrating clear leadership, strong decision-making, and the ability to take charge in complex situations.

“The biggest highlight was seeing the young lifesavers gain confidence from day one to the final scenarios. By the end, they were taking charge, communicating clearly and backing their decisions.”

Beyond consolidating technical skills, the camp also fostered leadership, resilience and teamwork, while strengthening connections across the Tasmanian lifesaving community.

“Camps like this are incredibly valuable because they give young lifesavers opportunities to practice not just their skills, but their decision-making, leadership and teamwork.”

“It also allows them to connect with peers from other clubs, building networks and friendships that strengthen the wider lifesaving community. Many participants come away motivated and ready to take on greater responsibility within their clubs,” Frame said.\\

Following another successful year, Frame hopes to continue his involvement.

“Being a part of the Lifesaving Development Camp is something I’d love to continue. It’s a fantastic program with a real impact,” he said. 

Surf Life Saving Tasmania thanks all coordinators, trainers and participants who contributed to the success of the 2026 Lifesaving Development Camp, and looks forward to supporting candidates as they finalise their IRB Crew Award and continue their development as lifesavers.