More than 13,000 primary school students across rural and regional Tasmania have received free, hands-on water safety education through a partnership between Surf Life Saving Tasmania (SLST) and TasPorts, with trained lifesavers visiting over 200 schools in three years.

The Beach to Bush program, supported by $15,000 in TasPorts funding since 2023, takes lifesavers directly into schools in areas where access to water safety education has historically been limited. Sessions cover beach safety, rip identification, inland waterway risks, emergency response, sun safety, and safety around port environments.

SLST Community Programs Coordinator Nadia Roulias said the partnership had strengthened the organisation’s ability to reach communities that often have limited access to lifesaving education. 

“SLST’s mission has always been to save lives and build stronger, safer communities. Being able to deliver Beach to Bush statewide, particularly to rural and regional schools, has been made possible through TasPorts’ support,” she said.

TasPorts Senior Advisor Community Engagement and Partnerships Officer Natasha Wardale said TasPorts was proud to support initiatives that enhance safety across Tasmania’s marine and coastal environments.

“SLST and its volunteers play a vital role in educating young Tasmanians and promoting safe behaviour around beaches, ports and waterways. TasPorts is committed to supporting programs that improve marine safety and awareness.

“We value the essential safety knowledge SLST delivers and are pleased to contribute to efforts that keep Tasmanians safe,” Wardale said. 

The Beach to Bush program remains one of SLST's most impactful community initiatives, contributing to the long term goal of reducing preventable drowning and building safer, more informed communities across the state.  The Beach to Bush program will recommence in Term 4, 2026, continuing its vital role in shaping a safer Tasmania for future generations.