roles & pathways
There’s a Place For Everyone
Whether you want to be in the water, on the beach, in the clubhouse or supporting behind the scenes, there’s a role for you — no matter your age, experience or ability.
Other opportunities
Once you are involved in surf life saving there are many opportunities at a broader level.
These include
Leadership and development programs
State and national surf sports teams
State and National Committee and governance roles
Paid Lifeguard Opportunities
Community Education and training roles
find your place in surf life saving
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![Two female surfers, wearing yellow and black swimsuits, white swim caps, and medals, running barefoot on the beach with a green surfboard, smiling as they approach the water.]()
Nippers Participant (Ages 5–14)
Nippers is where many people begin their Surf Life Saving journey. Nippers is a fun, skills-based program where children learn beach and water safety, basic lifesaving skills, confidence, teamwork and friendships.
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![A young woman wearing a yellow waterproof jacket, a red and yellow cap, and a red strap, standing outdoors during the daytime. She is facing left with a focused expression. In the background, there are blurred images of similar women, and a cloudy sky.]()
Lifesaving (All Ages 13+)
From age 13, you can begin training to become a lifesaver and help keep beaches safe. There is a place for everyone with roles both in the water and on the beach.
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![Two female athletes wearing yellow shirts and swimming caps participate in a beach race, crawling on the sand while passing through small obstacle poles.]()
Surf Sports (All Ages U8 - 80+)
Surf sports is a great way to stay active, build fitness and develop rescue-ready skills for lifesaving.
Members can start participating from a young age, with more opportunities available from teenage years.
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![A group of eleven people in matching rescue gear, including red helmets and life jackets, standing on a yellow inflatable boat by a river in a wooded area. They are smiling and prepared for outdoor water rescue activities.]()
Rescue Services (Ages 18+)
For members aged 18 and over, there are opportunities to take part in search and rescue responses, supporting Tasmania’s emergency services.
Surf Life Saving Tasmania is home to the National Centre of Excellence for Flood and Swiftwater Rescue, providing additional pathways to develop specialist skills.
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![Person wearing a yellow shirt holding a walkie-talkie in front of a rack of walkie talkies.]()
In The Clubhouse
There are many roles that support the day-to-day running of clubs — no water involvement required. These roles are flexible and suit people who want to contribute in different ways. Many hands really do make light work.
