Rookie Program

The Rookie Lifeguard Programme is aimed at 13–14-year-olds as a preparation to become a lifeguard.

Course Overview

The Rookie Lifeguard Programme has been designed to help junior members prepare to be a surf lifeguard. The Rookie Lifeguard Programme aims to promote "practical lifeguarding" to the younger members and develop strong ties between senior and junior members as a result of involvement.

The target audience for this programme is 13-year-old junior members wishing to become a Surf Lifeguards next season.

Course Information 

Pre-requisites: 

  • Be 13 years of age by the 1st October 

  • Be able to swim 200 meters in a pool under 4:30mins 

  • Current member of a SLS club 

Duration: Variable depending on competence and instruction structure 2-8 weeks 

Delivered by: Club Rookie Lifeguard coordinators 

Who should complete it: Anyone interested in becoming a Surf Lifeguard in years to come 

Candidate requirements: 

  • Participate in four patrols (no less than 12 hours in total) 

  • Complete all Rookie Surf Lifeguard Log Book Modules 

 

Topics Covered 

  1. Health, sun smart & conservation 

  2. Surf & swimming skills 

  3. Role of a surf lifeguard and patrolling 

  4. Signals, flags & radio operations 

  5. Rescue, releases & tube rescue 

  6. First aid & emergency care 

  7. Primary survey & CPR 

  8. Practical surf skills 

  9. Patrol equipment & clubhouse 

  10. Surf Life Saving Club structure and culture 

 

Outcomes

At the completion of the qualification candidates will be able to:

  1. Identify the role of a Surf Lifeguard

  2. Demonstrate a range of Surf Lifeguard skills