Why Join the Club
As the springtime sun draws crowds to North Stradbroke Island’s stunning beaches, the Point Lookout Surf Life Saving Club is calling on new volunteers to step up and make a difference. “It’s more than just saving lives
– it’s about the camaraderie and being part of something bigger,” says Club President Matt ‘Emu’ Robinson.
Having joined the Club as a young lad back in 1985, Matt found lifelong friendships and a sense of purpose. Matt says that many young volunteers have even launched their careers through involvement with SLSC, gaining invaluable skills and experiences along the way.
Unique Challenges, Unique Club
Point Lookout SLSC is one of only two clubs in Queensland tasked with patrolling two beaches: Main Beach and Cylinder Beach. The Club’s volunteers also rove between these and other beaches at the Point, ensuring the safety of beachgoers along a significant stretch of coastline. This unique responsibility, coupled with the Club’s isolated island location, requires a higher level of training, execution, and knowledge, making Point Lookout SLSC a standout in the Surf Life Saving community.
The Power of Prevention
While rescues are a crucial part of the Club’s work, preventative education is equally important. Volunteers play a vital role in educating the public about beach safety, from understanding rips to recognising dangerous conditions. “Preventative actions are key to keeping people safe, and it’s something we emphasise strongly at Point Lookout,” says Matt. The Club’s efforts have resulted in hundreds of preventative actions on busy days, reducing the need for life-threatening rescues.
Join the Team—No Iron Man Required
Point Lookout SLSC is always on the lookout for new members, especially as they gear up for the busier patrolling season, which runs from the first week of September school holidays through the long weekend in May. Rest assured, you don’t have to be an Iron Man to get involved – there are plenty of roles to suit all abilities and interests. Whether it’s patrolling the beaches, helping with community education, or even flipping sausages at a local fundraising event, there’s a place for everyone. Many of the Club’s volunteers come from the mainland, including suburbs as far as New Farm and Newstead, making it a widespread community-driven initiative.
A Lifesaving Lifestyle
Volunteering with Point Lookout SLSC offers more than just the chance to make a difference – it’s a lifestyle. The Club’s friendly, inclusive atmosphere makes it easy to form lasting friendships while contributing to the safety and wellbeing of the community. “I recently attended a party and about 12 guys from SLSC were there,” says Matt. “When you volunteer with people who are willing to put their lives on the line to save a complete stranger, it’s truly something special. It leads to lasting friendships both on and off the beach.”
Point Lookout SLSC is also one of the few remaining Clubs to offer weekend accommodation to members in a traditional bunkroom, adding to the camaraderie and unique experience. As Matt puts it, “Whether you’re rescuing a swimmer in distress or simply educating a family about water safety, every contribution counts, and every volunteer is valued.”
Dive In
As Point Lookout SLSC prepares for the busy patrolling season, the Club invites anyone with a passion for the beach and community to join their ranks. With opportunities for people of all ages and fitness levels, now is the perfect time to get involved and help keep North Stradbroke Island’s beaches safe.
For more information, visit Point Lookout Surf Life Saving Club’s website or contact the Club.
