Surf Life Saving - Sydney Northern Beaches

Proficiencies for Patrolling Members

All active lifesavers are required to complete a proficiency test to prove competency in the lifesaving award/s they hold and wish to remain current in. Proficiency tests are necessary to:

  • Ensure ongoing competency of members in their area of training and activities
  • Maintain the standards of knowledge and expertise of surf life savers
  • Satisfy legal and statutory requirements
  • Reinforce and maintain our service commitment to the bathing and beach going community

A member’s proficiency is valid until the 31st December each year, unless the award has a longer proficiency period.

Any member who is NOT proficient by the 31st December, or has NOT completed the appropriate awards shall NOT be allowed to:

  • Perform patrols
  • Operate rescue craft or
  • Compete in Surf Life Saving competitions.

Proficiency tests may be conducted after 31st December with the approval of the Branch/State. Any member completing their proficiency after 31st December each season shall be eligible to patrol but shall not be permitted to participate in any SLSA Championship competition until after the 1stMay in the following year.

Proficiency/Re-accreditation shall be conducted in the following awards for them to remain current:

Yearly:

  • Surf Rescue Certificate
  • Bronze Medallion
  • Advanced Resuscitation Techniques Certificate
  • IRB Boat Crew
  • Silver Medallion IRB Drivers
  • Spinal Management
  • Gold Medallion
  • Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation
  • Facilitators
  • Rescue Water Craft operators Certificate
  • Jet Rescue Boat Crew/Driver/Skipper
  • Offshore Rescue Boat Crew/Driver/Skipper


Every 2 years:

  • Trainers, Assessors
  • Pain Management


Every 3 years:

  • Senior First Aid (CPR must be updated every year)