SURF LIFESAVING
Two lifesavers from Umina Surf Life Saving Club are bringing home gold after taking out the top spot at the 2022 SLSNSW First Aid Championships at Queenscliff on March 20.
Erin Scahill and Bethwyn Caller placed first in the Under 19 Mixed First Aid division, taking out a total of 330.50 points.
The duo then placed third in the Open Mixed First Aid division with a total of 348 points.
Each event has a set simulated accident scenario and a set time limit for each team in the event to respond.
Teams come out of isolation to a completely random emergency and are required to examine their casualties, make their diagnosis and then treat the casualties using the materials provided and their first aid kits.
Points are awarded based on the teams’ approach to the casualty, examination and diagnosis, treatment applied and management of the incident.
Deputy Referee and 15-year veteran of officiating at First Aid and Lifesaving Championships, Adrienne Lowe, said judges have noticed a great improvement from lifesavers towards patient care.
“It was such a good learning curve, every competition you do you learn something,” Lowe said.
“To give them that opportunity at a state level will be invaluable when they come to compete at the Aussies.
“It’s a great competition and it’s getting closer to what you’d do in a real-life situation, the competitors are not just trying to get points.”
Umina SLSC congratulated the duo on achieving their qualifications.
“Shout out to Bronte for officiating and being an amazing club coach,” the club said.
Maisy Rae