Seven decades of surf lifesaving were celebrated last weekend when more than 400 past and present members and friends of Toowoon Bay Surf Club gathered to celebrate its 70th anniversary.
The day was a showcase of surf lifesaving over the past 70 years and included displays of reel rescues, board rescues, surf boats and “rubber duckie” rescues, a jet ski, drone, first aid displays – all with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter hovering above.
The men who formed the surf reel team on the day were the only five members of the club who gained their bronze medallion by using the reel and belt rescue.
The club hall was packed with life members, past and present members and friends and family while a stage on the beach for local bands kept beachgoers entertained throughout the day.
“It was a really great day,” immediate past president Phillip Raymont said.
“It took a lot of organising, and thank you to all the volunteers, work crews, the 70th Committee, participants, supporters, helpers and Central Coast Council.
“Without their help the day would not have been so memorable.”
The club has one of the largest nipper programs in NSW as well as the Stingray nippers program, a modified program for children with additional needs.
Boasting 60 patrolling members and 800 social members, Raymont said the club was a very community-based club, running many programs in its hall including a men’s workshop, yoga, pilates and a choir.
A swim group known as the Buttercups meets every morning for either a quick dip or a full ocean swim.
The club foyer now boasts a patrol service board where members who have patrolled for 10 years or more are acknowledged, and a heritage walk which shows the evolution of the club.