In the past 12 months, surf lifesavers have volunteered over 1.3 million hours to help keep our beaches safer. As you can imagine, patrolling beaches and maintaining training and essential lifesaving equipment all comes at a cost, which is why surf lifesavers rely on generous donations from the public to continue the work they do on our beaches and beyond the coastline.
For their annual Mission Zero Tax Appeal, the Surf Life Saving Foundation (SLSF) called for additional donations from supporters right across the country, and Australians came to their aid—raising an impressive $550,047.15 and bringing them one step closer to achieving their goal of zero preventable deaths in Australian waters.
“As a community-funded organisation, we really do rely on the support of generous Australians and partners like Isuzu UTE Australia to deliver our lifesaving services on beaches and in communities across the country,” said John Brennan OAM, Surf Life Saving Foundation Chief Operating Officer – Brisbane.
“We are extremely grateful to Isuzu UTE Australia and every one of our supporters who so kindly donated to our recent Tax Appeal. These funds mean that our volunteer surf lifesavers will have the vital skills and equipment needed to save lives this summer,” he said.
As Surf Life Saving’s Major National Partner, Isuzu UTE Australia pledged to match donations dollar-for-dollar, up to $82,400 towards the Mission Zero Tax Appeal between June 1st and June 30th—effectively doubling donations to double the impact of volunteer surf lifesavers. With this amount contributing towards the accumulative $550,047.15 raised, Surf Life Saving can maintain lifesaving rescue equipment, enhance training programs, expand safety campaigns, and continue to provide support services for our surf lifesavers and beachgoers.
But what exactly does this look like? Well, let’s break it down. Did you know that it costs approximately $850 to train a surf lifesaver to a Bronze Medallion standard, which is required to patrol on our beaches? With over half a million dollars raised, this means that Surf Life Saving can train another 647 surf lifesavers; or purchase another 25 Inflatable Rescue Boats; or 275 rescue boards; or 785 first aid kits!
This achievement, which could not have happened without the support of generous donors, will no doubt make a significant impact in surf lifesavers’ ability to help keep our beaches safer as we head into summer.
With borders—both domestic and international—opening back up, an influx of beachgoers not seen for a few years will be hitting the surf and sand to enjoy the beautiful coastline Australia has to offer. This means that our surf lifesavers will be busier and needed more than ever to ensure that everyone gets home safely from their day on the coast.
Before you head to the beach, download the Beachsafe App and ensure you swim at a patrolled beach, between the red and yellow flags. Remember, surf lifesavers will be there to keep watch and ensure you have a great day out. So when you visit the beach and return home safely, you’re benefiting first-hand from the service of our surf lifesavers.
It's not too late to show your support. Donate to our surf lifesavers today, to help keep our beaches and communities safer.