The next generation of leaders within the NSW Lifesaving movement will be put through their paces at an exciting Youth Development Camp at The Retreat, Anna Bay in January.

All 13 Hunter SLSC Clubs in the Hunter Region have nominated a junior lifesaver to represent their branch for the opportunity to be crowned Junior Lifesaver of the Year and all will be attending the Youth Development Camp.

This award is open only to junior club members in the U14 age group who have demonstrated dedication to their club and leadership potential throughout their time as juniors.

Birubi Point’s SLSC NSW Junior Lifesaver nomination is 13-year-old Angus Tonks from Anna Bay.

“I love helping the community and I love the water, so lifesaving is perfect for me,” Angus Tonks told Bay News Of The Area.

“I started Nippers last year and then went into Cadets this year; I was so excited to hear the news that I had been nominated,” Angus said.

Each candidate gained their Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC) in the U14s of the current season, and have completed their time at ‘Nippers’, now graduating to serving on patrol in their SLS red and yellow uniform.

Each candidate is interviewed and assessed on their knowledge of SLS, their active involvement within their own surf club and extended community, their leadership skills, communication and presentation skills, and their plans for their own future role within Surf Lifesaving.

Many previous attendees of the camp have gone on to hold key leadership roles within their clubs and branches and it is hoped that the class of 2017 will follow in their footsteps.

An interview process will take place with one boy and one girl chosen to represent the Hunter Branch of SLSC, with the winners going forward to compete against other regions within NSW.

The winner will then become the Junior Lifesaver of the Year.

Birubi Point SLSC Youth Development Coordinator Sam Faragher, believes that while being named the NSW Junior Lifesaver of the year is a great achievement, the opportunity to make contact with young leaders from other clubs and be exposed to leadership techniques is a great benefit to all of those who attend.

Bay News Of The Area wishes Angus Tonks all the best with his nomination and look forward to seeing what happens next in this young man’s life.

By Jewell DRURY