Becoming a Surf Lifeguard can be both fun and rewarding plus a great way to actively support your community as a volunteer.

Omaha Beach SLSC provide Surf Lifeguard Award Training courses every year usually targeting exam dates leading up to, or just after the start of the summer patrol season.

For detailed information about becoming a Surf Lifeguard click here.

To be kept up to date with any upcoming Surf Lifeguard Award training courses at Omaha Beach SLSC, and any specific course information please contact the club mail@omahasurf.co.nz.

We are also able to offer a Patrol Support qualification. This award covers all the same content as the Surf Lifeguard Award, but it does not include any of the water components. You will join the Surf Lifeguard Award candidates on the same course for all the training except the pool and sea.

For detailed information about becoming a Patrol Support click here.

Once you have qualified as a Surf Lifeguard or Patrol Support, you will need to complete an annual refresher to remain proficient and up to date with the latest requirements and best practices. 

 All lifeguards are required to undergo refresher training every year to ensure they can carry out lifesaving activities in a way that is safe for them, other members and the public.

Here are some tips to prepare yourself for becoming a Surf Lifeguard Award.

• If you a keen to become a Surf Lifeguard, its a good idea to start swimming regularly (ideally 2-3 times a week). The Surf Lifeguard Award pool component of the exam, requires that you can swim 400m continuous front crawl in under 9 minutes. The surf club will provide some pool sessions but extra sessions are good to build your swim fitness and confidence.
• Purchase or have use of your own surf fins and a wetsuit if possible. Surf fins have a heel strap instead of a fully closed heel like pool flippers. The strap makes the fins more secure in the surf and are an essential piece of lifeguard kit. It is advisable to try them on and make sure they are a good fit. Most surf shops will stock fins and wetsuits or be able to source them for you.