SLSWA History

The Surf Life Saving movement in Western Australia was founded at Cottesloe beach in 1909 (after originating at Bondi Beach in 1907) in response to a number of drowning incidents on the beach. Over the next 20 years a number of additional clubs commenced operations around the metropolitan and regional coast.

In 1926 the clubs met to determine a peak body to support and advocate on their behalf, hence Surf Life Saving Western Australia was born. Since that time been SLSWA’s charter has been to assist in the ongoing development and growth of our club structure and to identify and meet the needs of our stakeholders, those principally being the general public, our members, tourists and local government authorities.

Since 1909, 28 Surf Life Saving clubs have been established around our coastline and over 16,000 volunteer members make a significant contribution to their communities.

Business Description

Surf lifesaving in Western Australia is a volunteer based not-for-profit community service association providing an essential educational and emergency rescue service to all users of West Australian beaches. Surf Life Saving Western Australia is the key agency for beach safety and a vital community service playing a fundamental role in building healthy communities.

Our activities address many community and Government policies such as safer communities, obesity, physical activity, youth development, training and education, and family.

Surf Life Saving Western Australia comprises of a State centre, 28 Surf Life Saving clubs located around the coastline and over 16,000 members who all share the vision: ‘Saving Lives and Building Great Communities.’