National Leaders’ Masterclass a success

Alongside 15 of Australia’s most passionate Surf Life Saving leaders, Russell Price (Mandurah) and Sandy Clarke (Mullaloo) represented WA and their clubs at the 2019 National Leaders’ Masterclass, held at the University of South Australia, from Thursday 12 – Sunday 15, September.

Both Sandy and Russell applied for the opportunity with hopes of challenging themselves, broadening their skills, and collaborating with like-minded members from diverse clubs.

When asked about his experiences and highlights, Russell said that not only did he take away valuable information from the learning modules, but he also gained many ideas from the other members in the room.

“The lessons I learnt over the four days will influence my work at Mandurah Surf Life Saving Club, my professional career and life in general,” he said.

“The course has re-affirmed some of my thoughts on strategic thinking, as well as taught me a whole lot more.”

When asked about the program curriculum, Sandy explained how the group grew together as they explored entrepreneurship and innovation skills, as well as various concepts of strategic thinking.

“We thought about relevant adaptations that could be done within our clubs and states, and how they may influence our own management and approach to decision making,” she said.

“There was a diverse mix of clubs at various stages of growth, size and location, and it was through everyone opening up and working together on various tasks that a far greater understanding of the complexities and how they could be better managed from the different viewpoints was achieved.

“It’s great that SLSA is able to offer opportunities to create environments that encourage and foster this type of development”.

The annual leadership and development program provides members who hold a senior leadership role at their club the opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge as they complete elements of the internationally recognised Graduate Certificate of Business Administration, providing them the opportunity to continue on with further study following their completion of the Masterclass should they wish.

Overall, both members thoroughly enjoyed the experience and thanked Surf Life Saving for the opportunity. Surf Life Saving WA looks forward to following these members on their future endeavours, as they put the skills gained into practice at their clubs.