Participating in Surf Lifesaving sporting events is an important extra activity in all clubs. Some take it more seriously than others.

Here at Wye, we try to find a happy medium between those who see it as a way of increasing the prestige of the club and those who have no interest in sending members to Regional, State, National and International Surf Lifesaving carnivals.

Competition has a number of benefits for active patrolling members. It encourages improvement in skills needed for patrolling, plus the fitness to carry out those skills. It creates team building bonds of friendships within our club and with members of other clubs you meet and compete against at carnivals. Just ask Gemma and Joel how far this might take you! For those who are keen to reach elite status, there are pathways available to reach your full potential in the sport.

So at Wye, we value those who wish to compete and we support your participation. As well as our Club Championships, there are events in First Aid, Beach & Water, Endurance, Champion Patrollers, IRB and Surf Boats that you can pursue. Members with a disability can participate in the Adaptive program at carnivals.

Nippers can start at U/7 and age groups continue up to Masters of all ages. Each season, Lifesaving Victoria begins holding Junior (U/7 - U13) and Senior (U/14, U/15, U17 & Open age) Carnivals from late November through to State Championships in February/March, leading on to National Championships (Aussies) in March/April. Every two years there are International Championships in (mostly) locations overseas, for those looking for a chance to compete on a world stage (or just to plan a holiday with people who share your passion for the beach.)

We can all run, swim and paddle a bit but Surf Lifesaving sport gives you a chance to develop these skills with the help of the club and your friends.