Membership and volunteering
Surf Life Saving is more than patrols on the beach. It is a community of people learning skills, supporting each other, staying active and helping keep South Australian beaches safer.
Membership options
Each club is different, but most offer a mix of junior, youth, adult, family, social, sport and volunteer pathways. The right option depends on your age, interests and how involved you want to be.
A great entry point for children and families. Nippers helps young people build surf awareness, confidence, teamwork and beach safety skills in a fun club environment.
Youth members can build lifesaving skills, take on leadership opportunities, participate in sport, and become part of a strong volunteer community.
Active members train, patrol and help provide lifesaving services at the beach. Training is provided, and clubs will guide new members through the steps required.
Surf sports provide opportunities to stay active, compete, train with others and develop practical lifesaving skills through beach and water-based activities.
Not everyone joins to patrol or compete. Many people join for the club community, social connection, events, fundraising or to support their local surf lifesaving club.
Some clubs offer inclusive or adaptive programs to help more people participate safely and confidently. Availability varies by club, so it is worth asking what each club can support.
Volunteering options
Surf Life Saving clubs rely on people with many different skills. Some roles are on the beach, while others help behind the scenes. Clubs can help match your interests, skills and availability to a suitable role.
Join a patrol team, learn lifesaving skills and help provide a visible safety presence at the beach.
Support members to build skills in first aid, rescue, radio communications, leadership and beach safety.
Help junior and youth members participate, learn, develop confidence and feel welcome at the club.
Assist with carnivals, water safety, officiating, team support, equipment and local club events.
Help with administration, governance, communications, fundraising, grants, maintenance or member support.
Short on time? Many clubs need occasional help at events, working bees, fundraising days or club activities.
Not sure where to start?
You do not need to know exactly which membership type is right for you. Find a club near you, send your details, and the club can help explain the best option based on your age, interests and availability.
