Celebrating International Women's Day

A message from Steven Pearce AFSM - Chief Executive Officer SLSNSW

Today, Thursday 8 March 2018 marks the celebration of International Women’s Day. As such, I wanted to acknowledge, recognise and thank the wonderful women within our current and past lifesaving ranks and staff for the contributions that you have, are, and continue to provide to SLSNSW.
 
With over 42% of our membership being female, it is only prudent and just, we celebrate this day with you.
 
To think it was only back in 1981 that women were first allowed to become lifesavers and patrol our NSW coastline, we certainly have come a long way. One of the most remarkable stories of how women have contributed to SLSNSW was back in World War 2. With the war raging, 72 of Terrigal’s 76 patrolling surf club members had enlisted in the army, air force or navy. With just 4 male members left, there were not enough lifesavers to man the patrols, so their wives, girlfriends, sisters, daughters and female friends took over lifesaving duties.
 
In the face of enormous  community and social resistance, these women forged ahead regardless and went on to patrol Terrigal for 2 seasons in 1942 and 1943. These women were nothing less than pioneers!. There are many more examples.
 
Congratulations to all our SLSNSW women today, and thankyou again for the enormous contribution you provide to our organisation.