We are delighted to celebrate Mattias Steljic, who has been awarded Youth Lifesaver of the Year by the Mermaid Beach AEME Surf Life Saving Club at their annual awards ceremony, presented by Division 12 Councillor Cr Nick Marshall.
In his first season as a qualified surf lifesaver, Mattias has made a meaningful contribution to both the club and QAHS. He was selected in the leadership group for the QA Lifesavers CAS Group, helped guide new members, and regularly supported training and patrol activities.
Mattias also played a key role in the Bush to Beach initiative, which is an outreach program that welcomes young people from inland and Indigenous communities to experience the beach and learn surf safety. As part of the initiative, Mattias helped introduce participants to the surf, shared his own knowledge, and created a fun and inclusive environment for first-time beachgoers.
Beyond patrol duties, he led a trial of Sundicators, a sun safety initiative using wearable UV indicators. He also conducted primary research with QA Lifesavers, providing valuable feedback to support the development of this local innovation.
A proud member of Avent Patrol, Mattias continues to volunteer on Mermaid Beach alongside current QAHS students and alumni, including Hannah Provenzano (Class of 2023). Both Mattias and Hannah featured in Surf Life Saving Queensland's recent campaign video, which highlighted youth engagement, diversity and the growing impact of community surf lifesaving programs.
In a recent Meet a Mermaid Member feature, Mattias shared:
“What I love most is the community I've formed at Mermaid Beach—making friends on patrol, connecting with people through different programs, and just meeting so many amazing people I wouldn't have otherwise."
He also offered this advice to beachgoers:
“Always be aware. Stay between the red and yellow flags, look out for others, and make sure you're looking after yourself—especially with sunscreen and knowing your limits in the surf."
Congratulations, Mattias, on this well-earned recognition and your outstanding contribution to surf lifesaving and community leadership.
Dion Obst
HOD Global Connect