Students from the QA Surf Lifesavers (CAS Group) recently joined the annual Bush to Beach initiative, working alongside members of the Mermaid Beach AEME Surf Life Saving Club to welcome visiting schools from inland New South Wales. The event brought together students from Toomelah Public School and Boggabilla Central School, both located in the Goondiwindi region near the NSW–Queensland border.
The Bush to Beach program offers young people from regional and remote communities the chance to experience the coast, learn about surf safety, and connect with others through fun and inclusive beach activities. For many of the visiting students, it was their first time seeing the ocean. It is also a reward for positive behaviour and attendance throughout the year.
Our qualified QA Surf Lifesavers played an important role as water safety officers during the afternoon session at HOTA lake, and again while on patrol at Mermaid Beach SLSC over the weekend. They were joined by new members of the QA Surf Lifesavers, who assisted with games and helped the visiting students build confidence in and around the water.
The day was filled with energy and teamwork, reflecting the spirit of surf lifesaving and the value of giving back to the community.
A sincere thank you to Mermaid Beach AEME Surf Life Saving Club, the Bush to Beach organisers, and our QA Surf Lifesavers for representing the Academy with such enthusiasm, leadership and care. Our team have been provided with an opportunity to further lead the program in 2026 – stay tuned!
Dion Obst
HOD Global Connect