Training & Assessment
Courses, dates and pathways to build your lifesaving skills.
Save the Date
Dates subject to change due to conditions or TAF availability
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27 Sep, All DaySkills Maintenance (CPR & IRB)
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18 Oct, 10AM–1PMSkills Maintenance (SRC, BM & IRB)
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11 Nov, 5:30PM–8:30PMSkills Maintenance (SRC & BM)
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6 Dec, 10AM–1PMSkills Maintenance (SRC, BM, ARTFA & IRB)
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27 Dec, All DaySkills Maintenance (SRC, BM, ARTFA & IRB)
Course & Program Expression of Interest
Lifesaving Camp
Fairhaven Lifesaving Camp is a long-standing part of our community, primarily aimed at 15–16 year olds. Each December we run two camps: the Bronze Medallion Camp for those beginning their lifesaving journey, and the Advanced Awards Camp for qualified Bronze Medallion holders extending their skills.
Based at the Fairhaven SLSC Bunkhouse and Surf Club, candidates take part in a combination of water training, practical sessions, theory, assessment and social activities. Supported by Fairhaven’s experienced team of volunteer trainers and instructors, Lifesaving Camp is designed to build confidence, teamwork, leadership and practical skills that candidates can take onto patrol and into future roles within the Club.
Registrations open early November
Stand Alone Courses
Individual courses for members not attending Lifesaving Camp.
Registrations open early December
Program Fees
Lifesaving Camp
Bronze Medallion
$750
Advanced Awards
$700
Instructor
$200
Stand Alone Courses
Bronze Medallion
$100
SRC
$100
About Our Courses & Programs
Lifesaving Camp
Fairhaven's annual Lifesaving Camp offers two pathways for candidates aged 15 and 16. Candidates can achieve the Bronze Medallion and/or complete Advanced Awards components in First Aid and Advanced Resuscitation Techniques. We recommend obtaining the Bronze Medallion first (minimum age 15), which covers basic first aid and surf rescue skills. Advanced Awards candidates usually return for a second year, building more advanced skills while providing water safety for Bronze candidates. Led by highly experienced volunteer instructors, the program is proud of its strong outcomes and inclusive approach, welcoming participants of any background or experience level.
Bronze Medallion
The BM trains you to become a lifesaver on the beach and is the stepping stone to other lifesaving awards. You'll learn to read and negotiate the surf, patrol as part of a team, provide CPR and basic first aid, and use rescue equipment. You'll need a timed swim beforehand, then attend the course to work through practical components and a workbook, before a final written and practical assessment. This award is reassessed annually at Skills Maintenance. Fairhaven runs BM during pre-Christmas Lifesaving Camp and again post-Christmas.
SRC (Surf Rescue Certificate)
Like the Bronze Medallion, the SRC is a gateway award, providing core skills to act in a patrol team and contribute to rescue and first aid events. Requirements mirror the BM: a timed swim, practical course components, a workbook, and a written and practical assessment. Reassessed annually at Skills Maintenance, unless superseded by achieving the Bronze Medallion. Fairhaven runs one SRC course over the post-Christmas period.
Advanced Resuscitation Techniques (ART)
In serious medical emergencies, ART holders take the lead in managing patients. This award covers patient assessment, Bag and Mask ventilator use, asthma management, airway suctioning, and use of a Semi-Automatic External Defibrillator, building on the resuscitation and oxygen skills learnt in the Bronze Medallion. Reassessed annually at Skills Maintenance.
First Aid
A nationally recognised award covering common occupational medical problems. Open to anyone — no Bronze Medallion required. The award expires every 3 years, requiring a full course repeat; the CPR component expires annually and is updated via the Resuscitation course.
IRB Crew & IRB Driver
The IRB is one of our most effective rescue tools, and Crew/Driver awards provide the skill and dexterity to use it safely — a crucial part of lifesaving operations. Candidates must hold a current Bronze Medallion and be at least 15 (Crew) or 17 (Driver) on assessment day. Course requirements follow the usual pattern: practical components, a workbook, and a written and practical assessment. Reassessed annually at Skills Maintenance. Fairhaven typically runs IRB camps outside the main season when instructor resources allow.
Training & Assessment Queries
Director – Training & Assessment
Abbey West
Chief Assessor
Julia Clarke
Chief Instructor
Chloe Sharpe