Become a Lifesaver at Bondi

Join Bondi Surf Bathers Life Saving Club (BSBLSC) and become part of a proud tradition of keeping our beaches safe. To become a patrolling member, you’ll need to complete either the SLSA Bronze Medallion (Certificate II in Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue) or the Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC).

BRONZE MEDALLION COURSE OVERVIEW

Course requirements

To participate in the Bronze Medallion course, you must:

  • Swim 400m freestyle in under 9 minutes in a pool
  • Attend all sessions (missing more than one session may impact your ability to continue)
  • Be 15 years or older
  • Commit to patrolling one half-day approximately every three weeks during the lifesaving season (September–April)
  • Be swim and run fit, able to lift/carry gear and patients with a team
  • Be able to perform CPR and roll a patient into recovery position
  • Hold a Working with Children Check if you’re 18+

Course requirements

  • Surf safety and identifying rips and currents
  • Surf rescue techniques and scenarios
  • First aid and resuscitation
  • Radio communications
  • Teamwork and leadership

Course Structure

Our Bronze Medallion courses run over eight weeks. Each course is made up of the following components:

  • Induction session & timed swim
  • One mid-week evening (Tues or Weds, 6.30pm start)*
  • One weekend morning (Sat or Sun, 8am start)*
  • Shadow patrols – one morning and one afternoon patrol – between weeks 3 & 7 of BM course
  • Part A assessment – theory
  • Part B assessment – practical

*check course dates here for details of days and times

Attendance Policy

Missing more than one session may prevent you from continuing. Much of the assessment is team-based, and your participation affects the whole group. Trainers will assess eligibility on a case-by-case basis if attendance is insufficient.

Expectations & Etiquette

Before enrolling, please ensure you are ready to commit to:
Attendance – there are no catch-up sessions
Teamwork – support and collaboration are essential
Respect – for fellow candidates, instructors, and facilities
Flexibility – conditions and schedules may change based on surf conditions and volunteer availability

What You Will Need to Provide

  • Wetsuit for wet skills training
  • Goggles and swimmers
  • Water bottle and snacks
  • A computer for your e-learning modules

2026/27 Course Dates

BM1: 20th September to 15th November 2026 (Wednesdays 6.30pm & Sundays 8am)

BM2: 10th October to 5th December 2026 (Tuesdays 6.30pm & Saturdays 8am)

BM3: 24th January to 21st March 2027 (Wednesdays 6.30pm & Sundays 8am)

BM4: 23rd January to 20th March 2027 (Tuesday 6.30pm & Saturdays 8am)

2026/27 Course fees

Bronze Medallion (adult)              $585
Bronze Medallion (15 – 18yrs)     $380

Nipper Parents & Associate BSBLSC Members receive a 20% discount on course fees.  Please contact the Office to receive this discount.

Fees include:
* full course training & materials
* patrol uniform and Club access fob
* membership fees for two seasons (current + following)

Note places are limited for under 18s.