IRB Overview

So you’ve got your Bronze Medallion and you’re looking for next challenge? IRB is here to help!

Crewing an IRB (Inflatable Rescue Boat) is one of the most hands-on and rewarding roles in surf lifesaving. You'll learn to launch through surf, pick up conscious and unconscious patients, and handle whatever the ocean throws at you. Not only are you guaranteed to get more rescues, it’s also one of the most fun courses you can do in Surf Lifesaving!

IRB Crew are still required to patrol on the beach and when not in the IRB, are patrolling Bronze Members on rotations. Crew members (and drivers), will take turns in the IRB, ensuring everyone gets time and opportunity to keep their skills up once they have gained their qualification.

Entry Requirements
  1. Be at least 15 years of age on the date of final assessment
  2. Be currently proficient in SLSA Bronze Medallion
Course Requirements

Prior to assessment, participants should complete:

Eight (8) nominal hours of practical demonstration, where the participant is actively performing tasks as a trainee IRB Crewperson;

  • With at least 50% of the nominal hours to be sea time;
  • Over at least three (3) separate days;
  • In a variety of conditions.
Course Content

Understand the roles and responsibilities of an IRB Crew person including:

  • List the duties of an IRB Crew person and obligations as a vessel crew
  • Demonstrate knowledge of regulatory maritime safety requirements and exemption requirements relevant to vessel crew
  • Demonstrate an understanding of common IRB tasks and operating environments
  • List the safety considerations and key risks when crewing an IRB
  • Communicate effectively with IRB Driver, patients, and external emergency service personnel in the performance of duties.

Crew an IRB

  • Prepare the components of an IRB and auxiliary equipment

  • Contribute to the safe and efficient launching of an IRB

  • Demonstrate safe crewing positions while negotiating the surf

  • Identify key risks in the operating environment and clearly communicate them to the driver

  • Perform rescues, including conscious and unconscious patient pick-ups

  • Perform emergency procedures

  • Assist with the safe deployment of a single buoy, line and anchor arrangement.

Prepare and maintain an IRB

  • Perform pre-operational checks and preventative maintenance of the IRB hull and auxiliary equipment

  • Perform post-operational maintenance of the IRB hull and auxiliary equipment

  • Complete organisational documentation as required, including reporting major equipment wear or damage or personal injury.

Introduction to Search and Rescue techniques

  • Understand search and rescue techniques and search patterns

  • Demonstrate search and rescue techniques in a patrol environment

Annual Skills Maintenance

For this award to remain current, candidates must complete an annual skills maintenance