A new generation of female lifeguards will hit Newcastle’s beaches this summer, as the city prepares for another busy patrol season.
Lexi Sutherland and Bronte Bowker are the latest recruits to complete Newcastle’s six-week lifeguard trainee program, working alongside experienced mentors to gain hands on experience across the city’s beaches and ocean baths.
Their graduation comes as the number of female lifeguards patrolling Newcastle reaches an all-time high, with women now making up about 40 per cent of the workforce.
City of Newcastle Executive Manager Community and Recreation Lynn Duffy said the program was helping build a strong pipeline of professional lifeguards.
“We know some Councils are struggling to fill lifeguard roles because it’s a seasonal job that requires a unique set of skills,” Ms Duffy said.
“Our program helps us maintain a dedicated team of professional lifeguards who have comprehensive knowledge of our beaches and our procedures.”
Launched in 2021 in partnership with Hunter Surf Life Saving, the trainee program was the first of its kind in NSW and has already created a pathway into the profession.
According to Ms Duffy, every participant has returned to work for City of Newcastle as a professional lifeguard in some capacity.
For Lexi and Bronte, who are beginning their HSC, the program offered an opportunity to turn their experience in surf lifesaving into a career.
With Bronte, a core member of the Merewether team that won the Under 19 female ski relay title and Lexi, who broke out of the masses, going onto win the Under 17 female ironperson title in March said she had initially applied because she wanted to create friendships through the program.
“I developed so many new skills and had amazing learning experiences that I hope to keep building on this season,” she said.
Bronte said the program gave her valuable insight into the role across morning and afternoon shifts while building her confidence in handling different situations.
Applications for this summer’s trainee program close on 6 October, with successful applicants to gain practical experience before potentially joining Newcastle’s professional lifeguard ranks.
Lifeguard patrols return to Newcastle beaches Saturday 26 September.
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