ISSUE 12
- Beth Landon
- Feb 25
- 3 min read
For our 12th issue, learn about what used to be one of Australia’s greatest maritime mysteries. Our Surf Boat Rowing teams have once again been competing. Hear more about their outstanding results below. Meet lifesaver Lucy Landon, who has been at our club for 6 years!
GENERAL NEWS
BEYOND THE BREAK
Today, Port Kembla is famous for its white sand beaches and optimal recreation opportunities. It is well known that it is home to an abundance of sea life. However, little is known about what else lies underneath the crystal clear waters.
The shipwreck of the SS Nemesis was one of Australia’s greatest maritime mysteries. The shipwreck was suspected to be located off the coast of Wollongong, yet the exact location remained a mystery for decades.
On July 9, 1904, the SS Nemesis set sail from Newcastle to Melbourne transporting coal and coke across the ocean. Just over halfway through its voyage, the ship was struck by a southerly gale, causing the ship to sink.
After lying undiscovered for around 120 years, in May 2022, the SS Nemesis was discovered 26-28 km off the coast of Port Kembla, at a depth of 160 meters.
The discovery of this SS Nemesis is just one example of the extensive history Port Kembla has.
* Nsw.gov.au. (2022). Nemesis | NSW Environment, Energy and Science. [online] Available at: https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/maritimeheritageapp/ViewSiteDetail.aspx?siteid=890#database [Accessed 17 Feb. 2026].
MOMENTS ON PATROL
15/2/2026
On February 15, it was a quiet day down at the beach as the water was a bit choppy. Nonetheless, patrol 1 and 2 had a great day on the sand.
22/2/2026
It was a sunny day down at the beach last Sunday. Both the Nippers and the patrols enjoyed a day filled with swimming, paddling and looking after the beach!
SPORT
THE ASRL CHAMPIONSHIPS
The Australian Surf Rowers League (ASRL) Open, is the largest, annual, rowing competition, bringing together surf clubs from all over Australia, including our own.
From February 12 - 15, four of our leading rowing teams took to Wanda Beach for races full of adrenaline, fun and stiff competition.
Port Kembla Blue started the day of strong, coming 3rd in the Masters 180 years (combined) race.
It was then time for our reserve male team, Port Kembla Pork Knuckles, to take to the surf, reaching the shore in 7th place.
Following this, our open women’s team, the Port Kembla Parasites, took home 4th place in the competition!
Finally, the open men’s, Happy G’s finished off the day by placing 27th, an amazing effort considering the highly experienced competition.
With only ten more weeks of the season, our rowers still have a couple competitions left. This weekend our rowing teams will be taking to Swansea beach!
LIFESAVER SPOTLIGHT
LUCY LANDON
How long have you been a lifesaver?
6 years!
What has been your biggest accomplishment this season?
This season I had the pleasure of taking a bronze course for 12 amazing members. I love being able to pass on my skills and inspire the next generation of surf life savers.
Why do you like patrolling?
I like the sense of community that patrolling provides as you get closer with your patrol members throughout the season. It allows you to interact with different people and build life skills whilst giving back to the community.
What is your most memorable moment from patrol?
I really enjoy having a laugh or messing around with the team.
COMING UP...
1/3/2026 - Patrol 3 (9:00 am - 1:30pm) & Patrol 4 (1:30 pm - 6:00 pm)
8/3/2026 - Patrol 9 (9:00 am - 1:30pm) & Patrol 10 (1:30 pm - 6:00 pm)
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