ISSUE 14
- Beth Landon
- 6d
- 3 min read
In this issue, we look at the sponsor behind our renovations at the surf club. Hear from our Nippers President, Chamkaur Dhaliwal, about the success of this season. Get to know one of our newest members, Laura Calleja!
GENERAL NEWS
FINAL ISSUE ON APRIL 15
On April 15, our 15th issue of this blog will be released. This will be our last regular issue of the season and will include a season wrap up from some of our committee members. The blog will also revisit some of our favourite moments from the 2025 - 2026 season that we have featured in our blog!
THE SPONSOR BEHIND OUR RENOVATIONS
After recently establishing themselves in Port Kembla, Squadron Energy have partnered with Port Kembla SLSC in what has been our surf clubs largest undertaking since our establishment.
Squadron Energy is providing funding to support PKSLSC’s building renovations, which will soon allow the club to become financially sustainable. Squadron Energy is committed to supporting the communities where their projects are based, and through this funding they will make a positive lasting contribution to the local Port Kembla community and broader Illawarra region.
MOMENTS ON PATROL
22/3/2026
With air temperatures being in the low - mid 20s, it was a cooler day on patrol for our lifesavers. Hazardous surf conditions were issued throughout the Illawarra due to large swells and intense wind.
29/3/2026
Sunday was a beautiful day, perfect for the Nippers presentation. Unfortunately, due to a clash in cold polar air and warm, humid air, there was a massive swell of around 10 feet, resulting in the ocean being unsafe.
NIPPERS
A NOTE FROM THE NIPPERS PRESIDENT
The 18-week 2025/26 season saw 173 nippers taking to the beach across U6 to U13. We had 5 cancellations due to weather, but we made the most of every Sunday we had - and really proud of what we did this season.
We finished it off with our presentation day at the clubhouse. Everyone enjoyed a sausage sizzle, ice cream, and a coffee van that kept the parents going. Each age group was presented with their certificates - U6 and U7 had a king of the hill award, and U8 through to U13 each had a top point score, most encouragement, and king of the hill. Great to see the kids recognised for their efforts.
We had 17 age managers volunteer their time across the season. Without them, none of this happens - a genuine thank you to each and every one of them.
Congratulations to Zahli Heywood who took out the overall point score for the season. Zahli is part of the McKeon Junior Development Squad and was a standout all season. Well deserved.
We also have 5 U13 kids potentially upskilling to their Surf Rescue Certificate next season - great to see the older group stepping up.
Looking ahead to 2026/27, we’re exploring development carnival participation, revisiting the season calendar to better accommodate families with winter sport commitments, and looking to grow our volunteer base further.
Thanks to every family who supported their kids this season. See you on the beach.
Chamkaur Dhaliwal
LIFESAVER SPOTLIGHT
LAURA CALLEJA
How long have you been a lifesaver?
Not very long, 2025/26 season was my first patrol.
What has been your biggest accomplishment this season?
Biggest accomplishment is being able to go on patrol with my daughter, who is also patrolling for the first time in 2025/26.
Why do you like patrolling?
Patrolling is fun and it is nice to feel like I am giving a little bit back to the community. Also the people (young and old) I have met and come to know through the club have been fantastic.
What is your most memorable moment from patrol?
The weather has been pretty memorable as it hasn't been the best, pretty much all season. It has also been great seeing the SRC cadets start patrolling (loudly at times!) and continue to have the friendships they have formed.
COMING UP...
3/4/2026 - Patrol 7 (9:00 am - 6:00 pm)
4/4/2026 - Patrol 6 (9:00 am - 6:00 pm)
5/4/2026 - Patrol 8 (9:00 am - 6:00 pm)
6/4/2026 - Patrol 3 (9:00 am - 1:30 pm) & Patrol 2 (1:30 pm - 6:00 pm)
12/4/2026 - Patrol 4 (9:00 am - 6:00 pm)
15/4/2026 - Final Issue Released
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