Following another successful season providing voluntary lifesaving cover on Exmouth beach, members of the Exmouth Beach Rescue Club took some well-earned time out last Friday to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the club.
The charity, established in 1986 to keep beach users safe in the absence of a full time lifeguard service, held a party at Ocean for current and past members, families, supporters and sponsors.
About 150 people turned out to help the club reminisce, give thanks to supporters and celebrate the achievements of the club. Those who came were treated to fish and chips from local chip shop, Krispies, and music from the fabulous Go Tell Alice.
The evening also recognised the achievements of members over the past year, with presentations being made to newly qualified lifeguards, lifesavers and coaches, as well as the annual awards as follows:
Tracey Simpson received the Clubman award for her dedication and commitment to the club. Tracey doesn’t miss a training session and helps everyone she can. She was also responsible for the fantastic food we were able to provide at this year’s surf lifesaving national championships.
The Competition award was presented to Scott Simpson-Currie in recognition of his dedication to surf lifesaving sport, and to celebrate the gold medal he won in beach flags at the nationals this year.
Lillie Johnson received the Most Improved Member award. Lillie has come on leaps and bounds since joining the club and her confidence and skill on the water has improved greatly.
The Best Senior award was handed to Vicky Gall, the club’s vice-captain, for her continued support to the club even through her study and work life. As the club currently has no captain, Vicky has also been stepping up to cover the role of captain.
Jake Butt received the Best Junior award for his consistent dedication, attendance and support.
Two members jointly received the Captain’s Cup – Eva Waddell and Martha Bowden. The girls have really grown over the last season, receiving their lifeguard qualifications and working as lifeguards for the RNLI. They have truly stepped up, taking training sessions and additional responsibilities. They have both grown in confidence and brought their newly learned skills from the RNLI back to the club.
Finally, Tracey Simpson received the Members’ Choice award. The recipient of this award is chosen by the members following a nomination process and Tracey was the clear winner. Members wanted to celebrate Tracey’s kind, supportive and helpful nature and recognise her for the hard work she put in keeping everyone fed at the nationals.
Members now head into their winter training programme to ensure they are ready for the 2017 season!
