Advanced guards passed in style

UP FOR THE CHALLENGE: Wainui surf lifeguards Steffan John (above) and Louis Birkhead faced some tough tasks last weekend at the national lifeguard school in Taranaki. They both passed their Advanced Lifeguard Award after three days of skills training, that included jumping out of helicopters. Pictures supplied

by Murray Robertson

WAINUI lifeguards Louis Birkhead and Steffan John acquitted themselves well at the national surf lifeguard school last weekend, passing the Advanced Lifeguard Award with flying colours.

They were among 20 of New Zealand’s best volunteer surf lifeguards at the school, which was based at Fitzroy Beach in New Plymouth.

Louis, aged 17, and Steffan, aged 30, were put through a range of advanced skills challenges that included rock rescues, rescue helicopter operations, advanced first aid and rigorous fitness tests.

“All the participants will take those specialised skills back to their local beaches around the country, which will ultimately help save lives and keep beachgoers safer during the upcoming holiday season,” said national education manager for SLSNZ Belinda Slement.

“Conditions in New Plymouth also made for perfect learning opportunities to put the candidates through their paces, with consistent swell, sun and wind,” said Mrs Slement.

“Both Louis and Steffan showed clear development in their advanced IRB skills, first aid and search and rescue,” she said.

“Steffan was a standout during the school’s first aid scenarios and showed great leadership and patient care.

“Louis shone through during the IRB skills and rock swimming and rescues,” Mrs Slement said.

“The Wainui club should be proud of the performance and effort both guys put in during the weekend.”