With her family history in surf lifesaving, an award for Alyssa Norris might not surprise, but being named youth volunteer lifesaver of the year still managed to amaze the 23-year-old, who has felt the sands of Windang between her toes her whole life.
Alyssa, feted at the annual Surf Life Saving NSW Awards of Excellence in August, said the honour was ''definitely unexpected – and really special''.
''I had so many friends and family in the room because I’ve met so many people through lifesaving,” says Alyssa, the Windang club's vice-captain.
“Everyone in that room have all done amazing things, so to get to that stage, let alone be nominated – you’re up against some real tough people doing incredible stuff for their clubs and for communities.
“It’s an award where you don’t get upset if you don't win, because if someone is doing more, then how awesome is that?”
Alyssa’s award is a triumph for Windang SLSC, which has only 26 members compared to clubs in Sydney, which commonly have more than 200 members. She credits the club for providing her with support and opportunities to succeed.
“Our members take on a lot of hours and commitment. It’s a very strong community and very family oriented. A lot of our members are made up of families. It's very supportive,” Alyssa says.
Alyssa has been involved in surf life saving her whole life as both of her parents are life members and have been with the club for more than 30 years.
“My parents are definitely role models for me. My dad was a nipper when he was six, and now he’s 50-something and still there. What’s really special is that the rookie program I currently co-run is one my mum started back in 2000. I’m definitely following her footsteps,” Alyssa says.
Alyssa and co-rookie coordinator Chae Conte work with young members aged 12-14, helping them make a smooth transition from nippers to more advanced patrol and lifesaving roles. Alyssa and Chae aim to provide fun, creative and collaborative learning experiences, such as their recent Amazing Race-style scavenger hunt and joint first aid training with neighbouring clubs.
“I’m very passionate about helping the young lifesavers and training them. We get the new young kids and teach them, help their confidence,” Alyssa says.
“The program is designed to be inclusive. Chae and I emphasise that strong swimming skills or existing family ties to the club aren’t required – there’s a place for everyone. One girl who had previously faced bullying at school found new confidence and friendships through completing her Bronze Medallion.”
Windang SLSC was formed in 1957 by passionate volunteers looking to ensure surf safety for local families and beach visitors, and people of all ages and abilities can join. Along with the other 16 clubs in the Illawarra, Windang SLSC offers members a chance to get active and compete in surf sport, earn lifesaving qualifications or simply relax at the beach and connect socially.
“You can join a whole community of like-minded people. Everyone's there for the core reason of wanting to help the community and give back,” Alyssa says.
“There’s something different for any interest – you can pursue what you’re passionate about. The more you put in, the more you get out.
“You don't have to be that fit to rescue someone. There’s still jet skis and boards to help with that. It’s a very versatile role, and the club makes being a lifesaver open to everyone.”
Surf lifesaving clubs around the Illawarra held open days last weekend to recruit members ahead of the busy swim season.
“We're really lucky because we've got some amazing trainers and assessors,” Alyssa says. ''We are one of the most skilled lot of people – we've all got all the awards, but just not enough people. So we're always looking for anyone who wants to do anything – even sitting on the beach or helping out.”
Learn more on the club's website
