Australian lifesaving records

A 175 strong contingent of lifesavers descended on Brisbane from 19-22 January to battle it out for title of pool lifesaver of the year.

Litres of chlorine, over 170 competitors, and 15 new national records was the result of four days of competition at the Australian Pool Lifesaving Championships held in Brisbane.

New South Wales retained their dominance on pool lifesaving in Australia by placing first overall for the third successive year.


A 175 strong contingent of lifesavers descended on Brisbane from 19-22 January to battle it out for title of pool lifesaver of the year.

Litres of chlorine, over 170 competitors, and 15 new national records was the result of four days of competition at the Australian Pool Lifesaving Championships held in Brisbane.

New South Wales retained their dominance on pool lifesaving in Australia by placing first overall for the third successive year.

A close contest throughout the four days of competition, the Western Australia team was only ever separated from the lead by a few points, but never moved from second place, with the Victorian team coming in third. The 2006 Australian pool Lifesaving Championships will be held in Geelong, Victoria.

Concluding on the weekend, the Australian Pool Lifesaving Championships are an annual event conducted by Royal Life Saving. Events held at the Australian Pool Lifesaving Championships determine the competitor’s ability in lifesaving with events simulating real situations which a lifesaver would encounter.

Competing in events including manikin tow and rescue, line throw, and obstacle relay competitors have had the opportunity to display their skills as they vie for a place on the national team.

The top eight competitors were rewarded with a place in the Aussie Barra’s’ team, a four male, four female member team who will represent at international competition. Their first opportunity to represent Australia is only weeks away, as they will participate in the South African National Championships in February 2005.

The dominance of the NSW team was cemented with two competitors representing NSW named Male and Female Lifesaver of the Year. The accolades went to Mitchell Parkes and Sarah Windsor.