A Sunshine Coast surf lifesaving club has capped a standout season with national recognition.
Kawana Waters Surf Life Saving Club has been crowned Surf Life Saving Australia’s Club of the Year for 2025/26, after also collecting the honour at Sunshine Coast branch and Queensland levels.
The national award follows a period of significant membership growth and expanded lifesaving programs at the club.
Kawana Waters SLSC reported 703 members during the season, including 41 per cent growth in youth membership.
The club said its volunteers completed 9940 patrol hours, performed 15,189 preventive actions and carried out 14 rescues.
It also introduced a veterans patrol in partnership with Kawana Waters RSL Sub-Branch, established its first all-women patrol and expanded youth development opportunities.
Club president Shane Gale said the recognition reflected the contribution of the wider club community.
“What makes Kawana special is our people,” he said.
“To be recognised at branch, state and now national level is an incredible honour and something our entire community can be proud of.”
The national honour comes after Kawana Waters SLSC was named Marsh Club of the Year at the Surf Life Saving Queensland Awards of Excellence in September.
The state organisation highlighted the club’s growth, member retention and volunteer development as part of its transformation in recent years.
Kawana Waters SLSC is also planning a redevelopment intended to support its lifesaving operations, training and community activities.
The Queensland Government’s 2025-26 Budget included $10m to rebuild the club.
Kawana Waters said further investment would be required to deliver the full redevelopment and it was seeking additional funding, corporate sponsorship and community partnerships.
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