Waihī Beach lifeguards step up at Intermediate Lifeguard School

Three Waihī Beach surf lifeguards, Byron McIntyre, Emma Page and Millie Watson, recently took part in the SLSNZ Eastern Region Intermediate Lifeguard School, staying at Pāpāmoa and completing a full weekend of development activities around Mount Maunganui.

The two-day camp is designed for young lifeguards who have been patrolling for one to two seasons and are ready to take the next step in their lifeguarding pathway. Through a mix of theory, practical sessions and scenario-based learning, candidates build confidence, capability and a deeper understanding of what it means to be an effective surf lifeguard.

The weekend started with icebreakers, goal-setting and an “amazing race” around the campground, with candidates expected to stay rescue-ready with tubes and fins close by.

Saturday brought an early start, with physical training before heading into activities around Leisure Island. The group worked through rock navigation, tube and board rescues, first aid, CPR, defibrillator use, and bleeding management. There were also sessions focused on lifeguarding pathways, leadership, and working with external agencies, including police, fire, and ambulance. 

They all enjoyed the insight into working for SurfCom, the national, 24/7 communications and coordination centre that connects lifeguards with emergency services and Search and Rescue (SAR) squads.

For both Millie and Emma, the biggest learning came during the realistic night time scenarios. Emma was put into a first aid scenario involving two patients on methamphetamine.

“I was the leader in that scenario. We had to try to contain one person and look after another female patient who was hypothermic. We saved the lady, and I felt like I handled it well.”

Millie’s scenario involved multiple patients, including one person injured in a tree, while another was difficult to manage due to alcohol.

“I was on comms, reporting back to the tower. It was hard because the patients weren’t listening and I learned heaps from that.”

Daytime scenarios included a missing person, two drownings, and an ATV crash. Byron said, “All the scenarios have given us heaps more confidence around dealing with incidents on the beach.”

For Millie, Emma, and Byron, it was a demanding but valuable step forward, building the confidence and practical skills needed to keep growing as capable Waihī Beach surf lifeguards.

A huge thank you goes to the Eastern Region organisers, instructors and mentors who made the school such a valuable experience. Their time, knowledge and support helped create a challenging, encouraging environment for our young lifeguards.

If you are keen to become a surf lifeguard and access similar opportunities for growth and development, Waihī Beach Lifeguard Services is always on the look out for volunteer surf lifeguards. 

Read more https://www.waihibeachlifeguards.co.nz/become-a-surf-lifeguard/