After three days of intense competition, exciting finishes in line throw and manikin-tow, the Victorian state team was crowned the champions of the Royal Life Saving Australian Pool Lifesaving Championships.
The championships saw competitors travel from across Australia to Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre. Here, the “do or die” approach is redefined as each event has a real-life application and precision as important as speed and agility.
Strong competition came from the Western Australian state teams and the New South Wales team. The Victorian team won the title. The title was held by NSW for five consecutive events.
The Victorian State Team won the overall points count and also took home the Laerdal CPR Trophy. They had won the Open, Under-16, and Under-19 divisions.
Internationally, pool lifesaving is one the three core disciplines of the sport of lifesaving. Pool lifesaving is a combination of ocean and beach lifesaving. It tests your ability to swim, rescue and take initiative in still water.
The Lifesavers at the Meet were Jake Smith, WA State Team Open, and Chelsea Jones, NSW State Team U19. Smith won the Lifesaver of the Meet award for the second time in a row in 2022.
Kevin Corry, a Victoria resident, was given the Official of the Meet award by Chief Referee Jo Teagle for his participation in the event.
Teagle says Kevin volunteered to help out with equipment and switch roles when he heard that we needed volunteers.
He was an asset to the equipment team, and was the first to arrive each morning and the last to go. His contributions were crucial to the success of the championships.”
Practical Use
Justin Scarr, chief executive officer of Royal Life Saving Society-Australia, says that the athletes not only compete but also train to become swim teachers and swim club members. This helps to ensure the safety of the next generation in Australia.
He says, “Aside from the incredible athleticism displayed, I’d also like to recognize all the volunteers who make this an important part the pool lifesaving calendar.”
“Life Saving Victoria’s hosts did an exceptional job supporting the event as did key staff at Royal Life Saving.
“But the event wouldn’t be possible without the officials who ensure every event meets international standards so that our lifesavers can compete at international level competitions.”
SPLASH! Magazine published the article Victoria wins Australian Pool Lifesaving Championships. Magazine.
