In Australian Surf Life Saving (SLS), there are several surf sports disciplines
that test lifesaving skills, strength, endurance, and teamwork. These competitions are held at local, state, and national levels, with a huge amount to offer our Members at all age levels, the World Ocean Series & Surf Life Saving bodies have a range of Carnivals around the Country, with the most prestigious event being the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships (“The Aussie”)
A traditional open-water swim through the surf and back to the beach.
A swimmer uses a rescue tube to rescue a 'patient' and return them to shore.
A team event where a swimmer in a belt is assisted by a reel crew to reach a buoy and return.
Competitors paddle a surfboard around a buoy course.
A team event where a swimmer is rescued by a teammate on a board.
Competitors paddle a surf ski through the surf and around buoys.
Similar to the surf ski race, but with two paddlers on the same ski.
A multi-discipline event that includes swimming, board paddling, ski paddling, and running, performed in a specific order.
A team relay combining the three disciplines: swimming, board paddling, and ski paddling.
A short, fast sprint across soft sand (usually 70-90m).
Competitors sprint to retrieve a baton from the sand, with one fewer baton than competitors.
A team sprint relay with batons.
A longer-distance endurance race in soft sand.
A traditional event focusing on rescue and CPR techniques.
Teams respond to simulated first aid scenarios.
Tests skills in patrol duties, rescues, and first aid.
A multi-discipline event combining theory, swimming, board rescue, and first aid.
Crews of four rowers and a sweep navigate through the surf and back.
Simulates a rescue scenario using an inflatable rescue boat.
A relay-style event involving multiple rescues.
Simulates multiple patient rescues in a short time.
A driver and crewperson perform a rescue using a rescue tube.
A team swim race where points are combined.
Long-distance surf swims (eg. 2km or more).
Longer versions of board, ski, or multi-discipline races.
