INTRODUCING A NEW NATIONAL DAY OF CELEBRATION!
On Wednesday 4 March 2026, Surf Life Saving Australia will launch the very first Red & Yellow Day — a new nationwide celebration of the thousands of surf lifesavers who volunteer to keep our beaches safe. Clubs across Australia will be taking part, and we need every member behind it.
This isn’t just another charity day. It’s our chance to show Australia who we are and what we stand for and to build momentum that can deliver real impact for our surf lifesaving community.
But it only works if we act together.
WHAT WE’RE ASKING YOU TO DO
1. Wear your SLS patrol shirt on Red & Yellow Day
To recognise the 200,000 members who dedicate their time and service, SLSA is granting special permission for active members to wear their patrol shirt on the 4th of March in support of Red & Yellow Day.
Visibility of the uniform throughout our communities helps raise awareness of the incredible volunteer effort behind Surf Life Saving. It is an opportunity for people to ask questions, show appreciation, and learn more about the movement and the importance of swimming between the flags.
Important notes (if applicable):
- This exemption permits active members to wear their patrol shirt at their workplace or university only on Wednesday 4 March 2026. This does not permit members to wear the patrol shirt on public transport, while commuting, or while travelling to and from work. Members should carry the shirt with them and change into it once at their workplace.
- Members working from home are encouraged to wear the patrol shirt during their working hours on 4 March 2026.
- Members must not wear the patrol shirt if they are required to wear specific personal protective equipment, a work-issued uniform, or if wearing the patrol shirt would conflict with workplace health and safety requirements (e.g. construction sites, emergency services, security or enforcement roles). If unsure, members should seek approval from their workplace manager or supervisor.
- Members who are also employed as emergency service personnel (e.g. paramedics, firefighters, police, SES) must not wear the patrol shirt while undertaking those duties or while in an official emergency services capacity.
- This exemption does not apply to members attending school. School uniform requirements must continue to be followed, unless your school has granted permission (i.e. Mufti Day or casual day)
- Members wearing the patrol shirt must not represent themselves as being “on duty” or as speaking on behalf of Surf Life Saving Australia unless formally authorised. If asked, members should make it clear they are supporting Red & Yellow Day as volunteers and are not on patrol.
- Patrol shirts must not be worn while consuming alcohol or while attending social functions outside the workplace. Members should change out of the uniform prior to such activities.
- If a member becomes involved in an incident (e.g. First Aid or resuscitation) while wearing the patrol shirt in their workplace, they must clearly disclose to the patient that they are not on duty, but are qualified to assist in accordance with their training. In such cases, the member must notify their State or Territory Centre as soon as practicable.
We have provided a templated letter that you can supply to your employer, school, or university if needed. Click here to download.
Please remember that patrolling uniforms are only to be worn during patrols. This exemption applies on 4 March 2026 only.
2. Share our new “Red & Yellow Day’ campaign video
Available to share from:
