Freshwater Surf Life Saving Club
Founded: 10.12.1908
Affiliated: 31.08.1909
First Clubhouse Built: 1909
How was Club Formed: Freshwater SLSC has a proud history stretching back to 1908. Our club continues to be one of the most influential in developing/promoting Surfing and Surf Life Saving in Australia.
In the early part of the 1900s, the Freshwater area was a popular weekend swimming and camping spot for many people. Assurf swimming grew in popularity, and following a tragic drowning in early 1908, the need for a surf rescue club at the beachwas recognized.
A meeting at was held at Undercliff Rd Freshwater on 22 November 1908. Those present agreed to form the club, with Doctor Arthur (State MLA) named as President. Fees were set at 2 shillings 6 pence each for the 100 members. This was followed by a further meeting on 28 November at the Fosters Grad Pier Hotel at which a number of resolutions were passed.
A further meeting was held at the beach on the 29 Nov 1908, with the ‘Office Bearers’ confirmed, including Dr Arthur (President), Mr A. Neven-Tossau (Secretary) and John B. Steel as Auditor. At this meeting, it was also agreed to hold a surf carnival on ‘Anniversary’ Day, 26 January 1909.
Some weeks later in Dec 1908, it was reported that Alex Walker had been elected as Captain and Fred ‘Fritz’ Schwarz elected vice-captain (Bronze Medallion 9th April 1911). It was at this time the club’s first lifesaving reel was placed on the beach
Formation Date: The initial formation date can be considered to be 22 November 1908. However, it
appears that, due to lack of members willing to patrol on Sundays and holidays, the Club ceased operations for a relatively short, albeit unknown period, as noted in the Star Newspaper article of 3rd Feb. A renewed effort was made to recommence patrols and in early February 1910 the club was reformed. The secretary is noted as William Waddington.
Affiliation Date: The first Annual report of the Surf Bathers Association published in 30/08/1909
includes Freshwater.
Council Approval Date: Not known
Patrols Commenced: Approx 1908-10
