Published 23 January 2023
Three days of intense competition and exciting finishes in the line throw and manikin tow finished with the Victorian State Team crowned champions of the Royal Life Saving Australian Pool Lifesaving Championships.
Competitors traveled from all over Australia to the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre for the Championships, where the ‘do or die’ approach takes on new meaning, as every event has a real-life application and precision is as important as speed and agility.
The Victorian team edged out strong competition from the Western Australian State Team, and the NSW State Team to claim victory. NSW had held the title for five events running.
In addition to winning the overall points tally, the Victorian State Team also made a clean sweep of the CPR competition, taking home the Laerdal CPR Trophy after winning the under 16, under 19 and open divisions.
Pool lifesaving is one of the three core disciplines that make up the sport of lifesaving internationally. In addition to ocean and beach disciplines, more commonly known as surf lifesaving, pool lifesaving tests swimming, rescue skills and initiative in a still-water environment.
The Lifesavers of the Meet were Jake Smith, WA State Team (Open) and Chelsea Jones, NSW State Team (U19). It was Jake’s second Lifesaver of the Meet honour in a row, having taken home the award in 2022.
Special mention goes to Kevin Corry from Victoria who was awarded Official of the Meet by Chief Referee Jo Teagle, for his role at the event.
“Kevin jumped in to switch roles and help with equipment when he heard we were short volunteers,” Ms Teagle said.
“He was a great asset to the equipment team and the first to arrive and the last to leave each day. His contribution was key to ensuring the success of the Championships.”
Royal Life Saving Society – Australia Chief Executive Officer, Justin Scarr said the athletes use their training not only in competition, but also to be teachers, swim teachers, swim club members, and pool lifeguards, supporting the next generation of Australians to stay safe around water.
“As well as the tremendous athleticism on display, I’d like to acknowledge all the volunteers behind the scenes who make this event an important part of the pool lifesaving calendar,” Mr Scarr said.
“Our hosts from Life Saving Victoria did an outstanding job in supporting the event, as did key staff from Royal Life Saving.
“But the event simply wouldn’t happen without the officials who ensure that every event meets the international standard so our lifesavers can be considered for international level competitions.”
The full results are available here.
