Who would have thought that a chance encounter over 10 years ago at the beach would have led to a lifetime of fun, friendship, fitness and career opportunities for Kate Born and Klara Close, both developing members of Mackay SLSC, Guardians of the Beach since 1950.
Kate and Klara first joined MSLSC as green caps, aged 5 years old, and both girls progressed from wee green caps, through to nippers, then cadets, and are now patrolling members at the beach, as well as hoping to be involved for many years in this iconic sport.
Taking their life saving capabilities from SLSC, the pair are now overseeing the much-loved swim centre in Mackay’s CBD, taking those humble beginnings and experiences, and their best friendship, to become a part of the highly qualified team of lifeguards at the Blue Water Lagoon at the age of 17.
“A highlight of being involved with nippers was finding lifelong and loyal friends,” Kate Born said.
“Being able to compete around QLD and learning valuable skills that could one day save a person’s life; and I’ve been able to watch Klara grow and succeed as a person, which is awesome.”
Klara said that, in Mackay, some of her and Kate’s friends were scared of the ocean because of their lack experience in the sport of surf lifesaving.
“They might have casual jobs that get in the way [of being able to surf lifesave], which shouldn’t be a barrier,” Klara said.
“The good thing for teenagers like me, is I can get my Surf Rescue Certificate, First Aid and Bronze Medallion through the club as a member and this has now led to employment opportunities in the community.
“All just by being involved in my local surf lifesaving club!
“There are so many opportunities for people my age: friendship, fitness, qualifications and employment, it’s been such an awesome journey.”
From their experiences in surf lifesaving, Kate has taken her nurturing and caring aptitude to the next level by potentially studying teaching.
Klara is no different, one finishing school she wants to pursue a career as a paramedic.
Both the pair say they have been inspired from their commitment to their community as well as the skills they have learnt from Surf Lifesaving.
If you would like to attain lifelong friendships, fitness, qualifications and contribute to your community, please contact admin@mackayslsc.com.au for further information.
With sponsorship from Mackay Airport, the club is able to reduce membership fees by $100 if the individual progresses to becoming a patrolling member.
Contributed with thanks by Director of Surf Sports, Josh Grant.
Klara and Kate and attending one of their first Surf Lifesaving carnivals together
Kate (Left) and Klara (right) with Orlando Corrie (Centre) after completing their SRC training and getting ready in their patrol gear
Kate and Klara having some fun whilst on patrol at Harbour Beach
Klara and Kate getting ready for a morning at Nippers
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
