Thursday, June 13, 2024

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Mackay Surf Club’s National Champion

Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club’s U15 Nate McKinnon recently travelled to Broadbeach on the Gold Coast to compete in the Australian Championships.  The event involves elite lifesavers being assessed on their surf sports fitness, patient assessment and CPR skills and a detailed theory paper, against the best of the best in each respective state.
Nate McKinnon took 1st place for the second year in a row, a huge achievement for surf lifesaving in this region.  
“The club is extremely proud of Nate for representing Mackay and demonstrating that our lifesavers are some of the best in Australia.  He has been training for months, under experienced coaches to achieve this result,” said Josh Grant, Director of Surf Sports.
“It was also very fitting that at this event Mackay’s very own Reggie Butler was recognised for his 50 years of service to officiating the champion lifesaver events.
“The club is very proud of both of their achievements and is a testament to what surf lifesaving is about at our club.
“They are both champions of the lifesaving movement,” said Mr Grant.


Nate McKinnon receiving his Gold medal at the National Surf Recuse Championships



It was very fitting for club patron, life member and living legend, Reg Butler, to finish his 50 years’ service of officiating and witness Nate take out 1st place at Aussies

Nate getting ready for the surf rescue tube race at nationals

Nate after taking 1st place in the board race at nationals, just one event in the champion lifesaver competition



Mackay Surf Club is very fortunate to have an experienced team of volunteers that help run the national titles, including Reg Butler (official), Peter Marshall (Chief Gear Steward) and Mick Tibaldi (workforce)

In other news