Portland Surf Life Saving Club

Our Purpose

Surf Life Saving exists to save lives, create great Australians and build better communities. Despite significant advancements in technology, techniques and knowledge, people still drown on the coast in unacceptable numbers. 

Portland SLSC's mission aligns with Life Saving Victoria's...

to prevent aquatic related death and injury in all Victorian communities. 

Our Vision

That all Victorians will learn water safety, swimming and resuscitation and be provided with safe aquatic environments and venues.

Our Values

Positive and respectful relationships (cultural and inter-generational).

Being open, welcoming and inclusive.

Personal development through commitment to lifesaving.

Developing healthy lifestyles.

Taking personal responsibility for betterment.

Being relevant in today’s and tomorrow’s society.

Efficient and appropriate use of available resources.

Building stronger and safer communities.

Portland Surf Life Saving Club is a registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC).

About the Club

Emerging from the shores of Henty beach on the 19th of March, 1931, the Portland SLSC was born—a beacon of seaside safety and camaraderie. With waves crashing and the sun setting, the Henty beach clubhouse was etched into the landscape by 1936. Then, in a momentous decision on October 1st, 1947, the club embraced a new identity: The Portland Surf Life Saving Club, marking its official foundation with renewed vigor and purpose.

1955 witnessed a dynamic shift. As the rumble of construction filled the air, the building of the breakwater prompted the club to relocate its legacy to Narrawong beach. This pristine shoreline saw the club rise to unprecedented heights, hosting the Victorian State Championships in 1959, which echoed with the cheers and roars of competition.

Yet, the winds of change blew once more, guiding the club to the golden sands of Bridgewater beach. The 1970s was a time of evolution and growth: the birth of the nipper group, a new club house standing tall, and the 1980s welcoming the era when fearless females clinched their Bronze Medallions. The club, with its undying spirit, again hosted the Victorian Championship, etching another milestone in its illustrious history.

Fast forward to today, and the club pulses with the energy of 60-80 devoted members, vigilantly patrolling the shores every summer. Under the leadership of the visionary Darryl Paterson, the club president for 2023-2024, the Portland legacy continues to thrive and flourish.

But the thrill isn't just confined to summers. As the temperatures soar, members can compete in electrifying summer carnivals sprinkled across Victoria. But come winter, the Portland IRB team springs into action, demonstrating their mettle by clinching the 3rd spot in Victoria during the 2015 season. Let's not forget the U23 Surf Boat Crew, the reigning 2020 Victorian State Titles Holders, who showcased their prowess at the prestigious Australian Surf Rowers League titles.

Portland Surf Life Saving Club: A tale of heritage, passion, and undying spirit, constantly redefining its legacy along Victoria's vast coastline.


Join the Movement

Our lifesaving members each play a critical role in ensuring the safety of visitors to our waterways – and we’re looking to grow our family!

With more visitors to Victorian waterways each year, we rely on our volunteers and members to help ensure public safety. From volunteering between the flags to running a barbecue for our future lifesavers, there are so many diverse volunteering opportunities for every age, background and ability.

Even sparing one hour a month to contribute to your club and community makes a significant impact on the safety of visitors to Victorian waterways.

When you join a club, you join a community. Each of our 43,000 Victorian members have their own story within lifesaving with one thing in common – there really is something for everyone.
Joining your local lifesaving club is the beginning of your journey and your own unique experience. You never know how you’ll grow in lifesaving!

You can expect to:


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