Surf Life Saving Northern Territory (SLSNT) is a volunteer, not-for-profit community service organisation and the peak agency for coastal safety in the NT. With a history of over 100 years in Australia, surf lifesaving activities have been present in the NT since 1971 when the first club, Gove Peninsula Surf Life Saving Club, opened in Nhulunbuy.
Surf lifesavers have a positive contribution to make both on and off the beach, and each year, SLSNT continues to experience strong growth in all its activities. The organisation's mission is to protect, save, and promote life by creating a safe environment in and around beaches through patrols, education, and training programmes.
As the largest volunteer movement of its kind in Australia, SLSNT relies on community donations, fundraising, and corporate sponsorship to operate. The activities of SLSNT align with various community and government policies, such as safer communities, obesity, physical activity, youth development, training and education, and family.
SLSNT consists of three affiliated clubs: the Darwin Surf Life Saving Club at Casuarina Beach, Gove Peninsula Surf Life Saving Club at Town Beach, and Mindil Beach Surf Life Saving Club. These clubs have a combined membership of around 500 active lifesavers who dedicate their time to ensuring the safety of the beachgoing community.
Additionally, SLSNT operates a 24/7 Marine Search & Rescue Team, staffed by volunteers and utilising a fleet of rescue watercraft to provide assistance in the greater Darwin region. The head office of SLSNT, located in Coconut Grove, is home to the Australian Lifesaving Academy, which offers accredited lifesaving and first aid training, tailored to meet the needs of clients. The Australian Lifeguard Service, also based in Coconut Grove, provides lifeguard services at several aquatic venues in Darwin and offers first aid assistance at events.
By joining SLSNT, individuals can volunteer their time to keep the community safe around the ocean. The organisation also offers training programmes where participants can learn valuable skills, such as first aid and CPR, from lifesaving experts. NT Clubs patrol a number of Top End beaches throughout the Dry Season, ensuring a safe place to swim.
To stay updated with the latest news and events, members can download the SLSNT Members App, which provides easy access to organisational information, events, and news. Overall, Surf Life Saving Northern Territory is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of beachgoers and offers opportunities for individuals to get involved and contribute to this important cause.