Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Ayr Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) will celebrate its centenary this May, marking 100 years of service to the community through beach patrols, lifesaving and volunteer dedication.
Founded in 1926 following a tragic drowning at what is now Alva Beach, the club’s origins are deeply rooted in community spirit. Over the past century, that same spirit has continued to shape its proud legacy, which will be honoured across a three-day celebration expected to draw more than 500 attendees.
Ayr SLSC President Dr Benjamin Lawry said the milestone event would bring together past and present members, alongside local businesses and dignitaries.
“The Club is proud to have been one of the first in the state to affiliate with the Surf Life Saving Association, and of the lasting commitment its members have shown to their community through the years,” Dr Lawry said.
“This celebration is the Club’s opportunity to give back to the community that has supported it throughout its history, and to recognise the many members whose dedication has helped build the camaraderie and support that remain at the heart of the club.
“To genuinely connect current members to our legacy, we have requested permission from Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) for our members to wear the original march past caps for the 2026/27 competition season.
“I look forward to welcoming SLSQ Director Steve Barclay at the Gala Dinner on Saturday 30 May.”
Anniversary Committee spokesperson Sharon Bozzetto said the celebrations aim to honour not just the club’s achievements, but the strong sense of community that defines it.
“Our club is one defined not by its title or championship wins, but its spirit of true friendship and community as maintained by its members, past and present,” she said.
“The spirit of the Club, and the impact it has had over the past century, is exactly what we hope to capture across the weekend’s events.
“We’re incredibly grateful to author Martin Grandelis, who is preparing a retrospective book that will capture the Club’s rich history and the people who have made it what it is today.
“The invite is extended to community members of all ages to join the celebrations at the Meet & Greet on the Friday evening, and the Recovery Catch Up at the Clubhouse on the Sunday.”
Celebrations will include a Meet & Greet on Friday, 29 May at the Kalamia Hotel in Ayr, a Gala Dinner on Saturday, 30 May at the Memorial Hall in Home Hill, and a Recovery Catch Up on Sunday at the Ayr Clubhouse in Alva.
As the club reflects on its history, from its beginnings as the Donaldson and Lower Burdekin Life Saving Club to its evolution into a cornerstone of community safety, the centenary offers a moment to honour the past while celebrating the people who continue to keep local beaches safe.
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