On 26th September 2026, the Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) community gathered at The Star, Brisbane, on Saturday night for the 2026 Awards of Excellence, honouring the volunteers and athletes whose dedication keeps Queensland beaches safe.
Point Danger Branch had an incredible presence on the night with an outstanding group representing our clubs and community. We’re incredibly proud to see so many of our members recognised for their achievements and contributions.
A huge congratulations to the following nominees who came away with awards on the night:
William Barwick (Bilinga SLSC) – Surf Lifesaver of the year
“From Bilinga to the biggest stage in Queensland lifesaving, William Barwick (Bilinga SLSC) capped an outstanding season by taking out Surf Lifesaver of the Year. Will has made a significant contribution across operational, training and leadership environments, serving as Club Captain, Rescue Watercraft Operator and trainer, and Helicopter Crew member. His willingness to mentor, educate and support fellow members has fostered a culture of excellence and continuous improvement within the movement, strengthening lifesaving capability at club, branch and state levels” – SLSQ
Rory Phelps (Rainbow Bay SLSC) – Young Surf Life Saver of the Year
“Young Surf Lifesaver of the Year was awarded to Rory Phelps (Rainbow Bay SLSC), whose contribution this season directly strengthened frontline lifesaving capability. As a Patrol Captain, RWC Operator and SurfCom Operator, Rory introduced Froggies familiarisation sessions to build members’ confidence in identifying hazards and safely navigating entry and exit points and contributed to Bronze Medallion training and mentoring after gaining his Training Officer qualification” – SLSQ
Ketynah Philip (Kirra SLSC) – Young Volunteer of the Year
“The inaugural Young Volunteer of the Year award was presented to Ketynah Philip (Kirra SLSC). A Kirra SLSC member since joining as an Under 6 Nipper in 2012, Ketynah has earned 60 association awards and contributed more than 750 volunteer hours to Surf Life Saving. During the 2025/26 season alone she completed 313 volunteer hours, including more than 273 patrol hours, while serving as Deputy Junior Activities Chairperson at Kirra SLSC and Youth Development Officer for the Point Danger Branch” – SLSQ
Palm Beach SLSC, Pacific SLSC & Tallebudgera SLSC – The Professor Tess Crammond AO OBE Medal for Resuscitation
Callum Brennan (Currumbin Beach Vikings SLSC) – Peter Lacey Athlete of the Year
Mariah Jones (Tweed Heads & Coolangatta SLSC) – Masters Athlete of the Year
Jackson Brennan (Currumbin Beach Vikings SLSC) – Youth Athlete of the Year
Cab Savs (Tallebudgera SLSC) – Sports Team of the Year
Rachelle King (Currumbin Beach Vikings SLSC) – Professional Coach of the Year
Te’a Domeracki (Kirra SLSC) – Volunteer Coach of the Year
John Hamrey (Bilinga SLSC) – Ron ‘Boppo’ Tallon OAM Official of the Year
