Kiama Downs Surf Lifesaving Club (SLSC) held the inaugural Kiama Lifeguards Shootout at Jones Beach on Saturday afternoon, bringing together lifeguards from this season and previous years for a fun end-of-season competition.

The event saw participants riding rescue boards and being judged on their performance in the surf.

“It was a bit of fun overall - that was the theme of the day - but it was also about the guys and girls showcasing their skills on the rescue boards,” said Kiama Downs SLSC lifeguard Joel Trist. 

Some of the action at Jones Beach last weekend. Photo: Joel Trist

“It’s the sort of thing that can be utilised day-to-day when they’re out there on the job.”

The competition featured guest judges, including Drew Cairncross, who previously competed in Ironman events, and a member from Wollongong Council.

“They had a bit of fun judging throughout the day as the rounds went on,” he said.

Blake Rogers and Tom Fennelly faced off in the final, with Fennelly ultimately taking the win.

Conditions exceeded expectations, with organisers initially anticipating rain and large surf.

“We were really lucky,” Trist said. “It ended up being a really nice sunny day with some really fun waves down at Jones Beach.”

Beyond the competition, the event also served to strengthen team bonds.

“A lot of us don’t get the chance to work with each other throughout the season because we’re on different shifts,” he said. 

“It’s good camaraderie - getting everyone together for a fun time - while also showcasing our skills. There was a bit of carnage as well, which is always a good laugh.”

Although the patrol season officially wrapped up the previous weekend, the shootout acted as a celebratory finale.

Reflecting on the season, Trist described it as a positive one overall.

“We had a few rainy days here and there, but overall it was probably better than other seasons in terms of the number of rescues we had to do,” he said.

A new recruit this year, Trist said he had found the experience rewarding, working alongside more seasoned lifeguards such as Brendan Wall, who has more than 20 years’ experience.

“Overall, it was really enjoyable - it’s always good to be down at the beach helping out the community,” he said.