Everyone has a story. Listen to memories of local residents as they recount their experiences in and around the surf clubs of the Illawarra.
Click on the residents’ names or photos for more information and to listen to their stories.
Corrimal
Graham talks about how the Corrimal Surf Life Saving Club operates and its activities.
Listen to Graham’s story here.
John Dryden
Thirroul
John Dryden shares his experiences as president and some of the long history of the Thirroul Surf Life Saving Club.
Listen to John’s interview here.
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Rachelle Balez
Scarborough/Wombarra
Rachelle Balez grew up as a nipper at Scarborough/Wombarra Surf club and is now the patrol leader of the first all-girl patrol group for the club.
Listen to Rachelle’s story here.
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Paul Lumby
Towradgi
Paul is the president of the Towradgi Surf Life Saving Club.
Listen to Paul’s story here.
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Kevin Crick
Woonona
Kevin grew up in the Woonona Surf Club and is now the president.
Listen to Kevin’s story here.
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Kate Balding
Coledale
Kate is the president of the Coledale Surf Life Saving Club, of which she has been a member since the age of five.
Listen to Kate’s story here.
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Leo Stevens
Coalcliff
Leo is the 2021 president of the Coalcliff Surf Life Saving Club, which is family friendly rather than competitive.
Listen to Leo’s story here.
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Keith Caldwell
Bulli
Keith was the president of Bulli Surf Life Saving Club for 16 years and a life member of the club and a number of wider surf club associations.
Listen to Keith’s story here.
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Terry Hagan
Sandon Point
Terry is a life member of Sandon Point Surf Life Saving Club, where he was employed as a professional lifeguard by Wollongong City Council for 36 years.
Listen to Terry’s story here.
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This is an ongoing project and we welcome your contribution. If you are interested in sharing your recollections of the Surf Clubs of the Illawarra please contact us.
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