international
Maska at Bondi Maska Hubert made history as the first lifeguard from Nauru to patrol Sydney's Bondi Beach. He spent a busy day under the guidance of members of the Bondi Surf Bathers' Life Saving Club. There was an estimated 20,000 visitors on the beach the day of his five-hour patrol.
to develop a culture of safety, and the reputation of the lifeguards continues to increase each year,” Mr Allan said. History was made last January when two Nauru lifeguards patrolled on Australian beaches for the first time, and the organisation hopes that potentially this could lead to an exchange program in the future. Maska Hubert and Ollimac Scotty arrived in the country in December 2014. After spending time travelling along the eastern seaboard the opportunity arose for the duo to visit Palm Beach Currumbin SLSC in Queensland. They had a great time touring the club’s facilities and inspecting the beach. But much more was to come for Maska when he was given the chance to patrol Sydney’s busiest beach alongside
“The success and growth of the Nauru lifeguard operation highlights why it is so important for Australian lifeguards to continue to share their knowledge and experience with the wider lifeguarding community.” members of Bondi Surf Bathers' Life Saving Club on 17 January. Club Captain James Roger and Patrol Captain Roger Butler were on hand to help guide this rookie patrolman as he made history, becoming the first from his country to patrol Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach. He spent some time on the water’s edge and also learned how the IRB and ATV vehicles operated. On the day there was an estimated 20,000 visitors on the shoreline, but Maska confidently handled the situation during his five-hour stint. The 2014/15 season was a successful one for Nauru lifeguards, with their Government giving them equal status with other rescue services such as the fire brigade after a number of successful rescue operations. The team recently acquired jet skis and have moved into 24/7 operation, able to respond to any coastal emergency. The success and growth of the Nauru lifeguard operation highlights why it is so important for Australian lifeguards to continue to share their knowledge and experience with the wider lifeguarding community. Australian Lifeguard Magazine 51