Kaylah Broadhead from Nobbys Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) and Gabe Widseth from Redhead SLSC were announced as the winners of Junior Lifesavers of the Year during the Hunter Branch Age Championships at Fingal Beach on Sunday morning.
13-year-old Kaylah Broadhead has been involved in surf lifesaving for four years and earned the respect of the judging panel for her unwavering dedication and enthusiasm.
Gabe Widseth, who is also 13, has been participating in surf lifesaving since he was six years old. When he’s not on the beach you can find him playing rugby and cricket or performing at Young People’s Theatre in Hamilton.
“Kaylah and Gabe are already contributing to their clubs and communities,” Mark Colless, Chief Financial Officer at Newcastle Permanent and a member of the panel who selected this year’s winners, said.
“They’ve both earned their surf rescue certificates, so are already going out on patrol, and are both keen to further their education and help promote more youth involvement in surf lifesaving. They are two exceptional young people and very worthy of this recognition.”
Hunter Branch President, Henry Scruton ESM, said Kaylah and Gabe were evidence the future of surf lifesaving is in good hands.
“Our clubs and community should feel extremely proud of Kaylah and Gabe,” Mr Scruton said.
“We’re always keen for more youth members and we hope these two wonderful members inspire young surf lifesavers across our branches.”
The Hunter Branch has 13 SLSCs, from Catherine Hill Bay to Tea Gardens Hawks Nest, each of which nominates a female and male for the award. The winners are judged on their written application and an interview with the judges.
