Growth, stability and financial governance.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
These key areas defined the work of Lower North Coast Surf Life Saving (LNCSLS) branch president Brian Wilcox during his two-year stint as Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW) deputy president.
His position on the SLSNSW State Council came to end earlier this year alongside former president David Murray, director of life saving Stuart Harvey and director of member services Trent Thomas.
"I've now got more time to do other things, like golf," Brian laughed.
Brought into the role during tumultuous times, it's fair to say Brian made a positive impact.
"I don't regret taking on the job, it was a professional board that was State focused," Brian said.
"There was lots of strategic planning in line with dealing with the overlaying issue."
That overlaying issue was fraud allegations against the organisation's former general manager Matthew Hanks.
With a strategic and business plan in place, Brian worked with the council to ensure the organisation's financial governance was back up to scratch.
"There was lots of good work there and I'm happy it's come to fruition," Brian said.
"We put in place those strategies for staff and clubs. This is what the volunteers wanted."
Although disappointed he is no longer involved, Brian is pleased the organisation continues to flourish.
He enjoyed being in a leadership and support role for clubs.
"The best part was watching the growth of people within clubs, not being the 'big brother' of the clubs but us (the State council) only here to help and support what they were trying to achieve," Brian said.
Brian's been involved with surf life saving for more than 25 years. He wouldn't have it any other way.
He linked up with Forster Surf Life Saving Club in 1993 and completed his bronze medallion and training.
He's been a prominent figure in the administration side of the club for about 15 years and moved into LNCSLS branch roles about nine years ago.
In his role as LNC branch president, he's experienced the continued growth and stability of all six clubs (Taree-Old Bar, Crowdy Head, Black Head, Forster, Cape Hawke and Pacific Palms).
With gear inspections and meetings out of the way, his focus has shifted to a big summer on the beaches.
Most clubs have completed bronze medallion and surf rescue certificates ahead of the start of the patrol season on September 28.
The nippers program kicks off next month, with clubs on the look out for registrations.
Anyone keen to join the program is encouraged to contact their local club soon.
"New volunteers are always welcome as well," Brian added.