BREAKING: In a historic move, the Broulee Surf Life Saving Club has appointed Natalie Browning as its first female president, marking a significant milestone in the club’s 46-year history. This landmark decision not only highlights gender diversity but also makes Browning the first former Nipper to lead the club.
Browning, a lifelong member of the Broulee Surf Life Saving Club, expressed her deep connection to the community, stating, “I’m born and bred down on the Far South Coast.” She began her journey at the club as an under-eights Nipper and has progressively advanced through various roles, including emergency call-out team member, since joining patrols at age 15.
Under Browning’s leadership, the club, which boasts over 900 members, aims to continue its exceptional record of safety along the coastline. “We’ve never had a drowning between the red and yellow flags,” she said, underscoring the club’s commitment to safety and community engagement.
The Broulee SLSC has evolved since its founding in 1979, becoming the largest non-metro branch of Surf Life Saving in New South Wales. Browning noted that about half of their membership now comprises residents from Canberra, a testament to the club’s successful outreach efforts. “We’ve tapped into the Canberra market, as it’s sort of their second home down on the Far South Coast,” she explained.
To further accommodate this growing membership, the club recently launched a dedicated Nippers program in Canberra, allowing families to train locally before participating in sessions at the coast every four weeks. “We thought it’d be a good idea to start a Nippers program in Canberra,” Browning said, highlighting the club’s innovative approach to community involvement.
As Browning embarks on her tenure, she emphasizes the club’s inclusive environment. “We’re not just a lifesaving club or a surf sports club. We have something for everyone,” she stated. Her appointment as president serves as a powerful message, inspiring others to pursue leadership roles within the club. “I hope it instills that drive in the next generation,” she added.
This pivotal moment is not just about leadership but about fostering a culture that encourages young leaders, especially women, to step forward. Browning’s history-making presidency is a beacon of change, promising to enhance the club’s legacy and impact on the community.
Stay tuned for more updates on Browning’s initiatives and the club’s activities in the coming months. The Broulee Surf Life Saving Club is set to expand its reach and continue providing vital services along the beautiful South Coast.
