SLSCs can expect to have their patrols assessed over the season. The mandatory assessment is a basic check of compliance with the SLSC’s LSA. The Patrol Audit Program delivered by SLSNSW branches aims to assist SLS clubs and services in standardising the process of assessing the compliance of patrols and services to LSAs and SLS lifesaving policies and procedures.
SLSNSW branches are expected to deliver at least four patrol audits per SLSC within the patrol season (on average one every 5 to 6 weeks) and by the due dates for the SLSCs to be compliant for the following patrol season.
The Patrol Audit Form used for audits is distributed widely following its seasonal review. It is also available on the SLSNSW website so there are no surprises and SLSCs are aware of the expectation. The auditors take on their role in a volunteer capacity.
SLSC members are encouraged to refer to the Patrol Audit Guide as a self-assessment tool to assess their own SLSC’s assets and personnel, and to help maintain their SLSC’s overall compliance throughout the patrol season.
Your local SLSNSW branch should communicate information on the Patrol Audit Program throughout the patrol season.
Patrol Competition
In addition to the standard assessment, SLSCs may participate in their own internal ‘Patrol Competition’ using the Patrol Audit Form as the competition criteria. It is sincerely hoped that SLSCs find involvement in the competition a positive experience and an opportunity to polish their skills. The role of the competition is to identify excellence in patrolling service and is not just a measurement of compliance. Many SLSCs successfully hold internal and inter-SLSC patrol competitions. They are encouraged, allowing patrols to pit their skills against one another and receive recognition from their peers for their efforts.