23yo named NSW Lifeguard of the Year

29.07.2010

CUDGEN lifeguard Jarrad Cain's dream job patrolling Tweed's iconic beaches just got a lot sweeter after he was named NSW Lifeguard of the Year.
On Saturday night the 23-year-old beat 11 others to take out the honour as part of the 2010 Surf Life Saving Awards of Excellence, which acknowledges the outstanding achievements and contributions made by the state's surf clubs and members.
Mr Cain said working full-time to help make Tweed's coastline safer had been a long-held  dream so the recognition further cemented his career choice.
"I was actually very surprised I won as I didn't think I had a chance," he said.
"It's a nice feeling to know you're doing a good job and doing something right and it's great to be recognised for the work being done in the Tweed area."
The Cudgen Headland Surf Life Saving member, who began his career as a nipper when he was 11-years-old, was nominated owing to the contributions he has made while working as the Tweed Lifeguard Supervisor for the past six years.
During that time he has performed numerous rescues and first aid procedures and co-ordinated patrols along Tweed Shire's nine beaches.
Former State Manager of Australian Lifeguard Service Stephen Leahy, who nominated Mr Cain on behalf of the Tweed Shire Council, said the dedicated lifeguard was worthy of
the annual accolade.

"During my time, as his boss, Jarrad was one of the real quiet achievers," he said. "He is a brilliant lifeguard, great in the water, with an excellent understanding of dangerous
conditions. "Jarrad has an amazing amount of potential as he moves through his career.'
Mr Cain said he looked forward to continuing to serve the community as a lifeguard.
"It's important to provide a safe environment on the beach especially at Tweed as it's a major tourist attraction," he said.
"I've got the best job ever.
"I wouldn't change it for the world."
As the recipient of a state award, Mr Cain will be nominated in the National Surf Life Saving Awards of Excellence to be held in Sydney next month.