Representatives of clubs from Warilla to Mollymook met at the preseason conference last weekend to discuss changes to the Surf Life Saving movement, and brainstorm ideas for keeping surf patrols running smoothly, and beachgoers safe.

Lifesavers were briefed on emergency management protocol by Superintendent Joe Casser, the Shoalhaven local area commander, in an effort to improve co-ordination between lifesavers and emergency services during a critical incident.

They were also addressed by the Surf Life Saving NSW director of finance, Pip Butt, regarding delegation of finances and appropriate club governance, in an effort to ensure funding is allocated where it is needed most, in the upcoming season, and into the future.

There will be a push in the 2015-16 surf patrol season, to improve their communication with both members and the general public.

The first step towards this, was a revamping of the South Coast Branch website, which can be found at www.southcoastbranch.com.au.

An effort will also be made to ensure surf clubs have a bigger social media presence, with the hope of more readily communicating with younger beachgoers, and members of the movement.

The conference saw Sussex Inlet Surf Life Saving Club represented by Jeremy Murdoch, who hopes to push for more members in the coming season.

With assistance from the branch and council lifeguards, he aims to have the club back on the beach over Christmas.

There was also discussion around the newly formed Kioloa/Bawley Point nipper group, who are hoping to be officially recognised as a surf club, with support from the branch.

South Coast Surf Life Saving is currently working towards gaining a permanent office in Nowra, which will streamline the administration of the branch.

Planning for this project is in the final stages.