The new surf club season for Yamba SLSC for 2016/17 is well under way with lots of planning currently taking place. The recent AGM saw a large number of members in attendance with most positions being filled. Chairman of the Board, Joe Dougherty has thanked outgoing Board members Alan Schofield and Brian Badgery for their untiring efforts and contributions to the club over many years and welcomed new Board members Andrew Morris as vice chairman and Kim McFarlane as house director. He also thanked all those who have made contributions to the club in various ways over the past season, particularly the club sponsors whose support is invaluable. With the new patrol season due to start on Saturday, September 24, all patrolling members should have received the draft patrol roster covering the coming months. A final roster will be sent out once it is finalised by lifesaving director James Ryan. The club is desperately in need of additional patrolling members to help ease the load of those currently volunteering their time to keep our beach safe for tourists and locals alike. Existing members are strongly encouraged to upgrade their skills by completing additional awards that are offered through the club such as Advanced Resuscitation Certificate, First Aid Certificate, IRB crew and drivers certificates. Further details can also be obtained by contacting the education director, Kim Morgans or the club office. Any members of the public who have been involved with surf clubs in the past and would like to become involved again are encouraged to make contact with the club. Please contact the club if you can help. Email: office@yambaslsc.com.au or phone 6646 2463. Yamba SLSC nippers are also in the planning process with junior activities director Danielle Connolly currently organising sign on days and programs for the months ahead. More details will be available in coming weeks. All existing members are advised to renew memberships ONLINE this year. Go to portal.sls.com.au and follow the instructions to renew memberships AND make payment all in one go. New members will need to complete paper forms which are available from the club office or from the club website www.yambaslsc.com.au . Don’t forget to support the raffles held at the Yamba Golf Club each Saturday night from 5.30pm – if there are any additional helpers who would like to get involved in this valuable surf club fundraising activity, please let us know. Cathy Dougherty