Wanda Wins NSW Surf Lifesaving Title
Wanda Surf Life Saving Club claimed the NSW Surf Life Saving Open title for 2026, a prestigious achievement in the competitive surf lifesaving calendar. The victory was celebrated locally, underscoring the club's depth and athleticism in rescue, swimming, and board events.
Wanda's victory at the 2026 NSW Surf Life Saving Open Championships brought an end to an era of dominance by Newport SLSC, who had claimed the title for the previous 11 years. The win was hard-fought, with Newport narrowing a 150-plus point gap to just over 60 by the final day of competition. This title marks a significant achievement for the Bate Bay club, showcasing their strength across a range of events. Their path to victory included a crucial win by the "Wanda Weapons" surf boat crew, who defeated the multi-time champions from Bulli SLSC for the Open Male Gold. Individual and team performances were key to Wanda's success. Dane Sutton was a standout, winning the U19 Male Iron and the prestigious Jacob Lollback Memorial U19 Male Board race. Other gold medalists included Charlotte Bowmer in the U17 Female Swim. The club's depth was further demonstrated by their younger athletes. Wanda's team of Jayden Beaumont, Dane Sutton, and Otis Jessop secured gold in the U19 Male Taplin Relay, while the U15 Male Swim Team, consisting of Kobi Mead, Max Bowmer, Jordan Prince, and Dashiell Lonergan, also finished on top. The victory in the Open Championships capped off a dominant period for Wanda, who had also secured the Overall Point Score at the 2026 NSW Surf Life Saving Age Championships just a week earlier, finishing ahead of Manly LSC and Swansea Belmont SLSC.
