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Welcome to this edition of our newsletter! We’re thrilled to bring you the latest updates on upcoming events, including the NTSE & Short Course at Ocean Beach. Here’s what’s inside:
📍 NTSE, Short Course & ASRL Mixed Crew Champs Circulars, Program, and Event Map
👕 Singlet Order Details
🏅 How to Become an S4 Sweep
📲 Transition to LiveHeats for Scoring
🌊 State Updates
🎙️ Expression of Interest for Ocean Beach Commentators
📝 Expression of Interest for Event Officials
Enjoy the read, and stay tuned for more as we dive into the season!
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 Entries Now Open for the 2025 Australian Surf Boat Team Selection!
Each year, Surf Life Saving Australia and Surf Life Saving New Zealand select top Open Male, Open Female, U23 Development Male, and U23 Development Female surf boat crews to represent their countries in the Trans-Tasman Surf Boat Test Series. This year, the series will take place on Saturday 8th February 2025 at Waihi Beach, New Zealand, alongside the NZ SLS North Island Surf Boat Championships.
Selection Event Details:
 Date: Friday 6th December 2024
 Location: Ocean Beach, NSW
 Time: 8:00am start
To be considered, crews must:
 Enter via SEMS and attend the selection event at Ocean Beach.
 Meet eligibility criteria, including being Australian Citizens and current, financial members of SLSA.
Important Dates:
5th February 2025: Team presentation and meeting at Bondi Beach
6th February 2025: Departure for New Zealand
8th February 2025: Test Series at Waihi Beach
8th - 9th February 2025: North Island Championships
10th February 2025: Return to Australia
Ready to take on the Kiwis?  Submit your entry through SEMS now and make sure you and your team have reviewed the 2025 TTSB Selection Guideline.
Entry circular and selection guide is available here
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 Entries Now Open: 2024 Australian Short Course & ASRL Mixed Crew Championships! 
Get ready for the 2024 Australian Short Course Surf Boat Championships and the ASRL Mixed Crew Championships, set for 7-8 December at Ocean Beach, NSW!
 Event Date: 7-8 December 2024
Location: Ocean Beach, NSW
Clubs can now submit their entries via the Surf Life Saving Australia Sports Event Management System (SEMS). Be sure to check out event circular 32/24-25 for all the details.
Time to get your teams ready for an epic weekend of racing!  
Racing Program
Saturday - Reserves and U19s
Sunday - Opens and U23s
Entry circular available here
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ASRL Officials EOI NTSE/ASCC & ASRL Open 2024/25
The ASRL is seeking expressions of interest from club officials that are wanting to officiate in an official role at the upcoming ASRL managed events for 2024/25
These events include:
- SLSA National Team Selection Event - Friday 6th December 2024 - Ocean Beach NSW
- SLSA Short Course Championship - Saturday & Sunday 7th & 8th December 2024 Ocean Beach NSW
- ASRL Open Thursday 13th-16th February 2025 - Coffs Harbour NSW
Please nominate which events and official role(s) you are interested in being considered for.
We are encouraging anyone interested to nominate, those appointed to officiating roles will be supported by the ASRL and the Senior officiating team.
Please note the Beach Commentary and Livestream roles are appointed via a separate process are not part of our official roles.
If you require further information on these roles or any of the events, please contact events@asrl.com.au .
click here for EOI
2024/25 - ASRL EOI Senior Officials
The ASRL is seeking expressions of interest from officials that are wanting to officiate in a senior official role at the upcoming ASRL events for 2024/25
These events include:
- National Team Selection Event - Friday 6th December 2024 - Ocean Beach SLSC
- Aussies Short Course Championship - Saturday & Sunday 7th & 8th December 2024 - Ocean Beach SLSC.
- ASRL Open Masters - Thursday 13th February 2025 - Coffs Harbour SLSC
- SLSA Interstate Championship Friday 14th February 2025
- ASRL Open Friday 14-16th February 2025
- Please nominate which events and senior official role(s) you are interested in being considered for.
Those appointed to the Chief Referee roles will be expected to work closely with the ASRL Events Committee in the lead up to the event. This will often require fortnightly meetings. Attendance is required at the event 1 day prior to the event minimum.
We are encouraging anyone interested to nominate. Those appointed to the senior officiating roles will be supported by the ASRL Mentor Officials in the lead up to and during the event as required.
if you require further information on these roles or events, please contact events@asrl.com.au
Click here for EOI
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Calling All Commentators! 
Hey legends, we’re gearing up for an epic weekend at Ocean Beach, and we’re on the lookout for some top-notch livestream commentators!
Are you full of energy, know your way around surf boat racing, and can bring the action to life? We want YOU on the mic! 
Whether you’ve got a knack for thrilling play-by-play or you can add a bit of banter to the broadcast, we’d love to hear from you.
Think you’ve got what it takes?
Send us an email (media@asrl.com.au) if you’re ready to bring the hype and make this event unforgettable!
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2024 Singlet Design and Colour
- This years singlet design is a collaboration of artwork from 2 artists. One artist we hold near and dear to our hearts. Edwina Wright, ASRL Vice President (Media and Athlete Development) and the other artist is Rheanna Lotter, who designed our indigenous design most of you would all be familiar with.
Edwina took an element from the previous design and has worked that into this years singlet, bringing a piece of our story along on the next journey. Thanks to Edwina who spends countless hours doing graphic design and artwork for the ASRL.
Don’t miss out on your chance to order your ASRL singlet! Orders are flying in, so make sure you secure yours click here to order!
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Transitioning to LiveHeats for Event Scoring
We’re excited to announce that we’re moving to LiveHeats for scoring and results! Several NSW branches and WA are starting live testing from this weekend, with more branches joining in the coming weeks. Keep an eye on your specific branch’s communication channels for details on accessing event draws, results, and updates in real time. This transition aims to streamline scoring and enhance the event experience for competitors and spectators alike. Stay tuned!
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GOOD NEWS STORY 
While out training on Tuesday night, our South Curly cruisers helped out a grateful skipper who was stranded in the middle of the harbour with some engine trouble. The girls towed them back to safety - no small feat! Great effort from the girls!
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New S4 Sweep Assessor/Mentor Accreditation Update
To streamline the process for S2 and S3 sweep sign-offs, the new S4 sweep assessor/mentor accreditation has been introduced. This addition aims to ensure emerging sweeps are competently trained and assessed, matching their skills to conditions suited to their level (S2 sweeps up to helmet-required conditions per SRR 15 and S3 sweeps beyond). It’s important to note that S4 accreditation designates a sweep as an assessor/mentor rather than adding further qualifications beyond S3.
Details of S4 Sweep Assessor/Mentor Requirements:
- Role: The S4 Sweep Assessor/Mentor assesses sweeps aiming to progress through qualification levels.
- Requirements:
- Minimum of 5 years as a sweep
- Current financial SLSA member
- Proficient SLSA Bronze Medallion holder, at least 16 years old
- Proven commitment to sweep development
- Submission of a written application to the State/Territory Surf Boat Board/Panel, with endorsement from the relevant surf sports authorities
- Responsibilities: S4 sweeps must complete the same reaccreditation as S3 sweeps, covering Australian Sports Commission Community Coaching, SLS Development Coaching, and Sport Integrity Australia requirements.
Applying for S4 Accreditation
If you meet the criteria and wish to apply for S4, submit your application to your state’s Surf Sports Boat Panel, including the application form from the Sweeps Accreditation Tool. After panel endorsement, it will be passed to the state body for final approval.
Additional Accreditation Process Updates:
- S1 Sign-Off: Any S3 can sign off an S1 sweep. New sweeps should ideally have a mentor for guidance.
- S2 Sweep Assessment: Should be conducted in wave conditions (SRR 8-14).
- S3 Sweep Assessment: Must take place in race-like conditions where helmets are typically required, either before/after racing at a carnival or on a simulated course with a set can.
- Coaching Accreditation for S2 Sweeps: S2 sweeps must now complete coaching accreditation prior to assessment. This adjustment allows S2 sweeps to participate in any event within non-helmet-required conditions.
- Sign-Off Flexibility for S2 and S3 Sweeps: S4 sign-offs for S2 and S3 sweeps may be completed either in one day or across separate assessments if two S4 assessors aren’t available simultaneously.
This updated process is designed to enhance skills, promote safety, and ensure we’re ready for challenging conditions in this great sport.
Checkout the update resource HERE
Scotty Edwards
ASRL Learn to Row Resource:
Last year our President Natasha, set Edwina Wright and Grant Wilkinson the task of creating a resource that could be used by surf clubs to help develop and build their surf boat section, particularly when that club might not have a host of experienced sweeps and rowers to guide the process. The end result of this 12 month project is an outstanding resource that is now available to all clubs, rowers, sweeps and coaches.
This was launched at our national sweeps camp and more recently has been distributed across the Northern Territory where there are plenty of keen and motivated rowers and sweeps looking for a little bit of guidance.
The guide not only provides an 8 week Learn to row program both on land and in the water but it walks you through some of the common mistakes and faults we see in rowers, how to identify the technical error and then how to correct the error. Safe boat handling is included along with useful tips on how to setup the ergo.
Anyone can access this resource via our Media section of our website.
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ASRL SA UPDATE
SA South Coast Series Heats Up!
This weekend marks the third South Coast Series event in SA, where crews have been embracing a mix of long and regular course racing throughout the season. It's been an exciting journey so far, and the energy only continues to build!
Winter Sweeps School Success
A huge congratulations to all involved in the winter sweeps school, especially Adam Parkinson for his leadership in organizing and inspiring both mentor and trainee sweeps. It’s fantastic to see fresh faces taking up the long oar! A special shoutout to the 11 sweeps who traveled to Sydney for the Sweep Academy—what an incredible commitment!
Robe 24 is Coming Up!
Robe 24 is set for Saturday, November 30th, and we’re thrilled to welcome crews from all states! We’re especially looking forward to seeing the Victorian crews join for what promises to be some seriously hot racing.
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ASRLQ UPDATE
All Systems Go in Sunny Queensland!
The season opened with a bang as the Navy Youth/Masters Carnival took place in Noosa. Crews competed fiercely in the dash for cash and showcased tight racing, even in challenging windy conditions. A special thanks to Megabeam for returning as our major sponsor and to Fitstop for energizing the athletes with a pre-race warm-up! Mark your calendars—Round 2 will be held on November 30th at Met Caloundra.
Queensland Cup Kicks Off at Burleigh
On Saturday, November 2nd, we launched Round 1 of the Qld Cup at Burleigh. Small but challenging conditions kept the racing close and exciting. A warm welcome to Burleigh Brewing as an event partner; the promo packages and bar discounts were a hit with competitors and supporters alike!
Learn to Sweep - Gold Coast Clinic
This Sunday, November 10th, we’re holding the Gold Coast Learn to Sweep Clinic. With 11 candidates registered so far, we’re excited to see new talent developing on the long oar.
Upcoming Events
- Round 1 Super Series – November 16th at Alexandra Headland. With $12k in prize money on the line and the support of Summer of Surf, the Super Series will be in full swing with a live TV production on FOX Sports and highlights on Channel 9. Don’t miss this major event of the season!
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ASRL WA UPDATE
ASRL WA Season Off to a Strong Start!
The SLSWA Endurance State Championships and the first carnival at Coogee Beach had impressive entry numbers, signaling a positive start to the season. It’s fantastic to see so many age group crews participating and bringing energy to the competition.
Successful WA Sweep School
This winter, the WA Sweep School delivered 10 productive sessions, thanks to the expertise shared by many experienced sweeps. A special mention to the dozen WA representatives who attended the ASRL Sweeps Academy Camp—they returned with new skills, fresh insights, and a sense of camaraderie that will undoubtedly strengthen their teams.
Upcoming Carnivals and State Team Selection
We’re eagerly anticipating three more carnivals before the year wraps up, including two key State Team Selection events. These will help us assemble and prepare a well-rounded State team ahead of the ASRL Open at Coffs Harbour. Best of luck to everyone vying for a spot!
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VSRL Update
The VSRL Surf Boat Panel has already see several ‘wins’ leading into the season. You only need to read the below to gauge how well the sport is looking for the season ahead. Some key points are:
• Youth Day – over 60 Under 19/23 rowers and around 20 helpers were on deck to participate in a remarkable day of information sharing, learning and social engagement.
• Newly formed Youth Committee – five youth members, along with three VSRL Panel Members, sit on fortnight meetings to discuss the youth rowing space. This includes planning events and providing input into key VSRL decisions.
• VSRL Sweeps Day – 22 sweeps attended this interactive session held at Point Leo. Coordinated by Scott Tannahill, this course was supported by a number of current sweeps, and we are proud to have signed off 7 new S1 sweeps and 2 new S2 sweeps.
• VSRL Performance Coaching Course – 8 sweeps attended this session at Life Saving Victoria with the presentation on the day conducted by Dr Grant ‘Wilko’ Wilkinson. A huge shout out to SLSA and LSV for their support in funding and delivering this course.
• The launch of ‘Boatie Banter’ the VSRL Podcast. We have already seen two main episodes and three interview episodes released. What is in store for upcoming episodes … you will have to listen! Search ‘Boatie Banter’ to find out more.
• Diversity and Inclusion – VSRL have established a Diversity and Inclusion policy that will guide the sport in its processes to provide an environment welcoming to all. LSV are thrilled with our progress in this space.
• And finally, our first carnival will be held at Port Campbell on 16 November 2024. ‘Sunset Sprints’ will be a twilight event with short course and mixed racing on offer. All rowers, supporters and officials will be involved in Bogan Bingo up in the clubhouse afterwards
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