It is the sun-soaked memories of days at the beach that are often associated with the laid-back lifestyle of the Illawarra.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
With this, however, comes the responsibility to educate generations of Australians who live their lives by the ocean - a role falling largely to surf lifesavers.
Thirroul Surf Life Saving Club was established in 1907 after amalgamating with the South Thirroul surf club.
Members and volunteers replaced the original timber clubhouse with a larger concrete structure in the same year.
Today, despite four years of minor renovations made possible by Wollongong City Council's assistance and community grants, the club's humble beginnings are still recognisable.
The club is now 561-members strong, from ages six to 76.
A contingent as large as this has ensured the club's success in competitions, as well as the nine patrols in the swimming season.
Club president Jeff Body said having a large group allowed them to help smaller clubs with patrols.
"We have a large group of members so we are able to assist smaller clubs that are often struggling, such as the Sussex Inlet Surf Club," he said.
With residential developments currently happening in Thirroul, the surf club is working harder then ever to keep beachgoers safe.
"We now find ourselves doing surveillance on a wider scale than ever before," Mr Body said.
"We are doing roving patrols because new houses are giving people access to areas they shouldn't be swimming in."
Being the first beach accessible from Bulli Pass also presented challenges.
"We have a lot of people from areas such as western Sydney who come down to picnic in the park and make their way down to the sand," Mr Body said.
"It means we have to be even more vigilant". The responsibilities and accolades of the Thirroul surf lifesaver team are not limited to the sand.
"Seven of our members have received Order of Australia Medals, which is very unique," Mr Body said.
"We have a number of members who go on and provide services beyond patrol.
"The highlight of our club for the last decade has been the unity between our juniors and seniors," he said.
"This is what we believe makes a successful club, and not all surf clubs are able to achieve this".
