Background: The journey from a young adolescent surf lifesaver to a national well-being advisor is a unique and inspiring path. This transformation highlights the interplay between personal growth, professional development, and the commitment to mental health within the lifesaving community. This presentation explores the lived experiences of an individual who has navigated this journey, starting in the organisation at the age of 5 as Nipper to the National Well-Being Advisor at 31 years old, providing insights into the challenges and rewards of growing up in lifesaving.

Methods: Through the lived experience of the presenter who transitioned from an adolescent lifesaver to a national well-being advisor the presenter will focus on their experiences, challenges, and the impact of lifesaving on their personal and professional development.

Results: The presenter will navigate and explore early exposure to lifesaving principles, the development of resilience and leadership skills, and a deepening commitment to mental health advocacy. Key themes include the importance of mentorship, the role of community support, and the influence of lifesaving experiences on personal values and career choices. The transition to a national well-being advisor was driven by a desire to give back to the lifesaving community and to address the mental health needs of past, present, and emerging lifesavers.

Conclusion: This study underscores the profound impact of lifesaving experiences on personal and professional development. The individual's journey from adolescent lifesaver to national well-being advisor exemplifies the potential for growth and leadership within the lifesaving community. These findings highlight the importance of supporting young lifesavers in their development and recognising the critical role of mental health advocacy in fostering a resilient and supportive community.

Presentation Key Learnings:
1. The Power of Early Mentorship and Community Support: fostering a culture of mentorship can be a catalyst for developing resilience, leadership, and a deep commitment to service.

2. Resilience Through Experiences: Lifesaving teaches more than just physical skills—it instils resilience, adaptability, and a profound sense of responsibility. These qualities are crucial for emergency service workers who face high-pressure situations regularly.

3. Mental Health Advocacy as a Core Responsibility: For emergency service workers, this learning emphasises that mental health advocacy should be integral to their work, not only for personal well-being but also for creating a supportive, resilient workforce.