North Coast Group Training had employed two Lifeguard Trainees with Coffs Harbour City Council. Temika Wright and Alex Swadling completed a gruelling interview process and skills endurance tests to win the Traineeships.
Both studied a Certificate III Sports and Recreation (Outdoor Recreation) with electives customised to meet the requirements of a Lifeguard.
Temika was involved in a Trainee exchange program earlier in 2010 with Waverley Council where she worked at Australia’s busiest beach Bondi, and starred in the Ten Network series Bondi Rescue over three weeks at the age of 16. Temika is also the first indigenous female Lifeguard Trainee in Australia and the example she sets to her community through her efforts are a stand out in a male dominated industry.
Alex is from a strong surfing background through the pro-junior surfing circuit, which is evident in his excellent water skills. He has made several rescues using boards, lifeguard power craft and with no equipment. Alex’s quick reaction to an Argentinean tourist caught in a rip at the North Wall Coffs Harbour, without doubt saved his life.
Monitoring visits have taken on a new meaning for Feleena McKay who looks after Temika and Alex, often returning to the office barefoot and sandy.
Temika has now progressed onto completing her Certificate IV in Outdoor Recreation while Alex has been fortunate enough to receive part-time work as a lifeguard which has given him the opportunity to continue entering the surf competions.
Goodluck to them both!
