01/09/2026
Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) is pleased to announce that Chris Jacobson and Simon Moriarty have been awarded Life Membership of Surf Life Saving Australia.
Surf Life Saving Australia’s highest honour, Life Membership recognises members whose sustained and distinguished service has made a significant and lasting contribution to the Surf Life Saving movement.
Surf Life Saving Australia congratulates Chris and Simon for their remarkable service and contributions to the movement, and for being proudly awarded Life Membership.
Chris Jacobson – Life Member #319
One of the most influential volunteer leaders in surf lifesaving, Chris Jacobson has made an exceptional contribution to Surf Life Saving over more than two decades.
First joining Ulverstone Surf Life Saving Club on Tasmania’s north-west coast in 2004, Chris stepped onto the national stage at the 2006 Surf Life Saving Australia Youth Development Forum. He was recognised as the 2011/12 Australian Surf Lifesaver of the Year, the youngest ever recipient – and the only Tasmanian – to receive the honour
Chris served for fourteen years on the Lifesaving Advisory Committee (LAC) including nine years as National Chair of Lifesaving, a position he assumed in 2016 as the youngest person to hold the role.
During his tenure as Chair, Chris was instrumental in modernising and strengthening lifesaving standards, education and training, leading significant national reforms. He played a leading role in the review of the national lifesaving curriculum, the development of contemporary rescue and patrol training resources, and the introduction of nationally delivered blended learning programs.
His many achievements include chairing the National Lifesaving Curriculum Review, the re-write of the Public Safety and Aquatic Rescue manual, and the re-design of the Bronze Medallion Aquatic Rescue and Silver Medallion Patrol Captain courses, overseeing reforms that continue to shape the development of thousands of new members each year.
His commitment to innovation extended to initiatives focused on the future of the movement, including the establishment of SLSA’s inaugural National Innovation Day, conceiving and chairing the Expanding Horizons Review and serving as the National Implementation Lead for Lifesaving CPR, supporting national improvements to CPR quality and education.
As National Chair, Chris also established the Youth Surf Life Saver of the Year Award, reflecting his commitment to recognising and developing the next generation of Surf Life Saving leaders.
Chris remains a dedicated and committed volunteer and continues to patrol with Elouera SLSC, additionally maintaining his membership and connection with Ulverstone SLSC and the Tasmanian Surf Life Saving community.
Thank you Chris for your service and commitment to SLS and Elouera 💙🤍🩵
