When thinking about what it means to be Australian, some of the first things that come to mind are mateship, larrikinism, perseverance, hard work and the generosity of volunteerism. The Surf Life Saving Movement certainly reflects all of these characteristics and in this short history, it is clear that the Umina SLSC has followed in the same tradition. From its earliest days, instigated initially by ‘youthful rebellion’, Umina SLSC has never wavered from its charter of sticking together to work for and with their community. The first fifty years has seen thousands of rescues, preventative actions and first aid assists. They have seen hundreds of volunteers trained in a huge array of Lifesaving and Life skills. There have been successes at Branch, State, National and World Carnivals. There have been many moments of individual bravery and team endeavours. There have been local supporters and sponsors who could understand the value of this organization and of the community working together. Most importantly, through it all, there has been the individual who has been willing to give up their own time to do something worthwhile for their mates and with their mates. This history is dedicated to those individuals.
1959/60
An unsanctioned party by the younger brigade of club members in the Ocean Beach clubhouse resulted in members being called before the Ocean Beach Club Committee. No penalty or suspension was given, just a wrap over the knuckles and told not to do it again. However, as a result, six young members (Max Tearne, John Breakwell, Les Wynne, Grahame Stockley, Jim Butt and Tony Collins) decided to try and form their own surf club at the southern end of the beach (known at that time to them as “the alley”) where they had always spent a lot of their time body surfing as the waves were better. At the time, many were current management position holders on the Ocean Beach Surf Club Committee. Max Tearne had been the Chief Instructor, Jim Breakwell the Treasurer, Jim Butt the Board and Ski Captain and Les Wynne was the Gear Steward.
With the support and guidance of Jack Hogan (proprietor of Ocean Beach Caravan Park) an initial meeting was held at 13 Albion Street Umina (the Breakwell’s residence) where it was decided to proceed with the formation of the new club. John Breakwell, as secretary, was to write a letter to branch seeking approval to start the club. John and Max Tearne attended the December branch meeting where the Umina club was officially affiliated.
Jack Hogan also sent a letter of support to Branch for the formation of the Surf Lifesaving Club. He and his wife Winn, were both tireless workers for the cause. Not only was he instrumental in supplying accommodation prior to the clubhouse’s first stage, he was also instrumental in acquiring land and control of club activities. He also wrote articles in the local paper on behalf of the club,
The 8th of January 1960 saw the official inauguration of Umina S.L.S.C and the club became affiliated with the Central Coast Branch. The Central Coast branch donated patrol flags, caps and a reel.
“Our thirteenth club was formed and affiliated, this being Umina, operating at the southern end of Ocean Beach, and this club has joined our other younger clubs, North Avoca Beach and Soldiers Beach-Norah Head, in solidifying their groundwork by industrious activities.” (Annual Report CCSLS 1959/60)`
Foundation members were Max Tearne (industrial chemist), John Breakwell (school teacher), Les Wynne (engineer), Grahame Stockley (salesman), Jim Butt (builder) and Tony Collins (navy). Jack Hogan was the foundation President and Dick Whitehorn was the Patron.
Kevin Tagg, an ex member of Ocean Beach also offered his patrolling services for the initial season. The first member of the club to gain his Bronze was Audie Voormuelen.