Umina succeeds at surf championships

Umina was competitive in all departments at the NSW Junior State Surf Life Saving Championships held from February 29 to March 2.

The club had 33 finals placings that covered under-8s to the under-14 age groups, almost doubling last year's achievement of 17 finals placings.

The club capped off a successful year with silver medals in the senior board rescue to Jackson and Lavers; under-13 board relay to Moore, Baker, Moate and Jackson; under-9 male board to Joel Dennis-Hall; and gold medals in under-11 female board to Marissa Moore and under-13 iron man Liam Jackson.

Club president Mr Brian Paull paid tribute to all of the junior competitors: "This year's results were the best that Umina has had in many years."

Brian also thanked outgoing surf coach Peter Noble, who is retiring from coaching, saying "there will always be a place for Peter at Umina".

The club has already secured the services of Gosford Council's Phil Moore as head surf coach for next season.

Brian Paul said: "We are looking forward to working with Phil, and are sure of some exciting times ahead for Umina SLSC as Phil builds on the momentum within the junior ranks generated by Peter Noble, Garry Mensforth and Tony Bainbridge."

At the recent Central Coast Branch Junior surf lifesaving carnival, Umina continued its push up the competition ladder, finishing in first place on handicap and fourth on overall points.

The junior development program at the club has resulted in two members of the club representing the Central Coast, one member representing NSW, and a dramatic increase in top six placings across the whole club, he said.

The club recently placed second in the Central Coast Rookie Challenge.

An increased junior membership augured well for the club, said Mr Paull, as junior members would eventually become senior patrolling members, helping to keep our beaches safe.

Press release, March 3