Lifesavers on parade

Australia’s marching gay and lesbian lifesavers are back for their 4th Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade and are calling for lifesavers from all over Australia to join their amazing parade float.

In keeping with the Mardi Gras theme of history, more than 80 lifesavers, dressed in the distinctive red and yellow, will dazzle the expected crowd of 500,000 with a dance routine displaying the various methods of surf lifesaving since its origin.

The origin of surf lifesaving was written into Australia’s history when in 1902 a keen swimmer, William Gocher, defied the law by swimming at Manly Beach during daylight hours.

From that moment daylight surf bathing grew in popularity and its dangers became rapidly apparent, leading to the formation of lifesaving bodies to help those who needed rescuing.

Each year, surf lifesavers spend close to one million voluntary hours patrolling beaches.

“Surf lifesaving is a great way to give back to the community and make life-long friendships, while also being a fantastic way to keep fit,” said co-float organiser Mark Kuuse, of North Bondi Surf Club.  “I urge every gay and lesbian who loves the beach to find out how they can become a lifesaver at their local surf club”.

The 2010 message is that lifesaving is for everyone: all nations, all religions and all sexuality are welcome in Australia’s surf life saving movement.

“We need to remind people Lifesavers with Pride isn’t a beauty pageant either – we accept all people regardless of looks.  We’re all about saving lives,” Kuuse said.

Register your interest to march in this year’s parade at www.lifesaverswithpride.blogspot.com