Newport Surf Life Saving Club is celebrating one of their own, Ted Smithies, who has been recognised for his incredible and long-lasting success in Masters surf life saving competitions, earning him a place among the sport’s legends.
The Masters Legends award, given out during the Masters Competition at the 2025 Australian Surf Life Saving Championships (The Aussies), honours competitors over the age of 35 who have shown exceptional results consistently over many years. This year marks the 32nd year of the Masters Championship at The Aussies, and alongside Smithies, three other outstanding Masters competitors were also acknowledged for their contributions to surf lifesaving.
A Champion’s Record
Ted Smithies has an impressive record in Masters beach events, securing 31 gold, three silver, and three bronze medals between 2001 and 2024 in disciplines like beach sprint, relay, and flags. His winning streak continued into 2025 when he claimed another gold medal in the 70-74 years Male Beach Flags event. Further highlighting his skill on the international stage, Smithies achieved a gold medal in the beach sprint at the 2016 World Championships held in the Netherlands.
Contribution to the Club and Community
Smithies’ dedication extends beyond competition. In 2022, he was made a Life Member of Newport SLSC. He has been an active patrolling member for 25 years, demonstrating his commitment to beach safety. During this time, he has also held several positions on the club’s management committee and various sub-committees.
Newport SLSC noted on Thursday, April 17th, following the announcement of the awards by Surf Life Saving Australia, their pride in Smithies’ induction into the SLSA masters hall of fame, recognising his ongoing remarkable achievements in beach sprints and flags. Furthermore, Smithies is known for his active role in mentoring new patrolling members, guiding them and encouraging them to take on more responsibilities within the club.
Other Masters Honoured
Three other distinguished athletes joined Smithies in receiving the Masters Legends award. Laura Thurtell from Bondi Surf Bathers Life Saving Club in New South Wales began competing as a Master in 2006 and has consistently achieved podium finishes across various events, including surf, board, tube, ironwoman, ski, beach, and pool rescue. Between 2019 and 2022, she won an impressive 19 gold medals.
Rod Taylor from Mooloolaba SLSC in Queensland started competing in individual Masters beach events in 2003 and has been a continuous podium finisher since then across various disciplines. At the 2023 championships, he was the most successful master in the over-70 years age group, winning every event he entered.
Louise Santos, also from Bondi SBLSC in New South Wales, achieved significant success between 2005 and 2023, winning 32 gold, 19 silver, and 19 bronze medals in Masters competitions, including Ironwoman, R&R, board, and pool rescue events. Surf Life Saving Australia has congratulated all four athletes for their outstanding achievements and dedication to the sport.
Published Date 09-May-2025
