It's More Than Something to do on the Weekend

At just 15 years old, Xander M is already making a significant impact in the lifesaving community.

A proud member of Aspendale Life Saving Club, as well as St Kilda and Mentone, Xander joined lifesaving in the 2023/24 season and hasn't looked back since.

Living in Cheltenham and attending St Bede's College in Mentone, Xander is passionate about staying active. Whether it's playing footy, surfing or running, he's always on the move. But it's lifesaving that's become a true cornerstone in his life.

"I love the variety that lifesaving gives me," Xander says. "From patrolling and helping the community to competing and coaching the nippers, it's all so rewarding." He's already earned his Surf Rescue Certificate and is excited to complete his Bronze Medallion this season.

Xander's commitment to lifesaving goes beyond the beach. He's taken part in several LSV leadership programs, including the Youth Symposium, Champion Junior Lifesaver Development Day, and the U15 Development Camp in Anglesea – a highlight of his journey so far.

"The U15 Camp was amazing," he shares. "I learnt so much about leadership and how different people lead and work together. It really helped me understand how to be a better team member."

What's most inspiring is how Xander has applied these lessons outside of lifesaving. During a group project at school, he used the leadership skills he developed at camp to help his team work more effectively. "At first, everyone had different ideas, and it was hard to agree. But I remembered what I learnt – that people lead and work differently. I encouraged everyone to share their strengths, and it made a huge difference."

For Xander, lifesaving is more than a weekend activity. It's a place where he's made lifelong friends, discovered his leadership potential and found a way to give back to his community.