Boardies in the boardroom helps Surf Life Saving

Surf Life Saving has launched its biggest fundraiser of the year, Boardies Day. Boardies Day has an additional event for 2013, Bosses in Boardies, where bosses and CEOs are called upon to swap their suit and tie for board shorts. The day invites schools, communities and workplaces to swap their usual attire for flattering or downright hideous board shorts.

Held on Friday, February 22, 2013, participants have between now and then to reach Surf Life Saving’s goal of $1 million – a small amount considering that surf lifesavers gave more than 1 million hours of their own time last year to keep Australian beaches safe.

More than 12,600 people were rescued by surf lifesavers last year. As dedicated teams head into the busiest period of the year, it’s vital to ensure this iconic part of Australia’s culture remains intact.

“If we could raise one dollar for every hour that our surf lifesavers gave of their own time last year, we’d reach our fundraising goal,” says Surf Life Saving Foundation CEO Steve Francia.

“People expect our volunteers to be there, providing a safe environment for Australians to enjoy beaches and waterways throughout the country. What many may not realise is that it costs a lot of money each year to keep our volunteers on our beaches equipped with the gear and training required.”

Every dollar raised counts; a $120 rescue tube was used in 2,927 rescues on Australian beaches last year alone. The annual fundraiser will next year include “Bosses in Boardies” to entice the corporate sector and competitions to promote mass community involvement.

“We are encouraging bosses to challenge their employees to reach a fundraising target, and if they succeed, the bosses will wear board shorts or beach attire to work on Boardies Day,” says Francia.

For more information or to register, log onto www.boardiesday.com.au.