Primary was honoured to help bring together leaders and community representatives at Parliament House in Hobart, to celebrate 110 years of Royal Life Saving, and its enduring contribution to water safety and drowning prevention across Tasmania.
RLS TAS CEO, Michael Ilinsky, opened the event by acknowledging distinguished guests and reflecting on the organisation’s legacy as a leader in water education and lifesaving. He also highlighted the significant milestones achieved and the ongoing challenges in keeping communities safe around water.
Guests were privileged to hear from The Hon. Felix Ellis MP, Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management, who said that “lifesaving begins long before a life needs saving”, as he recognised the importance of strengthening drowning prevention efforts and building lifesaving capability across the community.
A highlight of the day has been the presentation of the first-ever Royal Life Saving Tasmania Commendation Award to Amelia Hodge, a student from St Patrick’s College, Launceston.
At just 12 years of age, Amelia demonstrated remarkable courage and composure when she rescued a four-year-old boy who had fallen into deep water at Port Sorell. Acting quickly, she entered the water and safely brought him back to shore; an extraordinary act that reflects the very essence of community lifesaving.
Amelia’s actions are a powerful reminder of the importance of water safety education and the impact it can have in critical moments.
We extend our congratulations to Amelia and our sincere thanks to all attendees and those who sent their best wishes including Members of Parliament, emergency services, local government, aquatic industry stakeholders and partners and our media friends – whose ongoing collaboration is vital in continuing this lifesaving mission.
