Ian Clifford

Ian Clifford joined Kiama Surf Club in late 1995. Like so many other parents of the time he wanted to ensure that his children were given the appropriate surf survival skills. From that initial joining time to the present he has become a dedicated long serving member of the club.

Overview

Ian became active within the club via the junior movement when he initially joined in 1995. He took on the position of water safety co-ordinator which he held for many years, until his children progressed to the senior ranks. He also did two years at JAC in 2003/5. He did his Surf Coach Training and acted as junior trainer along with other club members.

He also started senior patrols in 1996/97 and gained 100% in his first year and replicated that dedication in the many years that followed.

Ian took on the Club Captains position from 1998/2001
In 2003/04 together with Terry Ogle took out the prestigious Branch Lifesavers of the Year award.
Ian’s support of the club has seen over 20 years as Patrol Captain, a title he relinquished to his daughter Jess but continues to play a senior role with the patrol to this day.

Awards

Ian gained his Bronze Medallion in March 1996, and this was followed by his Advanced Resuscitation Certificate in October 1996 and his Silver Medallion IRB Driver in November 1996. He later went on to qualify for numerous other awards (see attached overview) including Training Officer for both Bronze Medallion and IRB courses. He was also on the Branch Board of Examiners for both disciplines over several years which greatly supported the club.

Other Activities

  • He was a part of Kiama’s IRB team from 1997 until the year 2000 when racing was suspended.
  • He managed the team with Angela Bamford in 99 and 2000 seasons.
  • He has been a mentor for many young IRB drivers on his patrol and did a lot of IRB maintenance work and motor repairs for many years.
  • He was also the Carnival water safety co-ordinator at Branch, Sydney Water and the Country Championships for many years.
  • He volunteered on the Jet Boat and for emergency call outs for 5-10 years
  • He sat on branch disciplinary committees’ numerous times.
  • He donated a $12,000 metal communications pole for the club rebuild.
  • He has been involved with many rescues, and major first incidents.