Learning About Surf Life Saving

In the class before we went to Maroubra to watch surf life saving, we learned the specifics of surf subculture in Australia and how it fits into society here. Surfing was originally seen as a druggie or slacker sport, but over time became culturally accepted as a family-friendly sport. Aboriginals were also included in the history of the surf subculture in Australia. Tommy Tanna was the first person that showed people how to body surf. We also learned about the three types of boards that people use to surf. The paipo is a four foot board, the alaia is between 7 feet and 12 feet, and the olo is between sixteen and twenty-four feet, which is only used for "surf royalty." Surf Life Saving is very different than the typical surf subculture because it is taken very seriously. The surf subculture is a very laid back and relaxed lifestyle, but surf life saving involves people's lives in danger. The surfing youth had their own music, language, fashion, hair styles, etc. It really took on many subcultures in itself and created a new lifestyle for Australian youth in the 1960s. Since the 1970s, there has been a growth in the number of surf competitions around the world and a definite growth in the amount of prize money that is offered. In Australian history, surfing is seen as a symbol of freedom. I think surfing is such a beautiful culture and it is so much fun in America to be able to see surfers in California or on the North Shore of Hawaii. They brave the water and just have such an adventurous spirit to want to find that "perfect wave." However, Surf Life Saving is something I've never known about before, so it was really unique and interesting to learn a little bit about the importance of it in Maroubra. So many people wish to take part in something so important and so honorable.