2026 Newcastle Permanent Hunter Junior Life Savers of the Year Announced

Two of the Hunter's brightest young surf lifesavers have been announced as the Newcastle Permanent Junior Life Saver of the Year at a ceremony at Caves Beach Surf Life Saving Club on the weekend.

Nobbys SLSC's Edith McNamara and Hamish Lawrence from Cooks Hill SLSC received the prestigious annual awards, recognising their leadership, dedication and unwavering commitment to surf lifesaving and the wider local community.

Merewether High student Edith joined nippers at a young age before following in her dad's footsteps and becoming a lifesaver. Enjoying her time on patrol, she assists her club by doing water safety for events, understanding the importance of supporting the community by keeping the beaches are safe.

Edith has also been called into action to support a patron who was struggling and was able to get them back to shore safely. She hopes to attain her Bronze Medallion and Inflatable Rescue Boats certification with the goal to join the club in IRB racing in the off-season.

Hamish attends Trinity College in Adamstown and has been dedicated to surf lifesaving since joining nippers in under 8s. He is involved in water safety at his club and is passionate about ensuring the public stays safe.

Hamish has been heavily involved in surf sports at his club, with the Ironperson his favourite event. He understands the importance of holding the Surf Rescue Certificate and Bronze Medallion in helping him become a better lifesaver now and into the future.

The presentation took place at the 2026 Newcastle Permanent Branch Championships, bringing together the region's most talented junior lifesavers to take part in several challenging events designed to showcase their surf awareness, teamwork and rescue techniques.

Hunter Surf Life Saving President Henry Scruton ESM said he was impressed by the strong field of contenders for the awards.

"Edith and Hamish are great examples of the next generation of surf lifesavers who have shown immense dedication, passion and knowledge that they will continue to instil in the community for years to come help protect our local communities," Mr Scuton said.

"It is wonderful to see record numbers across our junior lifesavers this season, meaning that more families are getting their children involved in learning about key beach safety messages, ensuring the future of lifesaving remains in strong.

"Newcastle Permanent has supported us for over 40 years, helping us keep initiatives like this running, our nippers programs thriving and our beachgoers safe."

 Newcastle Permanent spokesperson Greg Hooper said the Junior Surf Life Saver of the Year Award showcased the talents of young lifesavers across the region.

"Congratulations to Edith and Hamish on their outstanding achievement," Mr Hooper said.

"Both have demonstrated incredible leadership and dedication on top of excelling with their beach safety and water skills to help make a positive impact on their community. 

"Newcastle Permanent has proudly partnered with Hunter Surf Life Saving for 44 years, supporting vital programs to ensure the next generation of lifesavers receive the training and experience they need to help keep our beaches safe." 

The Hunter branch of Surf Life Saving NSW has 13 clubs, patrolling beaches from Hawks Nest to Catherine Hill Bay. Newcastle Permanent has been a proud partner since 1982.

Newcastle Permanent continues to invest into local communities each year through its partnerships, employee donations, volunteering, and fundraising programs.