St Joseph’s student, Torquay SLSC member Harris Henderson represents Victoria

At just 17, St Joseph's Year 12 student and Torquay SLSC member Harris Henderson will represent Victoria in a face off against California’s best lifeguards.

St Joseph's Year 12 student and Torquay SLSC member Harris Henderson, 17, has been chosen to represent Victoria to compete against Los Angeles Lifeguards in mid-July. Picture: Mike Dugdale

A Torquay surf lifesaver is headed to California, chosen to represent Victoria to compete against Los Angeles Lifeguards in a prestigious biennial event.

Harris Henderson, 17, will compete in the 27th Wieland Shield - a series of aquatic sport competitions that represent a longstanding relationship between the Los Angeles County Lifeguards and the Victorian State Surf Life Saving Association of Australia helf from July 16 to August 3. .

Harris, a Torquay Surf Life Saving Club member and St Joseph’s College student, is the youngest member of Victoria’s team of six males and four females.

He was selected based on results at all Victorian carnivals, including Victorian Championships and Australian Championships during the 2024/25 season.

At the State Titles in 2024, Harris took out second in the U19 Board Race and 3rd in the Open Male Board Race.

As a U19 competitor Harris made it to the Australian titles Board final by coming 5th.

He said he had been surf lifesaving since he was just seven years old, and now can’t go more than two days out of water.

“I genuinely love the ocean,” he said.

“It’s my escape from life, I leave all problems behind and go into a flow state in those long-distance paddles.

“And the connections I’ve made at surf lifesaving, they’re some of my best friends.”

Harris said he was thrilled his dad was coming along to coach the team.

“My mum and sisters are staying home, they’re pretty proud,” he said.

Harris said he would miss three weeks of term three for the trip.

“Not ideal in year 12, but we will manage,” he said.

St Joseph’s College Principal Tony Paatsch said Harris, who is the school’s deputy captain, was proving to be an outstanding leader.

“He is a strong positive role model to others in managing multiple commitments including elite sport training, excellent application to his studies and his leadership role,’’ he said.

Harris has begun fundraising for his trip online.

Originally published as St Joseph’s student, Torquay SLSC member Harris Henderson represents Victoria