Brett Norton-Smith to leave surf lifesaving after spending 60 years at clubs around Tasmania and Queensland

A life-changing experience as a child put Brett Norton-Smith on a collision course with surf lifesaving. Now, after helping others for 60 years, he wants to do something for himself.

Brett Norton-Smith at the Ulverstone Surf Life Saving Club. Picture: Simon McGuire.

A horror experience as a child led to Brett Norton-Smith wanting to be a surf lifesaver.

“In 1959, when I was 10 years old, my mate and I were swimming on South Burnie Beach, and my mate drowned that particular day,” Mr Norton-Smith said.

“He got caught in a rip, and the surf club people came that day and tried to revive him but couldn’t.

“I always said to my mum I was going to join the surf club when I was old enough, as you had to be 12 to join.

“So in 1961, I joined the Burnie Surf Life Saving Club.”

Brett Norton-Smith during his early days as a surf lifesaver. Picture: Supplied.

Over 60 years, Mr Norton-Smith has won two gold medals in paddle boarding at the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships, conducted thousands of rescues, and held committee positions – including president – at the five clubs he’s been at, the last of which was Ulverstone.

“It’s the camaraderie that has kept me going for as long as I have,” he said.

“There’s always people turning over in surf clubs, meeting new friends, and helping people through their journey in surf lifesaving.”

However, after a recent bout of cancer, Mr Norton-Smith said he decided to take a step back from surf lifesaving.

“Most of my time was being spent helping people at surf clubs and being a member of this club,” he said.

“After the treatment of my cancer, I decided that it was time to spend some time for myself. I want to play golf, go fishing and go motorbike riding.”

Surf Life Saving Tasmania spokesperson said Mr Norton-Smith had an “unwavering commitment” and had made “impactful contributions”.

“His impact has been seen across administrative, sporting, and lifesaving facets of the organisation, showcasing a profound commitment to the delivery and development of surf lifesaving activities,” the spokesperson said.

“Brett’s leadership has been nothing short of transformative, whether in the role of a coach, trainer/assessor, patrol captain, committee member, or mentor.

“With an impressive 60-year history of patrolling across five clubs throughout Australia, Brett has been involved in countless rescues, searches and incidents.

“Many owe their ability to return home safely to Brett’s tireless efforts and expertise.”