As we descend into the beach precinct I notice a sign on this shop hoarding which convinces me I
should research the origins of surf life saving in this country. Here's what I found in Wikipedia:

"Surf lifesaving originated in Australia in 1906 in response to drownings at local beaches in
Sydney. Such groups became necessary following the relaxing of laws prohibiting daylight bathing on
Australian beaches. Volunteer groups of men were trained in life saving methods and patrolled the
beaches as lifesavers looking after public safety.

The original surf life saving club is a matter of contention between the Bronte and Bondi beach
clubs in Sydney. Bronte Surf Life Saving Club claims to be the “First Surf Club in the World since
1903”. This is based on minutes of a meeting held in 1907 (found at the local library in 1982),
which was noted to be the fourth AGM of the club, as well as a time capsule from 1931 (unearthed
during renovations of the club house) in which documents record then President and Gen. Secretary
of Surf Lifesaving Australia unanimously declaring Bronte to be the first club. The Bondi Surf
Bathers Life Saving Club also claims to be the “world’s first life saving club”. It was officially
established on February 21, 1907 at the Royal Hotel in Bondi - as was recorded in the newspaper The
East Sydney Argus, and in the Waverley Council Minutes acknowledging receipt of a letter from the
newly formed group.

According to current evidence, it may therefore be correct to say Bronte was the 'first' club, but
Bondi was the 'first official' club."