A Milestone Reached: 50 Years of Patrolling

Tony on patrol with his sons, Matt & Tom.

Anthony 'Tony' Waller OAM is more than a Governor of Coogee SLSC. He is a custodian of its values, a mentor to its members, and a symbol of what lifelong service truly looks like. His contribution spans eras of change in surf lifesaving, yet his commitment has remained constant. He has recently been honoured with the SLSA 50 year National Patrol Service Award.

Fifty years of patrolling is rare. Fifty years of patrolling with distinction is extraordinary.
Some interesting facts: From the 1975/76 season, Tony completed 25 consecutive seasons of 100% patrol attendance, a feat recognised in the Club’s 94th Annual Report and achieved by only one other member at the time. In an era when patrol commitments totalled 50 hours per season, Tony contributed 1,250 hours across those 25 years — every hour accounted for, every duty fulfilled. 

In 1984/85, Tony expanded his service beyond the beach, joining the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter crew. For 42 years, he has patrolled the coastline from above, providing critical aerial surveillance and rescue capability.

Tony reached his 50‑year milestone in the 2025/26 season. Fifty years of vigilance. Fifty years of service. Fifty years of showing up — for his Club, his community, and the countless people whose safety depended on the watchful eyes of surf lifesavers amongst his many other emergency services commitments.

His award reflects a career defined not by accolades, but by consistency, reliability, and an unshakeable sense of duty.

Today, Coogee Surf Life Saving Club proudly honours Governor Anthony “Tony” Waller OAM — a man whose dedication has safeguarded our beach, strengthened our Club, and inspired generations. His legacy will endure as long as the waves roll into Coogee.