First Female President

Historic Milestone for Coogee SLSC: Sharon Deans Elected First Female President
COOGEE, NSW.
In a landmark moment for one of Australia’s oldest surf life saving clubs, Coogee Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) has elected Sharon Deans as its new President at the recent Annual General Meeting. Sharon's appointment marks the first time a woman has held the top leadership position in the club’s 119 year history.

Sharon takes the helm during a pivotal time for the club, bringing with her an extensive background in surf life saving and community leadership. In the last 12 months the club has voted in their first female life member and taken out the Sydney Branch Club of the Year and Community Engagement of the Year. 
Having been an active member of Coogee SLSC for 17 years, Sharon has previously served in vital roles including Vice President, Assistant Director of Competition and Beach Captain and is still actively patrolling, receiving her 15 year National Patrol Service award in 2024.
Sharon is a champion for youth and an advocate for evolution and inclusion across the movement including her role at SLSA as their Participation Coordinator and as a 
qualified SLSA Performance Coach and Technical Official.
"It is an incredible honour to be elected President of Coogee SLSC, a club that has been a second home to me for many years," Deans said. "While I am proud to be the first woman in this role, my focus is firmly on the future of our entire membership. 
"This season and beyond I aim to strengthen patrolling member capabilities on the 
sand; continue to innovate in everything we do; upgrade of training and education 
facilities and support the Nipper program to be the best it can be for our young people". Outgoing President for the previous 3 seasons, Ben Heenan expressed strong support for the new leadership. "Sharon has been a wonderful Vice President of the Club over the past three years and I have no doubt she will step into the President's role with enthusiasm, skill and the best interests of all our members in the forefront of her mind."
Coogee SLSC, founded in 1907, has a long and proud history of patrolling one of Sydney’s most iconic beaches. Sharon's election reflects the evolving nature of surf life saving and the growing presence of female leaders across the movement. Sharon officially assumes her duties immediately as the club prepares for the upcoming summer patrol season.
The club would like to also thank our four outgoing executive members in President (Ben Heenan), Club Captain (Alexandra Scott), Secretary (Emily Miers) and Treasurer (Matthew Larkin) for their dedication and service over the last three seasons.