Busselton local wins Young Surf Lifesaver of the Year

Seventeen-year-old Kai Libricky has made waves for Busselton Surf Life Saving Club, taking home the prestigious Young Surf Lifesaver of the Year award at last month’s Surf Life Saving Western Australia (SLSWA) ceremony.

Selected from nominees across WA’s 31 surf clubs, Kai’s achievement was celebrated alongside 450 attendees, including SLSWA Chief Patron, Governor Chris Dawson.

The award recognises Kai’s dedication to improving lifesaving services, especially his successful revamp of Busselton’s patrol system.

“I recognised it was failing,” he said.

“We had quite a few cancelled patrols and weren’t able to set up flags consistently.

“Since introducing the new system, we’ve developed a more capable and stronger patrol team. Now you will see a team on Busselton beaches every weekend and public holidays.”

Volunteering an impressive 161 patrol hours this season, Kai has also strengthened ties with Perth clubs and Metro teams, along with training with marine rescue agencies and the WA JetSki Operator Team, helping to coordinate emergency callouts and search and rescue operations.

Like many local kids, Kai’s early years revolved around the beach.

At age six, his mum signed him up for nippers at Smiths Beach. He then joined Busselton’s program at age 10.

“It’s awesome – I still get to spend all my time at the beach; this is where my people are.”

Kai is particularly attracted to the different aspects of surf lifesaving.

“We have sports and education as well as the lifesaving side. But I really enjoy the lifesaving, primarily.

“Being at the beach with my mates, helping the community, that public engagement when people come up to the tent with questions – when I can help someone, it’s such a great feeling of achievement.”

This dedication is evident in his rescue efforts. During the Busselton triathlon’s children’s swim, Kai faced a challenging situation.

“I was on one of the IRBs (rescue boats) when we spotted a child panicking on top of her mother’s shoulders at the back of the swimming pack.

“Mum was underwater. We quickly made our way through, I pulled them both to safety, and got them to first aid as fast as we could. Seeing them safe and their relief made everything worthwhile.”

Kai’s skills also benefit the wider community. As a St John first responder,he recently attended a suspected cardiac arrest.

Although off-duty nurses were already assisting the elderly gentleman, “just having the skills and knowledge to help out and hopefully make somebody else’s bad day a bit better,” makes him proud and confident.

The strong bonds formed through lifesaving have shaped the young local’s life.

“The surf club is like one big family,” Kai said.

“We all support each other and share the same goals. Whenever someone wants to progress their skills, the club straight away says, ‘For sure, we’ll get you on courses and do more training.’ It’s just so supportive.”

“All my friends are here. I met my best mate through surf lifesaving. Everyone is so friendly and enjoyable to be around. One of the things I look forward to most is helping to promote this within our club and the region – we want to encourage it. We would love to increase our members so we can grow and offer the community even more.”

He said the Busselton club’s reputation for excellence filled him with pride. “Our club is amazing! We’re heavily involved in water safety for major events, such as the Jetty Swim and Ironman competitions.

“When we have hundreds of swimmers in the water at once, we band together on the rescue crafts, collaborating with neighbouring clubs. That teamwork and providing safety for so many people – it’s unique to our club.”

Besides safety, building relationships with the community, especially with beachgoers, remains a priority.

“We love engaging with the public. We always say good morning, share info about the beach conditions, and encourage people to chat with us.

“If you see us in the red and yellow, come say hello! We want to share our knowledge and love for the community, environment, and beach. Through these conversations, we hope to grow the surf club culture and connect with more people.”

Kai encouraged those considering joining a club to take the next step.

“There’s something for everyone here – whether that’s patrolling, surf sports, or just hanging out with your mates. You might help with the barbecue or admin, learn new skills, or use talents you already have. It’s a fantastic place that genuinely fosters growth and that family community feeling.”

Busselton SLSC President Shaun Caruana said Kai was an asset to the club, rising through the ranks over the years.

“Seeing him find his niche, be actively involved, and give back through volunteering, water safety events, and patrol initiatives is truly inspiring, and we look forward to him leading by example in the future.”

Kai remains grateful for his support network.

“When they called my name, it felt surreal. I was so happy! But I couldn’t have done this alone.

“My mum has been the taxi driver to events for most of my life, so I owe her a big thank you. My family has always backed me, helping with trips for training and competitions. I couldn’t be where I am today without the club, family, and friends.”

SLSWA President Heidi Gan OLY highlighted the importance of volunteers like Kai. “These dedicated members are the lifeblood of our movement, committing countless hours to saving lives and strengthening communities. Thanks to their efforts, no lives were lost between the red and yellow flags this past summer season.”