TypeAgencyOther NamesIsland Bay Surf Lifesaving ClubIsland Bay Sunbathing and Swimming ClubIsland Bay Surf Life Saving AssociationDate Range1912-DescriptionEstablished in 1912 as the Island Bay Sunbathing and Swimming Club, the main objects at that time were to promote physical fitness through sunbathing and swimming in the sea. It was not long, however, before they were changed to promoting the art of saving and resuscitating the apparently drowned.
Between the two world wars the Club became active in training members in lifesaving and taking part in various competitions with other clubs outside and inside the Wellington area. A ladies section was formed during the War to assist patrolling the beach because several of the senior men were away.
The Club is a service organisation providing patrols on the Island Bay beach and, as numbers permit, adjacent beaches.
The method used in the Surf Lifesaving movement to maintain efficiency for rescue purposes is to hold competitions between clubs to test the members' skills, so surf competitions are an important part of club activities. Cook Strait was an important part of the Island Bay Club's life. It initiated the Cook Strait Boat Race and many members have swum Cook Strait - Keith Hancox doing the fastest time (as at 1973) and Perry Cameron first swim from south to north.
An indoor bowls section was formed in 1958 when the new club building was opened because it was felt full use should be made of this facility.
