Step back in time and dive into the captivating history of the Mermaid Beach AEME Surf Life Saving Club, as told by the very people who lived it. In this meticulously crafted and visually stunning hardback, Mermaid Tales - The First 50 Years, authors Graham Wilson and Graeme Trethewey take you on a journey that transcends mere chronicles.
Founded by serving soldiers from the Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers in 1945, when the sands of Mermaid Beach were named Los Angeles Beach, the Club's evolution has been anything but ordinary. Through the eyes of those who were there, this book paints a vivid picture of a place where a unique blend of individuals, from army craftsmen to civilian ‘tradies’ to local businessmen, came together, united by a shared purpose – patrolling Mermaid’s unpredictable shores and safeguarding the community.
While the world of surf lifesaving changed around them, Mermaid lifesavers remained steadfast in their Club’s commitment to the founding ethos of volunteering, and their remarkable journey took them to unforeseen heights. From close encounters with the ocean's most efficient predator to daring rescues and heartwarming acts of courage, "Mermaid Tales" offers a gripping personal insight into a Club that has truly made a difference.
This book isn't just about milestones and events; it's a living, breathing testament to the Club's roots, values and culture. It's about the people who, over five decades, turned a humble post-war initiative into a beloved and award-winning community institution. Based on more than seventy interviews, including attention-grabbing anecdotes and firsthand accounts, this narrative is a living tribute to the history and spirit of the Mermaid Beach AEME Surf Life Saving Club, a small club that fights well above its weight from beneath the Norfolk Pines of Hedges Avenue.
Whether you're a lifelong member, a surf lifesaving enthusiast or simply a lover of incredible stories, Mermaid Tales - The First 50 Years is a keepsake you won't want to put down. Packed with action photos and heart-felt personal stories that reveal an unwavering commitment to surf lifesaving and the camaraderie it fosters, this coffee-table book is a treasure that belongs in your lounge-room. "Mermaid Tales" is more than a story; it's a piece of history, a tale of resilience, and a testament to the power of community.
You can secure your copy by completing this jotform. If you have any questions at all please call the Mermaid Beach SLSC Office on: 5575 3668 or Email: surfclub@mermaidslsc.org.au