The passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II brings profound sadness to Royal Life Saving Society - Australia, our members and lifesavers across Australia.

We send our condolences to the Royal Family, and all our friends and colleagues across Britain and the Commonwealth, who feel her loss so deeply.

We reflect with great admiration and eternal gratitude on her Patronage, and her deep commitment to our lifesaving mission.

From the joy of the RLS Junior Respiration Award pinned proudly on her swim suit at age 12, to her most recent presentation of honours to colleagues, and everything in between, her support has been deeply felt, much cherished and of great inspiration.

Rest In Peace.

Current Royal Life Saving Australia President Dr Mitch Hartman said “Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s leadership is an inspiration to lifesavers all over Australia, and across the commonwealth. Her deep and personal commitment to swimming and lifesaving, and her interest in the Society’s work encouraged so many towards community service”.

Ms Pene Snashall, Royal Life Saving Australia President (2015-2018) and RLS Commonwealth Trustee, who traveled to Buckingham Palace and met Her Majesty for the Society’s 125-year anniversary in 2015, reflected on her conversation with Her Majesty about the importance of developing lifesaving skills among regional communities.

“In our short conversation I recall that Queen Elizabeth II speaking about the vast space that is Australia, and her understanding that being away from the coast didn’t eliminate the dangers of drowning or the importance of swimming and lifesaving skills. She was quietly spoken and incredibly welcoming”, said Ms Snashall.

Professor John Pearn AO, Royal Life Saving Medical Advisor and long-standing child drowning advocate, was awarded the King Edward VII Cup in 2015, the Society’s highest honour. Prof Pearn reflected on Her Majesty's integrity and the example of her leadership and service.

“Queen Elizabeth has been a tremendous role model for so many, and in so many walks of life. Her sense of service to others – is a core principle that underlies all our work. My wife Vena recalls speaking with the Queen like two grandmothers, sharing stories about her deep love for family. We send our condolences to her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren,” said Prof Pearn.