Body Armour Partners with SLSQ

Guardians of the Coast: Supporting the Lifesavers Who Keep Queensland Safe

How proper hydration keeps the heroes protecting our beaches safe, focused, and ready to save lives.

The red and yellow legacy

Every summer, Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) volunteers step into the surf, patrolling more than 30,000 kilometres of Queensland's coastline. They're the steady hands guiding swimmers between the flags, the watchful eyes scanning for danger, and the heartbeat of a community built on service, courage, and connection.

What many don't see behind the smiles and rescues is the physical and mental strain that comes with the role. Long shifts under the sun, constant vigilance, and the demand for sharp decision-making in seconds: lifesaving is more than a duty; it's a test of endurance.

"Our volunteers operate in tough conditions: long hours in the heat, constantly alert, and often making split-second decisions that save lives. Hydration plays a huge role in maintaining that focus and performance," says Zoe Bickerstaffe, General Manager Marketing & Membership, Surf Life Saving Queensland. "We're grateful for partners like Body Armour who help us look after our lifesavers, so they can keep looking after Queensland."

The invisible threat - dehydration on the beach

Dehydration doesn't just cause fatigue. It can slow reaction times, impair judgment, and reduce physical performance by up to 30%, with as little as a 2–3% fluid loss having the same cognitive impact as a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08%. That's the legal driving limit: a sobering reminder of how crucial hydration is when the stakes are high.

When the temperature rises, the risk compounds. Research shows the chance of injury increases by over 50% when temperatures climb above 32°C. In Queensland's tropical conditions, maintaining hydration isn't optional: it's lifesaving in itself.

Hydration support for Queensland surf lifesavers

This season, Body Armour is proud to partner with Surf Life Saving Queensland to support patrol members across the state with hydration products designed for high-performance environments.

Lifesavers are often the first to arrive and the last to leave; our role is simply to ensure they have the fuel to keep doing what they do best.

"We’re passionate about producing healthier alternatives for everyone: products that support performance, protect wellbeing, and create better habits for life," says Toni McQuinn, Body Armour Director.

"Together, we'll champion the importance of hydration for Queenslanders, through education and delivering clean, premium hydration backed by modern science."

Supporting Surf Life Saving Queensland community events and volunteer training

More than hydration it’s about a commitment to the Queensland community.

From surf carnivals and volunteer training days to community events and education programs, SLSQ's impact runs deep. It's a story of people who give their weekends, summers, and holidays to keep others safe: not for recognition, but for pride and purpose.

We’re honoured to walk alongside this movement, attending key events throughout the season and providing hydration support at patrol stations, club gatherings, and surf lifesaving championships across Queensland.

Because when it comes to saving lives, every detail matters: every decision, every second, every drop.

"Lifesaving is built on community. When local businesses step up to support that community, it strengthens the whole movement, both on and off the beach," says Chris McCarroll, Marketing & Brand Manager.

Looking ahead

Queensland's beaches are among the most beautiful and challenging in the world. Behind every red and yellow flag stands a volunteer who's ready, trained, and supported to save lives.

Here's to a safe, hydrated, and successful season ahead.

We'll see you between the flags.