Thirty ADF surfers made waves on the south coast of NSW at the ADF Women’s Surf Development Camp in early March.

The four-day camp consisted of water safety and surf rescue training, surfing skill development and tutelage and condition-based surf progression sessions.

The camp catered to beginner and experienced surfers and was led by former world champion Pam Burridge and her professional coaching team.

Following her 20-year career on the world professional tour, the 1990 world champion now shares her expertise by running these development camps for the ADF several times a year.

“Surfers are often the first responders when there are no flags or lifesavers, so learning how to use a board as a flotation device to rescue someone is vital,” she said.

“Whether it’s a broken leg rope or someone in trouble, these skills ensure they know how to bring themselves and others in safely.”

Among the participants was Leading Seaman Anna Bailey, a military recruiter based in landlocked Canberra, who returned for her second stint at the camp. 

'Surfers are often the first responders when there are no flags or lifesavers, so learning how to use a board as a flotation device to rescue someone is vital.'

After starting as a complete beginner a year ago, she said the program provided a great experience that pushed her beyond her comfort zone.

“The first camp I went on was awesome and definitely one of the highlights of my career,” Leading Seaman Bailey said.

“It took me a couple of days to be able to stand up on the board and now I’m going out and catching unbroken waves.”

Leading Aircraftwoman Logan Bailey also returned for her second year, after her first camp inspired her to buy her own board and take up the sport.

“It is a great way to meet people outside of an office setting,” she said.

“I’ve made some great friends from the service who are still in today, and it’s just a fun week as well.”

For Major Jamielle Knight, the camp was more than just a sporting event – it was an opportunity to build grit and mental clarity.

She said the focus required to catch a wave provided a rare opportunity to disconnect from work and remain entirely in the moment.

“I found it really calming. You really feel present because you’re concentrating so much on the task in front of you,” Major Knight said.

“By the end of the week, there’s 30 other women in Defence that have become a cohort, and that will encourage each other to continue on and spend more time in Defence.”

The members’ newfound confidence and skills will be put to the test if the surfers choose to compete in the ADF Surfing National Carnival this May.