Our Story
Every story has a beginning
The Heart Behind the Club
Minnie Water-Wooli Surf Life Saving Club is a true community-driven club, proudly drawing its members from across the Clarence Valley — including the villages of Wooli, Tucabia, Ulmarra, Minnie Water, and the city of Grafton and beyond.
Our journey began with a small but passionate group of volunteers who shared a simple goal: to protect our beautiful beach and support our local community. In those early days, the club operated out of the local community hall at “Nip Welsh” Park, right on the beachfront at Minnie Water. With no clubhouse of our own, we made do with a few shipping containers to store equipment and even used one as a patrol office.
The park’s namesake, Nip Welsh, was a respected fisherman with deep ties to the area. His son, Neill “Ebor” Welsh, carried forward the family’s strong connection to the ocean and is widely recognised across Australia for his remarkable service to Surf Life Saving.
As the club grew, so did our vision. With increasing membership and community support, it became clear that we needed a dedicated space of our own. Through the tireless efforts of committee members, local supporters, and the backing of both Local and State Government, our purpose-built clubhouse became a reality in 2010.
From humble beginnings to a strong, community-focused organisation, our club stands as a testament to what’s possible when people come together with purpose, passion, and pride.
Celebrating 30 Years in 2025
2025 SLSNC Branch Awards of Excellence
In 2025, Minnie Water-Wooli Surf Life Saving Club proudly celebrates 30 years of service, community, and coastal care. Since our founding in 1995, we’ve grown from a small group of dedicated volunteers into a vibrant, values-driven club that stands as a pillar of support for the Clarence Valley. Over three decades, we’ve kept our beach safe, nurtured generations of lifesavers, and built lasting connections within our community. As we mark this milestone, we honour our past, celebrate our present, and look forward to a future shaped by respect, service, community, and growth.
