Water Safety & Surf Life Saving Cook Islands Incorporated (WSSLCII) in collaboration with Cook Islands Tourism, has awarded 15 new Cook Islands Bronze Medallion recipients their certification, with two recipients also receiving Instructor status to assist with continuing the programme. In 2019, WSSLCII gained full membership of the International Life Saving Federation (ILS Asia-Pacific - ILS Full Member) which also grants WSSLCII the ability to issue ILS recognised Certificates, including the Bronze Medallion certification. The Cook Islands Bronze Medallion (CIBM) was established under WSSLCII to promote water safety, drowning prevention, and to implement rescue strategies in the Cook Islands.

Participants who took up the programme, underwent a 2-week training regimen under Chief Surf Lifesaving and Training Instructor, Lisa Maddison, a Bronze Medallion accredited facilitator from Gold Coast, Australia. The course involved rigorous theory and practical application sessions both in the classroom and out on the water.Lisa Maddison said “I was quite impressed with the dedication and eagerness of participants wanting to learn new skills and how this can further help strengthen their water safety skill and knowledge.” Christian Mani, Director of Destination Development said “It’s important we create opportunities for the tourism industry to further strengthen their operations and ensure safety in and on our waters are paramount”. Mani also said, “now that borders are open, it is timely that residents and water based tourism operators are provided with the skills and knowledge of water safety awareness in order to participate in life saving operations out on the water, should the need arise.” 

Congratulations to all recipients of the Cook Islands Bronze Medallion for 2022.    

Cook Islands Bronze Medallion Recipients

1. Alberio Lazaro
2. Apolo Johnson
3. John Lindsay Young
4. Mark Castledine
5. Louisa Castledine
6. Dane Ravenga Teau
7. Charlotte Piho
8. Kato Tuara
9. John Engu
10. Daniel Tatuava
11. Donald Hallin
12. Jonathan Samuela
13. Bernadette King
14. Kevin Chaloner
15. Kaliana Mcmahon

Cook Islands Bronze Medallion Recipients - Instructor Status

1. Mark Castledine
2. Louisa Castledine