Keeping communities safe around water comes naturally to Nicole Burge, a lifeguard at SWELL Palmerston who’s been recognised by Royal Life Saving Society Northern Territory (NT) with an ‘Outstanding Community Service in Water Safety’ Award nomination.
As the leading water safety education and training provider in the Northern Territory, Royal Life Saving NT is focused on promoting aquatic safety and preventing loss of life and injury in aquatic environments.
The nomination recognises the important role aquatic team members play in supporting water safety, preventing drowning incidents and helping people of all ages confidently participate in aquatic activities. The SWELL team will attend the ceremony in Darwin on 30th July to support Nicole’s ongoing work.
“I’m honoured to have received this lifeguard award nomination,” said Nicole. “I love being a part of the aquatic industry, working by the pool every day, keeping people safe while they swim.”
About Nicole
Over the past two years, Nicole has become a familiar face at SWELL, supporting guests of all ages while promoting confidence and participation in aquatic activities.
For Nicole, being a lifeguard is a chance to make a real difference past the pool deck.
Recently, she helped a regular guest continue swimming after cancer treatment and the loss of an arm made it difficult for him to stay comfortable in the water.
“I sourced and modified a wetsuit so he could continue enjoying aquatics because it had become such an important part of his recovery and pain management,” Nicole said.
Nicole added that getting to know regular patrons has helped her support the wider community who visit the pool, and that the most rewarding and challenging aspects of her role have been ensuring everyone can safely enjoy the water, regardless of their background or experience.
“My biggest challenge has been learning how to effectively communicate with guests from diverse backgrounds to make sure they understand important water safety information,” she said.
By building trust and adapting her communication style, Nicole helps create a welcoming environment where community members can participate confidently and safely.
Keeping the community safe in and around water
SWELL Palmerston Venue Manager Ashley Stephens said Nicole consistently goes above and beyond to support guests and fellow team members.
“Nicole is diligent, observant, reliable and everything you could want in a lifeguard. She is here every morning at the crack of dawn and keeps everyone safe, no matter what they are doing.
“You couldn’t be safer in the water with her lifeguarding.”
Key facts:
- Recognition: Nicole Burge, Lifeguard
- Venue: SWELL Palmerston
- Location: Darwin, NT
- Award nomination: Outstanding Community Service in Water Safety Award nomination
- Organisation: Royal Life Saving Society Northern Territory (NT)
- Community impact: Supports swimmers of all ages and abilities to participate safely in aquatic activities
- Notable achievement: Modified a wetsuit to help a regular guest continue swimming during cancer recovery
- Focus: Water safety, inclusivity and community participation
- Award ceremony: 30 July 2026
Learn about Belgravia Leisure’s commitment to workplace health and safety here and to learn more about SWELL Palmerston, visit the website.
