Four Mile lifeguard named North Queensland Lifeguard of the Year

Four Mile Beach is a safer place when Jon Murray is on duty, according to Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) who announced Jon as FNQ’s top lifeguard this week.

Murray has been announced as Lifeguard of the Year for the North Queensland region in recognition of his efforts over the past year where he has taken a highly active role in training staff.

After moving to FNQ in 1990 from Victoria, Jon quickly fell in love with the lifestyle and his work.

“I just love waking up and going to the beach every day. What’s not to like about that?” said Jon.

“My favourite thing about being a lifeguard is the daily interactions. I talk to people every day on the beach and I love seeing all the local regulars.

Jon used to work regularly at Four Mile Beach but these days Palm Cove is his favourite beach to work at.

“Unfortunately, I don’t get up to Four Mile much anymore because there’s a couple of Port boys now that cover most of it. That's ok, Palmy is much closer to home,” he laughs.

SLSQ State Lifeguard Coordinator Calan Lovitt said it is great to see Jon sharing his wealth of knowledge from his experiences patrolling beaches with other lifeguards.

“Jon has gone from strength to strength across his 20-year career and is always looking for ways to improve the service,’ Mr Lovitt said.

“It is great to see him taking the time to share his knowledge with other lifeguards as it assists them prepare for a range of incidents they may be faced with on our beaches.

Jon will now go on to represent the region at the Surf Life Saving Queensland Awards of Excellence where the Queensland Lifeguard of the Year will be announced.