For many families in the Douglas Shire, joining the Port Douglas Surf Life Saving Club starts with a simple Sunday morning at the beach. For the Matuzelis family, it turned into something much bigger.

What began as supporting their young son Lochie in the Green Cap Nippers program quickly grew into a lifestyle centred around community, fitness and giving back.

Like many local families, Adam and Adele were busy with work and life, and rarely made time to simply head to the beach.

“We just wanted to be part of a community sport and get ourselves down to the beach each weekend,” they said. “Otherwise, you get busy and never make time for it.”

There were a few hesitations at the start.

“Just the crocs really… and the jellyfish,” they laughed. “All marine life in general.”

But like many who live in the region, they quickly realised that with the club’s focus on safety, and local knowledge, Four Mile Beach is a safe and well-managed place to enjoy the ocean. So they gave it a go.

At first, Sundays were about watching from the sidelines, learning how things worked and getting to know other families. Before long, they were helping set up the beach and becoming part of the club.

It did not take long to realise there was more on offer than just nippers.

Surf Life Saving creates opportunities for the whole family. Kids build confidence in the ocean. Adults learn new skills, improve fitness and become part of a supportive community. And most importantly, everyone gets to spend more time enjoying one of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

A turning point came after the club’s end of year reef trip.

“That’s when I really felt like I belonged,” Adele said. “It felt like being part of a team and a group of really enthusiastic people. I wanted to be part of that.”

From there, Adam and Adele fully embraced club life.

Within two years, both had completed their Bronze Medallion, First Aid and Age Manager qualifications. These nationally recognised certifications allowed them to step up onto patrol. Adam also took on a part time role in club administration, supporting the team behind the scenes.

“Completing the time trial for my Bronze Medallion was definitely a highlight,” Adele said. “It was something I trained for and achieved, and I’m really proud of it.”

And for Lochie, the impact has been just as powerful.

Now more confident in the water, he has formed strong friendships across age groups and schools and proudly wears his surf club colours around town.

“I love seeing the friendships Lochie has made,” Adele said. “He’s proud to put on his uniform, and he’s proud of us being on patrol.”

One of the most special moments for the family is simple but powerful. Lochie looking up at the patrol tower and seeing his mum and dad helping keep beachgoers safe.

It is a full circle moment. From watching on the sidelines to being part of something bigger.

Stories like this are what make the Port Douglas Surf Life Saving Club so special. It is not just about surf sports or patrols. It is about families, friendships and a shared connection to the beach.

The Matuzelis family is proof that you do not need experience to get started. Just a willingness to give it a go.

“Join the Surf Club,” they said. “It’s more than a club, it’s friendship. It gives people confidence in the surf, and what better beach to do it on than Four Mile Beach in Port Douglas.”