Malcolm grew up at Taylors and the bay has always been part of his life. His family have had strong links with Taylors. Brothers Wayne and Nigel also competed for Taylors and his parents were SLSNZ officials. Ross Erikson and Bob Hopkins were his first coaches and Malcolm indicates that people like Neville Duckmanton and Paul Carpinter gave him an interest in club administration.
Malcolm obtained his surf bronze in 1970 and subsequently his Instructors, IRB Crew, IRB Driver and coaching Level 1 Certificates. Malcolm indicates that the sport provided an opportunity to travel to amazing beaches, especially in the North Island (Ouakura, Waipu Cove, Midway, Whakatane…). He fondly remembers the social activities of the club and staying with friends in the bunk house!
As a competitor, Malcolm had success in several national championships – NZ Champion in the Junior Double Ski and Ski rescue and a member of senior teams to win the Nelson Shield (6-man R&R) and Taplin Relay. In addition, he has won numerous Canterbury and South Island titles.
Malcolm’s contribution to club administration has been significant. He has been a member of the committee for 50 years, a patrol captain, coach, junior surf coordinator and president. He was made a life member in 2005. In addition, he has been a Canterbury SLSA official. He is still active in numerous club activities.
Malcolm contributed significantly to archiving photographs for the club’s 75th Jubilees and arranged and helped with numerous alterations to the old club house. He has also performed numerous rescues in patrol hours and outside of patrol hours as well.
Malcolm reflects on the success of the U14 programme but suggests that retaining such members when they get to 16 years is an ongoing challenge. Since joining in 1969 Malcolm has witnessed a significant change in the standard of life guarding and acknowledges that it is now a professional service.
