Surf Life Saving Queensland Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Surf Life Saving Queensland has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, volunteer engagement, and club operations.

Dedicated to ensuring beachgoer safety, Surf Life Saving Queensland fosters a robust community of volunteers and professionals to deliver essential lifesaving services, first aid training, and vital community safety programs, actively working to prevent drowning and champion surf safety across Queensland.

Leadership Roles at Surf Life Saving Queensland

  • Chief Executive Officer - John Oam
  • Chief Financial Officer & Company Secretary - David Nothard
  • Club President (Volunteer) - Irene Cats
  • President Agnes Water Surf Lifesaving Club - John Phelan
  • John Oam - Chief Executive Officer

    John Oam, the Chief Executive Officer at Surf Life Saving Queensland, directs the organization's overall strategy and operational execution. Overseeing the integration of volunteer and professional efforts, Oam ensures the effective delivery of lifesaving services, first aid training, and community safety programs. This leadership role involves driving initiatives to prevent drowning and promote surf safety, aligning departmental functions with the core mission of protecting beachgoers. By fostering strong relationships with stakeholders and community partners, John Oam advances the organization's commitment to building better communities through enhanced coastal safety awareness and educational outreach. The Chief Executive Officer's purview encompasses the strategic planning necessary to expand the organization's reach and impact across Queensland's diverse coastal regions, ensuring continuous improvement in service delivery and operational efficiency.

    David Nothard - Chief Financial Officer & Company Secretary

    David Nothard, the Chief Financial Officer & Company Secretary at Surf Life Saving Queensland, manages all financial operations and corporate governance. Overseeing fiscal planning, budgeting, and financial reporting, Nothard ensures the organization's financial health and compliance with regulatory requirements. This critical role involves safeguarding assets and optimizing resource allocation to support the delivery of lifesaving services and community safety programs. By providing strategic financial guidance, David Nothard supports the Chief Executive Officer in achieving organizational objectives and maintaining operational sustainability. The Chief Financial Officer & Company Secretary also ensures robust governance structures are in place, facilitating effective decision-making and accountability across all levels of the organization. Nothard's oversight extends to managing financial risks and identifying opportunities for revenue generation and cost efficiency, directly contributing to the long-term viability of Surf Life Saving Queensland's mission.

    Irene Cats - Club President (Volunteer)

    Irene Cats, the Club President (Volunteer) at Surf Life Saving Queensland, champions the engagement and support of the volunteer lifesaving community. Overseeing the strategic direction and operational effectiveness of volunteer-led initiatives, Cats ensures the consistent delivery of essential beach safety services and first aid training. This leadership position involves fostering a strong volunteer culture, driving recruitment efforts, and recognizing the invaluable contributions of individuals dedicated to surf safety. By collaborating closely with organizational leadership, Irene Cats advocates for the needs of volunteers and enhances their capacity to prevent drowning and promote coastal well-being. The Club President (Volunteer) plays a pivotal role in connecting the organization's broader mission with the grassroots efforts of local surf clubs, ensuring community needs are met effectively. Cats' focus remains on empowering volunteers and strengthening the network that underpins Surf Life Saving Queensland's vital work.

    John Phelan - President Agnes Water Surf Lifesaving Club

    John Phelan, the President Agnes Water Surf Lifesaving Club at Surf Life Saving Queensland, leads the operational activities and community engagement for a key local chapter. Overseeing the deployment of volunteer lifesavers, Phelan ensures the direct implementation of lifesaving services and surf safety protocols within the Agnes Water region. This role is crucial for maintaining high standards of beach safety and responding effectively to emergencies, directly contributing to the prevention of drowning incidents. By fostering local partnerships and community involvement, John Phelan strengthens the club's ability to deliver vital safety programs and first aid training. The President Agnes Water Surf Lifesaving Club serves as a direct link between the broader organizational objectives and the specific needs of the local coastal community. Phelan's dedication ensures the continued effectiveness of the Agnes Water club in protecting beachgoers and promoting a culture of surf safety.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Surf Life Saving Queensland Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Surf Life Saving Queensland?
    Surf Life Saving Queensland is led by John Oam (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as David Nothard (Chief Financial Officer & Company Secretary) and Irene Cats (Club President (Volunteer)).
    Who is part of Surf Life Saving Queensland’s executive team?
    The executive team of Surf Life Saving Queensland includes leaders such as John Oam (Chief Executive Officer), David Nothard (Chief Financial Officer & Company Secretary), Irene Cats (Club President (Volunteer)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Surf Life Saving Queensland have?
    Surf Life Saving Queensland has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Surf Life Saving Queensland’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Surf Life Saving Queensland includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Company Secretary, Club President (Volunteer), President Agnes Water Surf Lifesaving Club.