A Tribute to Mike “Peas” Tamblyn: Surf Boat Named for a Lifesaving Legend

Towards the end of 2024, Avoca Beach Surf Lifesaving Club Life Member Mike Tamblyn and his wife Carol had the pleasure of christening the club’s new Surf Boat in his name. 

Mike joined the surf club in the 1959/60 season gaining his Qualifying Certificate (now Lifesaving Certificate) as an action patrolling cadet. He achieved his Bronze Medallion in 1961 and his Instructor’s Certificate in 1966.

Mike patrolled the beach for 25 years, including as a Patrol Captain. He held many voluntary positions including: Junior Club Captain, Gear Steward, Club Vice-Captain and Secretary. He also held many roles on sub-committees including Life Member, Sponsorship, Chairperson of major Building Committee, Club Management, and House.

Over the years Mike received three big awards for his dedication to Avoca Beach – Patrolman of the Year, Clubman of the Year and in 1983 he was bestowed Life Member.  In 1990 he received the National Patrol award.  In 2023 he was bestowed Life Member of Central Coast Branch of Surf Life Saving Australia for the management of the surf boat competition, the upkeep of equipment, and sponsorship.

Mike is a Technical Official and as such officiates at Central Coast, NSW State and Australian National Championships.

Mike enjoyed the competition aspect of Surf Lifesaving which kept him fit for patrols.  His choice was surf boat rowing and he became an accomplished oarsman from the early age of juniors (1963 – 1963) into seniors, completing his rowing career in the masters rowing divisions.  Over a period of 60 years Mick achieved State and Australian medals in the Open division, with major achievements in the Masters division. 

He won Gold in 17 Central Coast Branch Titles, 10 NSW State Championships, 9 Australian National Championships and 2 World Life Saving Titles, along with numerous Silver and Bronze medals.

Mike’s showed great dedication and devoted lots of time over the years to preserve the history of Avoca Beach Surf Club, particularly in Surf Boats.  He is the historian and log keeper of all the boat crews that have competed for the Club since 1960.  Mike is an accomplished carpentry craftsman and loves to create trophies from old wooden surf boats.  Many clubs throughout Australia including Avoca Beach have a Mike Tamblyn trophy hanging on display or as a presentation trophy for members and sponsors.

The Surf Club Board of Directors fully endorsed the Surf Boat Committee’s selection of Mike to be given the honour of naming the new Surf Boat in his name: Mike “Peas” Tamblyn

The boat was built by Australia’s leading surf boat builder, Nathan Perry of Brookvale, and sponsored by Avoca Beach Surf Club Restaurant, Greg Mitchell Building, Combine Demolition Services, McGrath Real Estate Avoca Beach, and REVL Gymnasium Kincumber.

Congratulations, Mike, and thank you for your many years of service to Avoca Beach Surf Lifesaving Club and Australian Surf Lifesaving.