ABSTRACT
Like the digger [the lifesaver] risked his life in the service of others - at least on the weekend. He volunteered to put dedication to the community before his own selfish desires. Like the soldiers he trained hard for combat (against the elements and sharks rather than fellow men, disease and deadly poisons); the surf carnival was translated into friendly rivalry which required disciplined almost military training to achieve the perfect 'march past' in the surf carnival's parade. Just as men were tested in order to be inducted into the armed services, men were tested to enter the lifesaving unit.
