(NEWS) SYDNEY, 2025-Nov-25 — /Travel PR News/ — As the Australian summer approaches, Qantas and Surf Life Saving Australia are renewing their focus on coastal safety by teaming up with swimmer and long-time surf lifesaving volunteer Cody Simpson, according to their press announcement. The collaboration aims to draw more Australians to the Beach Passport, an online training tool designed to strengthen the public’s understanding of surf conditions before the crowds return to the coastline.
The Beach Passport, launched last year as a joint initiative between SLSA and the national carrier, offers simple digital lessons that help beachgoers recognise hazards and make safer decisions in the water. More than 37,000 people completed the program during its first season, signalling growing interest in accessible surf-safety education. This summer, the platform is adding a major update: a feature that helps users spot rip currents—one of the leading factors behind coastal rescues and drownings. Recent findings from SLSA show the real need for improvement, with many adults unable to identify a rip and thousands reporting they were unintentionally swept into one over the past year.
Simpson’s role adds a personal dimension to the campaign. A Gold Coast native who grew up around surf clubs and continues to volunteer with Northcliffe Surf Club, he brings first-hand knowledge of beach safety as well as the visibility of an elite athlete. He describes the Beach Passport as an easy commitment—just a short session that can boost confidence and potentially prevent tragedies during the busiest months of the year.
Surf Life Saving Australia CEO Adam Weir says the updated Beach Passport will play an important part in reaching communities ahead of the summer influx. The addition of a familiar figure like Simpson is expected to help the message travel even further, especially among younger beach visitors.
Qantas is supporting the effort by offering Frequent Flyers 150 Qantas Points for completing the program, plus the chance for one participant to receive one million points. The airline is also weaving beach-safety messaging into its customer channels, including the Qantas App and onboard announcements throughout the holiday period.
Australians can access the Beach Passport at beachpassport.org.au or by scanning QR codes displayed across popular coastal destinations. The initiative builds on Qantas’ longstanding backing of SLSA through ongoing funding and staff-supported community grants.
