Bond University has entered a transformative new partnership with Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) that brings together two organisations defined by high performance, community service and a relentless commitment to improving health and wellbeing.
The sponsorship of the Shaw and Partners Iron Series adds a new chapter to the University’s proud history in surf sports.
While Bond boasts a strong surf sports pedigree, producing world-class Iron Men and Women including current Shaw and Partners Iron Series competitors Jasmine Rayward and Cyra Bender, alongside alumni stars Joe Collins and Cory Taylor – the heart of this new collaboration lies in research that strengthens athlete welfare, enhances beach safety and drives national impact.
At its core, the partnership will unite SLSA with one of Australia’s leading research institutes - Bond’s Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare (IEBH), led by internationally recognised researcher Professor Julie Redfern AM.
Professor Redfern, a volunteer surf lifesaver and long-standing member of Terrigal Surf Life Saving Club, said the partnership brings together two organisations with a shared purpose.
“The Institute leads world-class research, engagement and training of emerging leaders, clinicians, system leaders and community members in the delivery of research that improves the health and wellbeing of Australians and influences policy and practice," she said.
“This partnership will unite our organisations with shared purpose, energy and a commitment to excellence. Our core focus is the advancement of co-supervised research and data-driven initiatives that deliver meaningful benefits for all. Together, we will co-design innovative and high-impact research programs, including new opportunities for our PhD students.”
In a year where ambition loves company has become a defining message for Bond University, the agreement with SLSA ushers in a new phase of co-supervised research and data-led innovation. As part of the partnership, Bond’s IEBH is considering the subsidy of a full-time three-year PhD stipend. Future research will target athlete welfare, safety, performance and community impact, with all publications jointly authored by both organisations.
Areas of potential collaboration include:
• Joint higher degree research programs
• Embedded HDR opportunities
• Co-supervised data analytics placements for qualifying students
Surf Life Saving Australia CEO Adam Weir said Bond University was a natural partner.
“Surf Life Saving Australia is proud to welcome Bond University as a valued supporter of the Shaw and Partners Iron Series,” he said.
“Their commitment to excellence, innovation and the development of Australia’s emerging athletes aligns perfectly with our vision for the sport.
“The partnership will also go beyond the beach. We will work together on student placement opportunities, research projects and initiatives that ensure both organisations remain at the forefront of development and innovation. We look forward to seeing where our ambitions can take us.”
Bond University Director of Sport Mike Collins said the partnership reflects Bond’s dual commitment to academic excellence and real-world impact.
“This collaboration connects our world-leading research capability with one of the nation’s most iconic community organisations,” he said.
“It strengthens pathways for our students, deepens our engagement with surf sports, and contributes meaningfully to the wellbeing of Australians.”
With shared ambition and a common commitment to performance, safety and community, Bond University and Surf Life Saving Australia are set to forge a partnership that reaches well beyond the surf - creating new knowledge, new opportunities for students, and lasting benefits for both organisations.