ADELAIDE, SA – The nation’s surf lifesaving community is in deep mourning following the sudden passing of John Baker AM ESM, President of Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA), who died unexpectedly this week in Adelaide.
John Baker was more than just a leader — he was a towering figure in the world of surf lifesaving. With over 40 years of dedicated service, he was widely admired for his unwavering commitment to coastal safety, his leadership, and his selfless volunteerism. His loss has reverberated across the country, deeply affecting thousands of members and volunteers in the lifesaving and emergency services communities.
Appointed President of SLSA in 2021, Baker brought a lifetime of operational expertise, integrity, and community spirit to the role. He previously served as President of Surf Life Saving South Australia and held several key leadership positions at Brighton Surf Life Saving Club, where his journey as a volunteer lifesaver began during his youth.
John’s outstanding service was recognized nationally. He received the Emergency Services Medal (ESM) for his contributions during emergency response efforts and was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in honor of his significant impact on community safety and volunteer service. These accolades reflected his lifelong dedication to saving lives and building safer, more resilient communities.
In a heartfelt tribute, Surf Life Saving Australia issued the following statement:
“John was a passionate surf lifesaver and visionary leader. He gave so much of himself to this movement, and his influence will be felt for generations. His leadership, generosity, and integrity have shaped our organization and saved countless lives. His passing is an enormous loss.”
Under Baker’s leadership, SLSA underwent significant growth and transformation. He championed reforms that enhanced national coastal safety, pushed for improved training and resources for regional surf clubs, and led efforts to foster diversity and inclusion across the lifesaving movement. His impact reached beyond the sand and surf, touching the lives of volunteers, first responders, and beachgoers across the country.
Tributes have also poured in from government leaders. The Premier of South Australia described Baker as “a true community hero whose leadership extended well beyond his role, leaving an indelible mark on public safety and volunteerism in Australia.”
John Baker is survived by his wife, children, and extended family, who have requested privacy as they grieve the loss of a beloved husband, father, and leader.
In his honor, surf clubs across the nation are flying their flags at half-mast. A public memorial service is expected to be held in Adelaide in the coming days, allowing members of the Surf Life Saving community to gather and pay tribute to a man whose life was defined by service, courage, and a relentless drive to protect others.
John Baker’s legacy will live on through every life saved, every volunteer he inspired, and every beach made safer by his tireless efforts.