WANDA’S CONNECTION WITH JAPAN

WANDA’S CONNECTION WITH JAPAN

We thank Wanda Life Member, Tait Brannock, for contacting us this week to highlight Wanda’s connection with Japan, and in particular with our sister club, Yugawara LSC! It is timely for us to reflect on the wonderful Japanese exchange program that Patron Emeritus, Ernest “Solly” Stephens, established at Wanda.

Tait wrote:

“For those who may not know, Wanda’s connection with Japanese lifesaving dates back to the 1980s when a group of Japanese lifesavers studied Bate Bay lifesaving techniques, I remembered a few of the old Wanda members not too keen to have this Japanese contingent visit. 

Thankfully a bond was formed in 1990 when Kentaro Yamashita arrived to stay at the club, leading to a lasting friendship with Yugawara LSC, their adoption of our club cap and leading to many of their members gaining their bronze and patrolling at Wanda. Over the years, many Wanda members patrolled in Japan during their summers.”

In December we had a couple of Japanese families visit Solly to relive those wonderful memories. This weekend, Kentaro Yamahsita has returned to Wanda to visit Solly. Let’s make Kentaro feel very welcome.

Wanda is extremely proud of the legacy created by Solly. It is a rich part of our history and one that should be celebrated.

If you see Solly around the club, say hi and sit down with him for a chat. He has so many stories to tell about Wanda, lifesaving and the Japanese program.

A few pics that reflect some of those wonderful times are found here >>