Beloved Bondi Surf Club lifesaver dies at just 54
A close-knit Bondi Beach community is coming to terms with the unexpected death of Louise Santos, who was a devoted mother, a surf lifesaver, and an acclaimed athlete.
Santos tragically passed away during a family vacation in France at just 54 years old, leaving behind her husband, Stuart, and her young son, Josh, to grapple with the sudden loss.
The impact of this loss is also felt by the Bondi Surf Club, where she devoted over twenty years of her life as a longstanding employee and volunteer.
“The entire club stands in profound shock, grappling with the void left by Louise’s passing," Brent Jackson, President of the Bondi Surf Club said in a statement.
“She recently became our newest Life member," he added.
“Our deepest sympathies and support are extended to her beloved husband, Stuart, and her son, Josh, who is also an active Nipper.
“Our thoughts are with them as they navigate this unfathomable loss.”
Jackson also paid tribute to Santos' unwavering dedication to their club.
“For those who had the privilege of attending our last Annual General Meeting, you understand the pivotal role Louise quietly played within our club for decades," he shared.
“Her commitment knew no bounds, and she continued to champion our cause diligently, currently serving as the Registrar and meticulously planning the upcoming season for our surf sports team.
“Personally, I will deeply miss Louise’s straightforward, pragmatic approach and her resolute ‘can-do’ attitude that inspired us all.
“Louise’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication and the profound impact she had on our club’s journey,” he concluded.
Santos was a a gifted athlete winning over 40 medals in Australian Masters and World Masters Surf Life Saving competitions.
She also became the first female individual Australian gold medallist in the Ironwoman category for ages 35 to 39 in 2005.
In 2018 she secured a second-place finish in her age group at the Coolangatta Gold Long Course endurance event.
Santos had only just celebrated her 54th birthday ten days prior to the tragedy, although her cause of death remains undisclosed.
Former Director of Lifesaving at Bondi Surf Club Damon Somerfield, also paid tribute to Santos in a post shared on Facebook.
“As you go through life, there are people around you who inspire you the most, to make a difference, to become a better person. She was a friend, an incredible support to us as new parents, and one of the best clubmates you could ask for," he wrote.
“To become the first female life member of the oldest Surf Lifesaving Club was one of hers and our proudest moments as club mates.
“As we move forward and come to terms with this terrible news, we will celebrate all that you stood for, Louise, and for all you have done for those who loved you.”
In a heartwarming display on Wednesday morning, the Bondi Surf Club members held a gathering to lower the flag together and light a candle in her memory.
The board section also held a minute's silence on the beach to mark her passing before catching some waves together.
Image: Facebook