Vale John Baker AM ESM

The family and Surf Life Saving Australia warmly invite you to celebrate the life of John Baker AM ESM:

Thursday 28 August, 1:00 pm ACST (in Adelaide) (11.30 am AWST in Perth)

Adelaide Oval, William Magarey Room

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Surf Life Saving Foundation or Virtual War Memorial Australia.

The service will be available to view via livestream for those unable to attend: sls.com.au/johnbaker-inmemoriam/

Vale John Baker AM ESM

The Surf Life Saving community is today mourning the sudden passing of Surf Life Saving Australia President John Baker AM ESM.

John, ‘JB’ was the seventh President since SLSA was established in 1907, serving in the role since 2021 after spending 14 years on the national board.

Surf Life Saving Australia CEO, Adam Weir, said John’s passion for Surf Life Saving was felt at all levels of the organisation and his loss will be felt by many.

“Today is terrible for our Surf Life Saving community, losing one of our most dedicated volunteers and leaders.

Beyond the accolades and awards, John was a beloved member of our Surf Life Saving community and will be missed. Our thoughts are with his wife Jo and his family and friends at this time,” he said.

Surf Life Saving SA President and National Director, Sarah Cutbush, said that the South Australian Surf Life Saving community had been devastated by the news.

“This is such a loss for our movement - of a leader, and of a friend.

“Our condolences go out to Jo and his family and friends, as well as Brighton SLSC - we will join you in keeping JB’s memory and legacy alive.”

For more about his life and contribution to Surf Life Saving: sls.com.au/vale-john-baker-am-esm/