In 1960, Torquay beach was becoming crowded on summer days and many people were walking around the point to the back beach, or Fossil Beach, as it was then called.The tricky conditions that prevailed caused many swimmers to get into difficulties.
Jan Juc, the Aboriginal name for the iron bark tree and the creek that flows onto the beach was chosen. Now the area has a club to be proud of and a safer beach to enjoy over the summer period. The first Annual General Meeting was held on the 24th August, 1963. The first official patrol roster was organised on the 1st May, 1964. We have come a long way since its inception, but the spirit and the camaraderie of the club remain the same. With little Government assistance, our club has grown with the hard work of its members and supporters in working bees, fundraising and organising special events.Ongoing battles with public liability overheads, environmental opposition to our expansion, occupational health and safety issues and funding puts a strain on our membership. Luckily, they have enough conscientious people willing to give up their time and expertise to develop and maintain tomorrows surf lifesavers to continue patrolling Jan Juc Beach, one of Victoria's most dangerous beaches. Not only that, they provide a safe, healthy environment for young people to develop first aid, leadership and social skills while, at the same time, keeping traditions alive with our older members.