The Elliott Heads Surf Life Saving Club, seventeen kilometres south-east of Bundaberg, has existed since 1965, when an enthusiastic band of volunteers first developed the beach between the two rock groynes, just to the north of the Elliott river mouth. As a result of the river being relatively short, with a small catchment area, the surfing beach is blessed with clean water and fine sand, making an ideal beach for children to play safely. Offshore the water is relatively shallow, with few hazards to trouble the unwary swimmer.
The clubhouse, now in its fourth period of building and extension, nestles between the dunes overlooking the beach, and the caravan park and its associated parkland, providing a comfortable, sheltered weekend home for the members. The club has become well-known as a family club, with several generations of some families filling different roles in the club, ranging from nippers to patrolling members and life members.
Over the years, Elliott Heads SLSC has enjoyed great success in surf competitions, with national and state champions, at various times, in boat rowing, IRB competitions, beach and water events, as well as champion lifesaver and patrol competitions. In spite of this success, the main focus of the club has been keeping the beach safe for the public and the junior members of the club. The nipper section of the club has been traditionally strong, with an emphasis on the nippers enjoying their beach experience in a safe environment, as well as learning some water and personal skills.
The beach is patrolled by club volunteers on weekends and public holidays from mid-September to May, with full time lifeguards patrolling during school holidays.