Bondi Rescue Feature

Bruce “Hoppo” Hopkins Q&A.

How did you get your start in the industry?

Some of the local guys who were working as Lifeguards on Bondi suggested I try out. The rest is history.

Best part of what you do?

I get to spend each day at the beach, meet all types of people and save lives. Can’t complain.

And the worst part?

Most people don’t realise we do quite a few body retrievals from suicides around the beaches. It’s not something you ever get used to.

Any interesting experiences you can share?

Meeting “The Hoff” when he came to the lifeguard tower was a major highlight of mine. The original TV lifeguard!

Favourite album of all time and why?

U2 is my all-time favourite band and their album Joshua Tree has to be the best.

Best live performance that you’ve ever seen?

I saw Roxette when I was in Sweden three years ago and it was unreal. It’s amazing going to a concert in another country.

Favourite bars/clubs/pubs to hang out in?

The Bucket List and Beach Rd Hotel in Bondi are my local favourites.

Take us through a typical day in the life of Hoppo.

I’m up early in the morning for training, followed by a coffee. Then I head to work where no two days are the same. As head lifeguard, I spend part of my day in the office doing paperwork. The other part of the day is spent on the beach with the rest of the guys, doing rescues and keeping everyone safe.

Any news or final comments?

Always swim between the flags, whether at Bondi or elsewhere. If you think you’re in trouble, float and stay calm.

Season 9 of Bondi Rescue airs Mondays at 8pm on TEN.

Sydney Unleashed is one of Australia’s premier entertainment publications exploring the latest in lifestyle trends. From Sydney’s finest restaurants, cafes and bars to the hottest in gadgets, products, and home entertainment, Sydney Unleashed is your one-stop lifestyle platform.