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The Nock sisters are always focused on saving lives - whether they are in classes at UWA or spending time at their local beach.

Gloria and Jacqueline are Master of Nursing Science students who, in their spare time, are volunteer Surf Life Savers. They are part of a four-woman all-UWA team which won Gold, Silver and Bronze at the recent State Surf Life Saving Championships at Scarborough Beach.

The other team members are Leah Elliott who is studying town planning and Sally Ledger, studying marine biology.

"Nursing certainly does go hand-in-hand with lifesaving," said Gloria, who is in her final year of study and has been part of the Scarborough SLS club for five years. Her younger sister is in first year of nursing and joined her at the surf club two years ago.

The sisters say they are inspired by their mother, who is a mental health nurse. "Mum studied with Dr Helene Metcalfe, who is our clinical co-ordinator," Gloria said.

The young women train up to 11 sessions a week in and out of the surf boat, as well as doing beach patrols about once a month.  You must do your patrol hours to be eligible to compete for the club.

"The State Championships was an excellent experience for us in the lead up to the Australian Titles," Gloria said. "It was good to be on home ground where the conditions were perfect for us. It was a great weekend."

The team won gold in the under-23 women's surf boat race and bronze in the open women's event. They joined the fastest men in the club in the boat relay and brought home the silver medal.

Gloria, Jacqueline, Leah and Sally are now ranked as the best team in WA in the surf boat division. They are looking forward to the Australian Titles also held in Scarborough.  Get details of how they went