F.Y.I.

Surf Life Saving Australia releases first ‘Red & Yellow Day’ campaign with Five by Five Global

February 5, 2026 2:56

Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) has partnered with independent agency Five by Five Global to launch Red & Yellow Day, a new national day recognising the volunteers who keep Australian beaches safe.

The announcement:

Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) and independent creative agency Five by Five Global have launched the national campaign for Red & Yellow Day, a new annual day of celebration and fundraising to recognise the volunteers who help keep Australian beaches safe.

To launch the campaign, a new 90-second launch film, supported by 30” and 15” TVCs, has been developed by Five by Five Global and production partner, MIK, to help spread the word in the lead-up to the very first Red & Yellow Day on March 4. The creative showcases the many ways schools, workplaces, surf life saving clubs and individuals across the country can throw their support behind the day. From wearing the colours and flying the flags, to hosting fundraisers and getting their communities involved.

The ad also features Australian singer-songwriter Budjerah, alongside his specially re-recorded version of Jess Glynne’s ‘I’ll Be There’, bringing an uplifting energy to the campaign.

With coastal conditions changing quickly and more Australians heading to the water each summer, SLSA is encouraging everyone to remember one of the most important safety messages of all: always swim between the red and yellow flags. Recent drowning incidents have again highlighted the very real danger of swimming outside patrolled areas, a risk that can be reduced through community awareness, education, and practical support for lifesaving services.

With one month to go until the inaugural Red & Yellow Day, Surf Life Saving Australia are inviting businesses, schools, surf life saving clubs, communities, and members of the public to wear red or yellow, host a fundraiser, and proudly fly the flags, in support of the world’s largest volunteer movement.

The campaign, developed collaboratively with Five by Five Global and partner agencies, has helped create and bring to life the very first Red & Yellow Day, including the national brand identity, creative platform, engagement plan, and launch assets designed to mobilise the nation around one simple message: When you back the lifesavers, you can help save lives too.

SLSA’s partners, including DHL, Qantas, Isuzu, Westpac and Yo-Chi, along with some of Australia’s biggest brands and the Australian Government, are also throwing their support behind the day, helping to amplify the campaign nationally and encouraging Australians to get involved through their own communities, workplaces and customer networks. Events and activations are being planned around the country as the countdown to March 4 begins, with more information about national and local activity to be shared in the lead up to Red & Yellow Day.

Official Red & Yellow Day merchandise is now available via www.redandyellowday.org.au, as well as Red & Yellow Day Party Packs supported by DHL, making it easy for all Australians to get involved, whether it’s a morning tea, a dress-up day, a club event, or a workplace challenge.

Brett Morgan, senior brand, marketing and communications manager at Surf Life Saving Australia, said:

“Red & Yellow Day is Australia’s chance to stand united behind the incredible volunteers who patrol our beaches and save lives every season. It’s a powerful reminder that swimming between the red and yellow flags is the smartest, safest choice—and a meaningful way for schools, workplaces, and communities nationwide to say a heartfelt thank you while supporting the vital work of Surf Life Saving.”

Mark Anderson, managing director of Five by Five in Australia, said:

“Red & Yellow Day is designed to be more than a moment, it’s a national movement built on gratitude, community and action. We’re proud to partner with Surf Life Saving Australia and the wider group of agency collaborators to launch the very first Red & Yellow Day, and we’re calling on the creative and advertising industry to throw their support behind our friends in the red and yellow.”

To get involved, access fundraising kits, or donate, visit redandyellowday.org.au