Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) operation is an example of a sport that does not appear to have considered female participants in designing ergonomically appropriate equipment. Anecdotal evidence suggested that this design gap was a key factor affecting surf lifesaving (SLS) women’s participation in IRB related activity.

This Research applied HCD and Co-design inspired methods to provide SLS women with a voice and the opportunity to assist in designing product/s that are more ergonomically appropriate for their use. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the physical and mental challenges women who operate IRBs face throughout their experience in SLS. It is hoped that the design solution will provide women with greater confidence to successfully operate and maintain IRBs.  The research also highlighted aspects of IRB operation that require further investigation, setting a precedent and foundation in IRB operating equipment to cater to and support all the SLS user community ergonomically. The desired outcome of this work was a greater consideration for the improvement of gender equity within IRB Operation (stereotypically a male-dominant SLS activity) and, consequently, SLS culture more generally.