Elouera SLSC and Broulee Surfers SLSC are the latest clubs to be assisted by the Surf Club Facility Program, with the latter opening their new clubhouse at the weekend, ushering in a new era for the Far South Coast club as members, volunteers and the local community will now be able to access a state-of-the-art facility.
Sitting Club President, Garry Pettigrove joined local MPs, Surf Life Saving NSW representatives, Steve Pearce and Joel Wiseman, and a host of club and community members for the official unveiling on Sunday 5 December.
The dreary weather was not enough to put a dampener on the day as the public shared memories from the past and spoke of their excitement to create new ones.
Far South Coast Branch President, Tony Rettke was most impressed by the design, which he felt ensured the new club didn’t lose touch with its roots.
“It’s been a bit of a long-term project across three club presidents and committees, but you couldn’t have wished for a better outcome,” he said.
“They’ve done a great job with the layout. It has the feel of the old building in its shape, but it’s more practical, workable, a bit larger.
“You get the sense the bones of the old club are there, which is a nice touch.”
Tony Rettke also paid tribute to those who were instrumental in the delivery of the clubhouse, reserving the most praise for outgoing Member for Bega, Andrew Constance.
“I’d really like to give a big wrap to him,” Tony said.
“He’s our Branch patron, and an extremely active patron at that, he’s a good friend and the work he has done for us in his 18-and-a-half years has been outstanding.
“He has attended nearly every function we’ve held, he always helps out where he can, he shows up at AGMs and presentation evenings – it’s a tough job, he’s got, but we’re very grateful.”
Broulee Surfers SLSC enlisted a local construction company, P&L Louttit Total Construction Services, for the build.
Meanwhile, further evidence of the State Government’s Surf Club Facility Program at work manifested in Elouera, with a significant upgrade of the clubhouse resulting in more more change room space for female members and improved accessibility for Nippers with special needs.
The official unveiling was attended by MPs Mark Speakman and Eleni Petinos, Sutherland Mayor Steve Simpson, Club President David Kowald and Surf Life Saving NSW CEO, Steve Pearce.
Wednesday 8 December 2021