Surf Life Saving Clubs up and down the NSW coastline are encouraged to take advantage of the latest round of the Surf Club Facility Program after it was extended for a further four years.
A total of $16 million will be available to clubs during this time, with the program extended to ensure volunteer lifesavers can continue to provide a world class service – the funding can be used to build, restore or upgrade existing facilities.
Last year $3.5 million was shared among 29 surf clubs, including the $302,400 to Redhead SLSC for upgrades to its observation area, radio room and first aid room.
Elouera SLSC also received $302,500 and Thirroul SLSC was the recipient of $285,000 for critical infrastructure or upgrades.
Surf Life Saving NSW President, George Shales OAM said the program plays an important part in creating safe, accessible and secure rescue facilities.
“Last year our volunteer surf lifesavers performed over 3,000 rescues, 143,000 preventative actions and 7,000 first aid treatments,” he said.
“The Surf Club Facility Program will improve the ongoing important community service our lifesavers deliver.”
The multi-million dollar commitment was confirmed last week by Minister for Sport, Natalie Ward, who was thrilled to throw further support behind the Surf Life Saving movement.
“We have 129 Surf Life Saving Clubs here in NSW which are the hub of our coastal communities,” she said.
“This support will allow significant upgrades, so the 75,000 club members across the state who do such important work volunteering at our beaches can focus on saving lives.”
Applications for this round of grants close on 21 January 2022. Up to $500,000 is available for each project.
Thursday 2 December 2021