The West Beach Surf Life Saving Club, one of South Australia’s cornerstone surf lifesaving institutions, celebrated the completion of its $8.5 million redevelopment. This significant investment marks the largest of its kind in the history of South Australian surf clubs.
The revamped facility, designed to support the valiant efforts of volunteers and enhance safety for beachgoers, replaces the club’s previous infrastructure, which was over 50 years old. The project, initiated in late 2022, received funding from a collaboration involving the State Government, the Federal Government, the City of Charles Sturt, Surf Life Saving SA, and the club itself.
The new two-story building boasts state-of-the-art amenities aimed at bolstering the capabilities of current volunteers and recruiting new members. Notable upgrades include a strategically relocated first aid room, a new beach access ramp for faster emergency responses, and improved ambulance access. The club also features a new patrol control room to enhance beach safety, increased storage for lifesaving equipment and boats, as well as a modern gym, change rooms, and a conference room.
Adding to its community appeal, the club now houses an upstairs restaurant, bar, and balcony, offering stunning views and a place for relaxation and social gatherings.
West Beach SLSC is one of the state’s largest, with over 700 members, including 218 active patrolling volunteers. Last summer alone, the club’s teams logged 3,400 patrol hours, handling numerous rescues and medical emergencies effectively.
The club also plays a vital role in community engagement, hosting popular events such as the VACSWIM school holiday program and the annual Blue and Pink Swim/Walk/Run, which recently raised over $130,000 for cancer research.
“State Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing Katrine Hildyard says “It is excellent to see West Beach Surf Life Saving Club reinvigorated and rejuvenated following an incredible partnership between Federal, State and Local Governments and the broader surf lifesaving community.”
“This Club holds such a special place in my heart. From the very first moment I could, I joined my siblings there as a Nipper, undertook much of my junior lifesaving there and, together with my sisters, brother and Mum, experienced that sense of belonging to a community family that the surf lifesaving movement creates.”
“The West Beach SLSC plays a critical and exemplary role in the community – empowering locals and visitors to safely enjoy this beautiful beach, bringing community together and keeping them active, developing young people and growing their understanding of the importance of volunteering and serving others.”
“I congratulate everyone involved in this outstanding endeavour and thank them for their tireless work towards its fruition. I look forward to seeing the community and club thrive for many years to come.”
State Minister for Emergency Services Dan Cregan said “Our volunteer surf lifesavers deserve fit-for-purpose facilities to perform their duties and keep South Australian beaches safe.”
“The State Government is proud to be part of a historic redevelopment that supports members who dedicate their time and energy to serving their community.”
“It will help clubs like West Beach grow and attract the next generation of lifesavers while drawing in more visitors to the popular and picturesque coast.”
Federal Member for Hindmarsh Mark Butler “I promised West Beach residents that an Albanese Labor Government would deliver the funds to redevelop the club and I’m thrilled we were able to deliver on that promise.”
“I want to see West Beach thrive and this club is at the heart of the local community.”
“This investment has ensured West Beach SLSC now has a state of the art, 100 per cent accessible and inclusive, community space.”
Surf Life Saving SA President, Sarah Cutbush, said “It’s been rewarding to see West Beach SLSC thrive in their new home this season and reap the rewards not just in lifesaving, but also surf sports, community programs, hospitality and more.”
“The membership retention and increase in visitors since the redevelopment shows the important role that surf clubs can play in their communities – as well as saving lives and promoting water safety, surf clubs provide safe, accessible, and family- friendly hubs for locals and tourists alike.”
“Surf Life Saving SA and West Beach SLSC thank all funding partners, including the Federal Government, State Government and City of Charles Sturt, for their support and collaboration in this project.”
“There is much to be proud of in what we have collectively achieved, and it has been a critical step in our mission to build healthy, sustainable communities while working towards zero preventable deaths in South Australian waters.”
West Beach SLSC President, Graeme Cunningham, said “As West Beach remains a key place of gathering along Adelaide’s metro coast, it is essential we have the best possible facilities and resources to support our volunteer lifesavers in protecting lives and providing a memorable experience for beachgoers.”
“Investing in future surf lifesavers and leaders is particularly important for our crew, with our efforts to provide a highly inclusive program being recognised in our selection as a 2023-24 SLSSA Junior Club of the Year finalist.”
“This state-of-the-art facility will provide a crucial foundation for us to continue developing youth for many generations to come.”
City of Charles Sturt Mayor Angela Evans said “The redeveloped West Beach Surf Life Saving Club is an amazing asset which will help residents and visitors alike enjoy our beautiful coastline.”
“The West Beach Surf Life Saving Club has always been a place where our community can come together. We are fortunate to have such passionate volunteers in our community who will now have improved facilities available to coordinate programs and supervise beachgoers of all ages.”
“We are proud at the City of Charles Sturt to support this redevelopment and officially open the upgraded facility to our community.”
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