The beloved West Beach Surf Life Saving Club has closed its doors in preparation for a massive development set to commence this August.
The current clubhouse, first built in 1963, will be demolished to make way for the new structure that will seek to serve the local community for many years to come.
Commercial Director Norm Collins advised that the original building had sustained a significant “battering” after years of storms and wild weather. While up to code in the 1960s, the building also needed to be brought up to modern standards.
The project was given the go-ahead in May 2021 when the club secured $5.9 million in funding from federal, state, and local government, as well as Surf Life Saving SA.
West Beach will be the final club to be upgraded in the Charles Sturt area as part of the Plexus Program, an initiative commissioned by Surf Life Saving Australia to redevelop all the Surf Life Saving clubs in South Australia.
The new facility is set to include a new function room, wrap-around balcony, and bar & kitchen facilities on the ground level, with new boat and equipment storage below deck.
Mr Collins says the new facility will retain its “shacky feel” and hopefully take approximately 12-13 months to complete.
During development, the West Beach Surf Live Saving Club will be operating out of the nearby Beachside Restaurant. This will not negatively impact the restaurant’s operations, as hours will be extended, serving up its usual breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
In other words, the same people you know and love won’t be losing their jobs! You can go see them and support the club at their new temporary venue.
While the surf club still hopes to re-open for the 2023 summer season, Partnerships & Compliance Director Christine Newberry has advised that the costs of the development are projected to be 30% higher than originally anticipated.
“On Thursday we’re launching a fundraising campaign called “Building for the Community”, because that’s what we’re doing,” says Christine.
“We’re trying to provide members with what they want and need, which we would’ve been able to do with ease had the project not been impacted by covid.”
With supply chain challenges and an increase in material costs, the project will need an additional $2 million. To find out more about the development and how to donate, click here.
The West Beach Surf Life Saving Club is located at the corner of Seaview & West Beach Roads, West Beach 5024.
Follow West Beach Surf Life Saving Club on Facebook and Instagram for updates.
Beachside Restaurant is located at 5 West Beach Rd, West Beach SA 5045.
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