Image: West Beach Surf Life Saving – Air Patrol
Nestled along the shimmering coastline of Adelaide, the West Beach Surf Life Saving Club’s $8-10 million dollar redevelopment is close to its final stages.
The new state-of-the-art facility is on track to be completed by January 2024, with full operation expected to be around February.
The ambitious project, which has garnered substantial support from federal, state, and local governments, as well as Surf Life Saving SA, aims to not only modernise but also expand the club’s capabilities.
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. There will also be more storage areas, change rooms, a gym, and a café.
The project was necessitated when the original building 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 chair of the building committee, John, shared insights into the progress and vision behind this significant initiative.
“The build is progressing well, and Partek has been a fantastic partner. There’s also been a great collaboration between the local government and council. You can see the evidence in the photo.”
Despite the substantial funding received, there remains a need for additional financial support to reach the project’s goals.
John elaborated on this, saying, “We’ve been given grants, but in addition, we need more funding and will launch a fundraising drive in the next few weeks. It will become more serious in the new year, involving businesses, community groups, and individuals who feel motivated to support the club.”
Reflecting on the journey so far, John shared, “the build has been around 12-14 months, and the actual project has been in progress for close to three years, from when the concept first originated.” This endeavour has involved multiple parties, including Henley Beach Live Saving, which provided access to the beach and storage for inflatable boats.
“It’s a good example of multiple parties contributing to something significant in the community,” John continued. “There are a lot of passionate volunteers in the community driving this agenda. I think the whole community will be proud when we open up, and it’s a great space for the community and surf life saving in South Australia.”
For more information or to donate to the West Beach Surf Life Saving Club, head here.
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