Lotterywest funding contributes to Margaret River Surf Life Saving Development Centre
Lotterywest funding of $867,182 will go towards construction of the Surf Life Saving WA Development Centre in Margaret River. The grant is part of Lotterywest's $159 million COVID-19 Relief Fund.
Once complete, the Surf Life Saving WA Development Centre will be able to accommodate approximately 100 people in lodge-style accommodation and provide facilities for training, equipment storage and administration.
The Development Centre will be a venue for Surf Life Saving and rescue volunteer training programs to up-skill members. There will also be 'nipper' development programs, youth development and leadership programs and camps.
The facility will be available to all Surf Life Saving clubs and other community organisations for club-based activities and camps.
It will also improve Surf Life Saving WA's capability to provide water safety and awareness programs, first aid courses and beach rescue services.
Western Australian Sport and Recreation Minister Tony Buti notes "Western Australians love their beaches - that's why the service of our surf life savers and the future of the surf life saving movement is so important.
"WA's beaches have been more popular than ever throughout the COVID-19 pandemic - but growth in beach usage brings with it an increase in potential dangers.
"This facility will help the State's surf life savers train and prepare for a range of scenarios to help keep beachgoers safe - now and into the future."
WA Volunteering Minister Reece Whitby added "volunteers are the backbone of the surf life saving movement - they give up their time to keep Western Australians safe and deserve the best facilities we can give them.
"The Surf Life Saving WA Development Centre will provide volunteers with opportunities for training and development and help connect the 23,000 members of the surf life saving community.
"The centre will form an important part of Surf Life Saving WA's youth engagement strategy, which encourages young people to join the movement through volunteering - ensuring the future looks bright."
Related Articles
Published since 1997 - Australasian Leisure Management Magazine is your go-to resource for sports, recreation, and tourism. Enjoy exclusive insights, expert analysis, and the latest trends.
Mailed to you six times a year, for an annual subscription from just $99.
Get business and operations news for $12 a month - plus headlines emailed twice a week. Covering aquatics, attractions, entertainment, events, fitness, parks, recreation, sport, tourism, and venues.