Hunter Surf Life Saving (HSLS) clubs are in the money after catching a financial “break” with the NSW Government.
More than $250,000 will be allocated to four organisations within the branch to assist with upgrades, restoration or construction of facilities to keep them up-to-date and accessible to the community.
Newcastle Surf Life Saving Club secured $85,734 to modernise its gear storage with rescue and nipper boards, IRB racking system, patrol cabinet and new epoxy floor.
“The transformation of the shed will improve safety, equipment longevity and operational efficiency,” Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp said.
“The initiative aids club members, volunteers and the public by ensuring faster emergency responses and better lifesaving services.
“Newcastle’s volunteers proved once again this summer that they are the unsung heroes of our community, safeguarding locals and visitors in the water.
“This grant will contribute towards the development of a fit-for-purpose facility that enables local surf lifesavers to better protect people and continue to deliver a world-class service.”
Further south, Swansea Belmont, Catherine Hill Bay and Caves Beach were the beneficiaries of the 2024/25 Surf Club Facility Program, too.
The funding, more than $160,000 in total, is an important step toward strengthening the safety and resilience of local beaches while making sure lifesavers have the tools they need to continue their work.
Swansea Belmont Surf Life Saving Club snared $81,294 to upgrade the function area, as well as instal a solar power system to reduce environmental impact.
Catherine Hill Bay Surf Life Saving Club will utilise $54,376 to improve storage facilities, allowing for quicker response times and increased efficiency in emergency situations.
Caves Beach Surf Life Saving Club pocketed $32,663 to install the organisation’s first solar system, helping reduce its carbon footprint.
“We are pleased to see the NSW Government directly support the vital contribution made by our volunteer lifesavers and surf clubs in NSW,” Surf Life Saving NSW president Peter Agnew said.
“Our growing membership of over 80,000 lifesavers and nippers deserve safe, secure and accessible facilities.
“This (Surf Club Facility) program allows those members, who do such important work volunteering at our beaches, to focus on saving lives.”
For more community stories:
- ‘Amazing’ response as Sleapy’s Gala Ball raises $121,000
- Local ‘stars’ shine brightly to raise $20,000 for Hunter Melanoma Foundation
- Local radio icon Mike Kennedy marks 45 years on air
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