Surf life saving club set for massive upgrades

Port Bouvard originally built its club rooms with the plan for a two-storey building, but funding fell short and the building was designed with the option to add a storey on when funding became available.

Now, thanks in part to $300,000 from the state government’s Regional Grants Scheme, construction on the second storey will begin in December.

Speaking at a funding announcement at the club on Tuesday morning, Member for Dawesville Kim Hames paid tribute to the late Member for Canning Don Randall and Port Bouvard SLSC stalwart Ric Roberts for their work towards the facility.

“When we started building the club Ric wanted a proper club and both he and Don put a lot of hard work into making this happen,” he said.

“I am also proud of Federal Member for Canning Andrew Hastie, who has worked hard to secure $1 million from the community development grants program for this important project.”

Port Bouvard Surf Life Saving Club president John Hodges said the upgrades would be a significant boost for the club.

“There will be state of the art training facilities and it will allow us to offer more to the community as a club,” he said.

Minister for Regional Development Terry Redman said the upgrades would allow the club to produce higher quality life savers in both competition and beach safety formats.

“This club has so many kids participating in nippers programs and these facility upgrades will give them better training as they grow into lifesavers in the community,” he said.

“It’s vital to support clubs like this that make such a difference to the community.”

The $300,000 grant is part of $10 million investment over 2016/17 made possible by the state government’s Royalties for Regions program.

Dr Hames said the Regional Grants Scheme assists in attracting investment, increasing job opportunities and improving the quality of life in the regions.

“This funding will support dedicated community organisations in making the Peel region a better place to live and will contribute towards the long term sustainability and vibrancy of the region,” Dr Hames said.

Peel Development Commission chairman Paul Fitzpatrick has welcomed the commitment to the project, saying it will benefit the wider community.

“The Regional Grant Scheme funds will have multiple benefits for this club and the wider community,” he said.

“It will increase surf life saving members and the number of patrolling liifesavers on our beaches.

“By providing lifesaving and rescue services that enhance safety and recreation in the area, we will continue to attract visitors and ensure the safety of our locals.”