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Waratah Beach Surf Lifesaving Club to receive $580,000 upgrade funding from Nationals as election commitment

The Waratah Beach Surf Lifesaving Club will be given much needed funds to replace its rusted roof and renovate its toilets, change room and kitchen facilities if The Nationals form government this month.

By news@gippsland - 21st November 2022 - Back to News

The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O'Brien said he was delighted to announce a commitment of $580,000 to fund the much-needed works. Mr O'Brien said he had visited the clubrooms earlier this year to meet with Waratah Beach SLC President Richard Tremewen, Captain Keegan Clarke and Director Chris Cope to discuss the importance of the project.

The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O'Brien during a visit earlier this year to Waratah Beach SLSC with (from left) Waratah Beach SLSC Captain Keegan Clarke, Club President Richard Tremewen and Director Chris Cope

Improving the facility

Mr O'Brien said, "The Waratah Beach SLSC and patrolled beach are fundamental to Sandy Point being the much-loved regional tourism destination that it is. With over 600 current members and an aim to increase that to around 900, it is clear that the Waratah Beach SLSC is a huge asset to Sandy Point, Waratah Bay and its surrounding communities."

"Which is why it is so crucial to ensure that the clubrooms receive the refurbishments they need to ensure the safety and comfort of all users. The clubrooms are in dire need of work, most notably to replace the roof which has rusted and is allowing water into the building. There is also a clear need for new toilets and changerooms to improve the functionality of the rooms for patrol and club members." Mr O'Brien said.

Obtaining much needed funds

Mr O'Brien said he had written a letter of support for previous grants and hoped that the club would have been successful in obtaining much needed funds from the state government in previous years.

"I am aware that the club has made a number of attempts to secure funding from the Andrews Labor government over the past couple of years and it's disappointing that all efforts have proven unsuccessful despite the clear demonstrated need. It is evident that only The Nationals in government are willing to acknowledge that and ensure its volunteers have safe, modern facilities." Mr O'Brien concluded.

Pictures from Danny O'Brien MP website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com