West Beach Surf Life Saving Club has officially opened the doors to its new $8.5 million clubhouse.
Completed in late December with the help of Partek Constructions and Interiors, the new two-storey building boasts a new first-aid room with ambulance access, new patrol control room, gym, training and conference room, change rooms, and greater storage space to house lifesaving equipment. Accessibility to the clubhouse has also been improved with the installation of ramps and an elevator.
The club also now houses a new expanded upstairs bar and bistro with a wrap-around balcony and stunning views of the ocean.
The new redevelopment replaces the previous outdated clubhouse that were more than 50 years old.
West Beach SLSC president Graeme Cunningham said the new facilities have helped to draw in new club members, particular junior membership.
“We were proud to retain our high membership numbers throughout the redevelopment, with West Beach SLSC now having over 700 members and 218 active patrolling members – one of the largest membership bases of any surf lifesaving club in South Australia,” he said.
“So, as West Beach remains a key place of gathering along Adelaide’s metro coast, it is essential we have the best possible facilities and resources to support our volunteer lifesavers in protecting lives and providing a memorable experience for beachgoers.”
The rebuild was jointly funded by the all three levels of government, Surf Life Saving SA, and West Beach SLSC.
The South Australian government declared it as the biggest club investment of its kind in the state’s history.
“The West Beach SLSC plays a critical and exemplary role in the community – empowering locals and visitors to safely enjoy this beautiful beach, bringing community together and keeping them active, developing young people and growing their understanding of the importance of volunteering and serving others,” Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing Katrine Hildyard said.
“I congratulate everyone involved in this outstanding endeavour and thank them for their tireless work towards its fruition. I look forward to seeing the community and club thrive for many years to come.”
Since the completion of the clubhouse, West Beach SLSC has hosted a number of events including the iconic VACSWIM school holiday program, and the annual Blue and Pink Swim/Walk/Run, which raised over $130,000 towards Breast and Prostate cancer research and care.
City of Charles Sturt Mayor Angela Evans added the redeveloped West Beach Surf Life Saving Club is an additional asset to the local area that will be a drawcard for both residents and visitors.
“The West Beach Surf Life Saving Club has always been a place where our community can come together. We are fortunate to have such passionate volunteers in our community who will now have improved facilities available to coordinate programs and supervise beachgoers of all ages,” she said.
“We are proud at the City of Charles Sturt to support this redevelopment and officially open the upgraded facility to our community.”