Lonny working to replace “dysfunctional” life-saving space

POINT Lonsdale Surf Life Saving Club members are hoping to get final ticks of approval to rebuild its new beach base on Point Lonsdale Back Beach.

The proposed structure would replace an outdated permanent structure in the sand dunes and help the club provide additional lifesaving services to meet future demand.

The current back beach base was recently assessed by engineering experts as having “concrete cancer” due its exposure to extreme weather.

Point Lonsdale SLSC say the only viable solution is to demolish and rebuild the structure.

The Victorian Government earmarked $2.5 million in its 2021/22 Budget to provide an upgraded back beach base for the club’s 1,000 volunteer members.

The club hope to have the building plan approved by government and local authorities in the first half of 2024, before going out to tender later in the year.

The proposed facility would include an observation room, first aid room, emergency response motor rooms and equipment storage space, patrol support rooms, improved pedestrian safety and public toilets.

It also considers factors such as predicted sea-level rise, native vegetation management and Indigenous heritage.

Point Lonsdale SLSC building committee member Matthew Ponsford said having a new structure “will have the ability to support beach activities throughout the entire year and extend its value to the wider community.”

“The building we have is currently dysfunctional and is not fit for purpose for this current day and age,” he said.

“Occupational health and safety weren’t such an issue in the 1980’s when it was built, whereas now, modern day lifesaving is all about safety and protecting workers both paid and unpaid.

“You literally have to club over things to get equipment, and the space itself is full of concrete cancer.

“The engagement on the plans thus far have been terrific, and we look forward to consulting with more groups and the government to get this approved.”

For more, head to www.plslsc.com.au/new-back-beach-base