ON POINT Both parties commit funds to Point Lonsdale SLSC clubhouse

MEMBERS and supporters at the Point Lonsdale Surf Life Saving Club will be able to finish their clubhouse renovations regardless of who wins the federal election, with the Labor and Liberal parties making matching election commitments this week.

The club has raised $4.8 million for the project – including $2 million of state government funding, $2.15 million of public contributions and $650,000 of federal government funding – but needs $5.4 million to fully complete the works, due to a shortfall in the costings.

The existing clubhouse has concrete cancer, a rusting roof, is too small, is not disability friendly and needs better facilities for boardriders.

On Monday night, Labor candidate for Corangamite Libby Coker announced a Shorten Labor Government would contribute the remaining $600,000 to finish the project.

This figure was matched by Corangamite federal member Sarah Henderson on Tuesday morning during an election debate broadcast at the studios of radio station 94.7 The Pulse.

Ms Coker said Point Lonsdale SLSC had spent the past 11 years planning and advocating for this project, and her announcement meant it would not have to wait for another yet.

“Labor’s commitment of $600,000 means this important project can finally go ahead.

“The club has done a phenomenal job advocating for and securing the funding to rebuild the clubhouse.”

Ms Henderson said her party’s $600,000 if reelected was on top of the $650,000 already delivered under the Building Better Regions Fund in March.

“I was proud to have fought for the Point Lonsdale Surf Life Saving Club, including ensuring the rules for the Building Better Regions Fund were amended to allow surf life saving clubs to be eligible.

“Today, I am so pleased to announce that the Morrison Liberal Government will provide a total of $1.25 million, allowing the shortfall to also be met.

“I congratulate the Point Lonsdale SLSC and the broader community for advocating for this investment.

“The volunteers at the Point Lonsdale SLSC do a tremendous job at keeping people safe on our beaches and in the water. Their work is invaluable.”