Point Lonsdale SLSC facility secured for summer

A TEMPORARY facility that will allow Point Lonsdale Surf Life Saving Club members to safely patrol the beach this summer will be operational by November.

Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville announced funding for the temporary back-beach base on Tuesday, which will replace the existing lifesaving club outpost building that deteriorated and is no longer suitable for lifesavers to use.

Ms Neville said the $175,000 funding would ensure the new club meets all facility, resource and operational requirements for the coming 2019-20 season.

“Point Lonsdale back beach is great for people of all ages, but it’s a beach that needs lifeguards during summer to ensure the community can use it safely,” Ms Neville said.

“The new temporary back-beach base will be operational by November, so people can enjoy this fantastic part of the Bellarine safely over the summer season.

“Life Saving Victoria staff and volunteers work tirelessly all year round to serve the community and this funding will ensure they can continue to deliver these critical services.”

Point Lonsdale back beach is one of the most dangerous beaches in Victoria and it’s critical that the Point Lonsdale Surf Life Saving Club and its members can safely patrol the beach during the popular summer months.

The state government will continue to work towards building a permanent lifesaving structure on the site.

The latest funding builds on the Victorian Budget 2019/20, which delivered a $17 million funding boost for CFA and Life Saving Victoria facilities to ensure volunteers and staff can continue to protect lives and property – both on land and in the water.

The government has also provided $2.2 million for a new Point Lonsdale Life Saving Club front beach facility.

Planning is underway for the new clubhouse, which will support the club’s growing membership, provide increased training and education programs, and opportunities for other community groups to use the new space.