Anglesea SLSC clubhouse officially opens

THE results of more than a decade’s worth of effort were celebrated on Saturday as the Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club (ASLSC) officially opened its new clubhouse.

The $5.5 million works have created more accessible and appropriate first aid facilities and easier ambulance access, separation of the training and operational areas, administrative offices and member/visitor areas, training facilities on the upper level to cater for existing and future lifesaving training requirements as well as community use.

The commercial kitchen has also been upgraded to serve both the cafe/restaurant in the existing Ray Marsh Room and events in the new building, and a kiosk has been added on the lower level.

The redevelopment was supported by $1.5 million from the federal government, $1.5 million from the state government, $250,000 from the Surf Coast Shire, and more than $2.3 million raised by the club, which took occupancy of its new home in mid-November.

Guests at the opening included Victorian Senator Sarah Henderson, Corangamite federal member Libby Coker, state Minister for Police and Emergency Services Lisa Neville, Polwarth MP Richard Riordan, Surf Coast Shire mayor Libby Stapleton, ASLSC president Tom Cullen and the clubhouse’s architect Michael Carr.

“This a great day for the Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club,” Senator Henderson told the 100-strong crowd of dignitaries and guests gathered in the club’s John Worrell Room.

“We recognise how important surf life saving clubs are … they are the heart and soul of our community,” she said.

“This is an incredible building… and I know it is going to stand you in good stead for years to come.”

Despite the impact of COVID-19 on Victoria, ASLSC has managed to drive a 16 per cent increase in its membership since this time last year with total members now exceeding 1,500.

Ms Neville recognised the contribution the ASLSC made to the local community.

“You work hard every summer to keep the community safe,” she said. “This only comes about thanks to the commitment of members.”

Outgoing Life Saving Victoria chief executive Nigel Taylor congratulated the ASLSC on completion of the redevelopment, and Surf Life Saving Australia president Graeme Ford said surf life saving clubs were a key part of the community.

“This is a community club, the people’s club, and we realise the value of community in our clubs,” Mr Ford said.