Torquay SLSC grateful for pre-season boost

L-R: Torquay SLSC junior Jake Griffiths, president Matt Carmichael, director of lifesaving Jono Griffiths and junior Amelie Griffiths with some of the club's gear. Photo: VINNIE VAN OORSCHOT

TORQUAY Surf Life Saving Club has received a timely financial boost as preparations begin for the coming summer season, with the club confirmed as one of 25 recipients across the Corangamite electorate for the federal government’s latest Volunteer Grant Round.

New Torquay SLSC lifesaving director Jono Griffiths said the $2,500 cash injection announced by Corangamite federal member Libby Coker would go towards first aid training and rescue equipment.

“We’re always in need of first aid and rescue equipment, so it’ll be a combination of new rescue boards and first aid equipment such as bandages and antiseptic wipes, which the club typically pays for.

“Because we can now spend that money elsewhere, we can now likely put it towards a new board.

“We’re a not-for-profit, so the only way we can really purchase things is through grants, donations and membership fees and we’re extremely grateful for the work Libby Coker has done to help us secure this grant.”

Ms Coker said the additional funding boost to Torquay SLSC would provide greater support for local volunteers and the work they do within the community.

L-R: Torquay SLSC juniors Jake Griffiths and Amelie Griffiths with director of lifesaving Jono Griffiths and president Matt Carmichael with some of the club’s gear. Photo: VINNIE VAN OORSCHOT

“Our surf lifesaving clubs play a vital role in community-building that is the equal of the roles played by our footy and netball clubs. I will do everything I can to support their amazing contribution and their work to keep our beaches safe.

“A strong volunteering sector is a reflection of our combined efforts to foster community connections, promote change, and enrich our society.

“At the end of the day, we want volunteers to know that we are backing them and will continue to support their work in assisting our community.”

New Torquay SLSC president Matt Carmichael said membership is again expected to be strong for the 2024/25 season.

“We had about 1,470 members last season, which is quite large, mainly due to the Nippers program.

“We’re getting a lot of families moving to the club out of Geelong’s and Armstrong Creek’s growth.

“The great thing about the club is that it is a super welcoming place and with funding from grants like this, we can better support our members to better patrol our beaches.”

Anyone eager to join up at Torquay SLSC for the 2024/25 patrol season can do so by reaching out at [email protected]