Sunshine Beach Surf Life Saving Club Inc has secured $2.5 million in Federal Government funding for its Club Redevelopment Project.
Sunshine Beach SLSC was successful in round three of the $641.6 million Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF) Infrastructure Projects Stream.
The BBRF supports the Federal Government’s commitment to create jobs, drive economic growth and build stronger regional communities.
Now, Sunshine Beach SLSC’s aged clubhouse dating back to 1983 will be demolished, paving the way Evans Built to begin works on a majestic, new clubhouse (see artist’s impression) due to open in November.
The new clubhouse will feature a large-capacity multi-purpose function meeting room, which can be used at no cost for local charities, not-for-profit organisations.
Sunshine Beach SLSC Deputy President Craig Law said the club was ecstatic to have successfully applied for the BBRF grant.
“This new Sunshine Beach SLSC clubhouse has been eight years in the making,” Craig said.
“To say that this news was met with great delight and relief is an understatement, as this funding will certainly minimise the financial impost the club has undertaken to bring this project to life.
“It’s a momentous occasion – to get financial support is huge.”
The club has paid tribute to Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien, who it said was “instrumental in the club receiving this grant”.
Craig called on the community to be patient and understanding while the new clubhouse is being built.
“It’s short-term pain for long-term gain,” he said, “and will be well worth it.”
A makeshift premises has been set up in the interim and Sunshine Beach SLSC beach patrols will continue uninterrupted.
RDA Sunshine Coast CEO Paul Fisher congratulated all involved in securing the grant.
“This $2.5 million BBRF grant is a great coup for an amazing local surf club which provides vital lifesaving services,” Paul said.
“We can’t wait to see what the new clubhouse is like, and take advantage of its many great facilities, which will be a significant tourism boost to the region.”
Llew O’Brien MP