Pictured above: Artist Impression Arcadia Surf Lifesaving Clubhouse.
The important work of volunteer lifesavers at one of Magnetic Island’s most popular swimming spots will be further supported with an Australian Government grant.
Federal Member for Herbert Phillip Thompson announced $160,000 of funding through the Building Better Regions Fund would go towards the renovation and extension of the Alma Bay Clubhouse, which is used by patrolling members of the Arcadian Surf Life Saving Club.
Mr Thompson said the project was a very worthy recipient of the funding, given the 58% increase in membership of the club over the past five years.
“We all know how vital the work of our volunteer surf lifesavers is, keeping locals and visitors safe while they enjoy our amazing beaches, but also promoting community service and an active, fit and healthy lifestyle,” he said.
“But unfortunately the Alma Bay Clubhouse just hasn’t been meeting their needs for a very long time, with not enough space for their all-important training activities and parts of the building being rundown and in need of urgent maintenance.
“This renovation and extension will create new fit-for-purpose training spaces and dormitories, as well as provide the opportunity for school and community groups to use the building.”
The project will also see a new 5-metre-wide timber deck constructed at the front of the clubhouse with the first aid room moved to one end to provide better access for both lifesavers and lifeguards.
President Kylee de Rooy said the club was excited and grateful to receive the grant, given it would finally allow a project that had been in the pipeline for a number of years to get off the ground.
“This grant gives us the opportunity to create a fit-for-purpose training facility to be utilized by our growing membership base as well as providing a venue for Island community groups,” Ms de Rooy said.
“We’d like to thank the federal government and in particular Member for Herbert, Phillip Thompson, for his continued support of our club and this project.”
This latest round of the Building Better Regions Fund has also supported YWAM to build a new youth precinct to help address local youth crime issues.
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