SURF LIFE SAVING –
Killcare Surf Lifesaving Club (SLSC) have received $30,000 in funding for a solar panel installation project as part of the 2021-22 NSW Budget.
President of Killcare SLSC, Craig Sheppard, said the Club was very excited to have received the grant.
“We’re in the final stages of the design of a solar array and battery system that will see a net saving to the Club of thousands of dollars a year all of which will be channelled to essential lifesaving and development services,” Sheppard said.
“While an enormous financial and environmental benefit, our longer term vision is to expand the battery capacity to enable to us to run ‘off the grid’ for extended periods in the event of emergency.
“As well as ensuring continuity of service for our core mission, this will also provide a community facility which could be as simple as charging phones when the power is out, right up to a full mobilisation as an evacuation centre.
“We’re grateful to Adam Crouch for his support.”
The grant was awarded through the State Government’s Surf Club Facility Grant program.
Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, said the surf club would be better equipped to protect beachgoers and operate more efficiently.
“Surf clubs are more than bricks and mortar, they are community gathering places used year-round for a range of activities and events,” Crouch said.
“During the summer season, volunteer lifesavers are on the beaches every weekend in good weather or bad, protecting both locals and visitors from a range of hazards.
“The Central Coast is the volunteering capital of Australia and I want to acknowledge the invaluable work performed by each of our 15 local surf clubs.
Crouch said the projects to receive funding include a clubhouse upgrade, a roofing upgrade and the installation of sustainable energy systems.
“By installing sustainable energy systems like solar panels, surf clubs will be able to reduce their electricity bill, and re-invest the savings into better supporting its members and patrolling the beaches, “Crouch added.
Surf lifesaving clubs at Macmasters Beach, Shelly Beach, Terrigal and The Entrance also received funding as part of the 2021-22 NSW Budget.
Maisy Rae