SURF CLUBHOUSE OPENS DOORS

THE new Ocean Grove lifesaving clubhouse has been officially opened, boosting the safety of beachgoers at one of Victoria’s most popular surf beaches.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services Lisa Neville yesterday unveiled the plaque to mark the opening of the modern, fit-for-purpose clubhouse, thanking the club and the community for delivering the facility.

“This fantastic facility is testament to the community and club working together to ensure the safety of locals and visitors for many years to come,” she said.

“The club has been keeping beachgoers safe for the past 70 years and in the past 25 years, club membership has quadrupled.

“These new facilities will help its many loyal members continue their wonderful work.

“The old clubhouse had a long and distinguished history, but no longer served members’ needs.

“This new facility will deliver a much-needed boost to volunteers, Ocean Grove residents and visitors to the Bellarine Peninsula.”

The State Government has invested $4.3 million in the project, which will give volunteer lifesavers more space to support their summer patrols, as well as education and training opportunities. It will also provide year-round facilities for Ocean Grove residents and visitors to enjoy.

Formed in 1948, the Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club currently has about 1000 members, with approximately 350 of those junior or “nipper” members.

During the 2018—19 season, lifesavers and lifeguards performed 7862 preventive actions and 82 first-aid treatments.