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January 30, 2012 Surf life saving volunteers would benefit from a $10 million fund to assist clubs to purchase much needed equipment under a Coalition Government according to Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester. The fund would also allow the Coalition Government to extend the Beach Drowning Black Spot Reduction Program. Mr Chester is a member of the Parliamentary Friends of Surf Lifesaving and also volunteers as a water safety officer at junior surf life saving carnivals during summer months. He said if the Coalition was elected into government, it would assist surf life saving clubs across Gippsland through its ‘Plan to Reduce Drownings’. “Surf lifesaving clubs provide a critical service and it’s not just because they make our beaches safer. Patrolled beaches attract tourists and local economies benefit from the outstanding service of volunteers. “The Coalition recognises the work of surf life savers in protecting and saving lives and will assist clubs to purchase much needed equipment by providing grants of around $5,000 over five years.” Surf life saving clubs across Australia rescue around 12,000 people a year but tragically 315 people lost their lives through drowning in beaches, waterways, homes and in floods during 2010-11. Mr Chester said funding would be directed towards the purchase of vital rescue equipment, first aid and medical supplies. He said priority would be given to surf clubs with identified equipment deficiencies. “Surf life saving clubs can spend $3,000 a year on medical supplies like lotions, band-aids and bandages,” Mr Chester said. “It is a significant amount given that most clubs rely heavily on fundraising, donations and the work of volunteers. “The grants will help clubs cover these costs and also support the purchase of other important life saving equipment.” Mr Chester said the Coalition would later this year release plans to also tackle drownings on waterways and in households. |
