Port Kembla Surf Club is on track to unveil recently upgraded facilities just in time for Summer, thanks to a total investment of more than $765,000 from the Port Kembla Community Investment Fund (PKCIF) to ensure the club remains a vibrant and vital facility for sunseekers to gather and enjoy.
Scheduled for completion in December, the upgraded clubhouse will offer modern and accessible amenities that benefit not only surf lifesaving members but the wider Port Kembla community, with total upgrades funded by the PKCIF fund since 2017 including:
- Improved function spaces: removal of an internal wall to create a more versatile and open area for community events. This involved structural and architectural planning, as well as environmental assessments and cost estimates for council approval.
- Bathroom upgrades: the bathroom facilities are being upgraded to meet current standard including child-safe design principles and the installation of four ambulant toilets, improving inclusivity for all users.
- Kitchen upgrades: a full renovation of the kitchen and installation of a new servery counter to improve the functionality of the space.
- Floor repairs and renewal: damaged flooring has been repaired and renewed to enhance safety for patrons and modernise rooms.
These upgrades would not have been possible without support from the PKCIF, which helps to revitalise Port Kembla and surrounding areas for the benefit of the community through new infrastructure, upgrading of existing assets as well as encouraging visitors and tourism.
Quotes attributable to Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park:
"Considered the home of women's surf lifesaving, the Port Kembla Surf Club has been at the heart of the Port Kembla community for over 100 years.
"Members play a key role in protecting our community from September to April every year by providing first aid and rescuing swimmers in trouble.
"The Club not only delivers lifesaving care to beachgoers but is a vital community hub through its range of surf sports and competitions, helping to keep the local community engaged and active.
"With total project completion set for December, the club will be ready for the summer season ensuring lifesavers have the best possible facilities to support them in their work."
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty:
"With summer approaching, these upgrades are crucial to supporting the vital work of Port Kembla Surf Club and ensuring that lifesavers can continue to provide essential services and protect beachgoers.
"Port Kembla has been a key economic driver for the Illawarra since the 1890s, and the NSW Government is proud to support projects like this through the Port Kembla Community Investment Fund.
"Since 2017, investment from the PKCIF has enhanced the facility for the local community, promoting tourism and creating a more vibrant and attractive Port Kembla for all.
"I am confident the community will continue to reap the benefits of the Surf Club with the newly announced upgrades to the bathroom and kitchen facilities."
Quotes attributable to Member for Wollongong Paul Scully:
"Port Kembla Surf Club is the heart of the Port Kembla community and at more than 100 years old these upgrades are welcome, looking after one of the best beaches in the region.
"The PKCIF continues to deliver important new and upgraded community infrastructure."
Quotes attributable to Port Kembla Surf Club Secretary Nathan Boscaro:
"The support from the PKCIF has been vital in bringing our vision of a modern facility to life.
"Since the initial round of funding, this project has evolved and expanded, reflecting our commitment to serving the community.
"We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the NSW government for their invaluable support throughout this journey."
