Gilmore lifesaving clubs will each receive a $5000 boost from the Coalition Government to help reduce drownings and near-deaths. “It’s part of an additional $3 million the Coalition Government is providing to lifesaving clubs and other water safety organisations around Australia,” said Federal Member Ann Sudmalis. “With nine lifesaving clubs in our region, this funding is a welcomed boost. “As many of us head to the beach at this time of year, water safety is critical.” A large part of the funding will go to the Government’s beach equipment program. “This will help the clubs buy new rescue equipment, as well as first aid and medical supplies. “Some clubs may use it to invest in new technology such as drones to help remote monitoring of unpatrolled beaches,” said Mrs Sudmalis. The five year Reduce Drownings initiative began in 2013-14. It provided a funding boost of $15 million in total to Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA), surf lifesaving clubs across Australia, the Royal Life Saving Society – Australia (RLSSA) and AUSTSWIM for their water safety programs. The additional funding for 2018-19 will go towards the same programs. As well as the beach equipment program, it will boost:
SLSA’s Beach Drowning Black Spot reduction program to tackle the incidence of drowning in identified high risk areas;
RLSSA’s River Drowning Black Spot identification program and Swim and Survive lessons for children, especially Indigenous and disadvantaged children;
AUSTSWIM’s program to provide accredited swimming and water safety teachers to targeted population groups, including remote, migrant and disadvantaged communities, and people with a disability. Media Release
