A 60-year-old surf lifesaving club is riding a wave of community support as it re-emerges from the depths of a lengthy hiatus.
The long-serving club folded in 2014 after it struggled to pay its debts, amid stiff competition from cashed-up clubs.
But it has been given the green light to operate again by Surf Life Saving Queensland and Noosa Council, after it proved it had the support of the community, with a foundation of juniors and volunteers.
Peregian Beach SLSC is now operating once more after an eight-year lull.
The club has a 10-year lease, from council, for life saving services to operate from the club-house building, which has had a makeover.
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Peregian Beach Surf Life Saving Club president John Roderick said the future looked bright.
“There are exciting times ahead for the club, as it is patrolling the beach again, having gone through a setup process for the last few years,” he said.
“It has been a very busy and positive start to the season, with new committees and lots and lots to learn and do – not only establishing the lifesaving club and supporters club but also making sure we are patrolling and managing the beach to SLSQ standards.”
The club essentially includes two associations – the Peregian Beach Surf Life Saving Club and the Peregian Beach Surf Life Saving Supporters Club.
The former provides the framework for essential lifesaving services and a growing nippers program that has about 200 members.
The club will patrol on Sundays during the 2022/2023 season, with the aim to patrol on weekends and public holidays in years to come.
“Our main focus, to give the club the best opportunity, is to increase memberships,” Mr Roderick said.
Meanwhile, the supporters club’s focus is to generate income for the PBSLSC.
One of its main income streams is the popular markets, held on the first and third Sunday of each month.
The clubhouse building can also host social nights and can be hired for functions. It can also be used for lifesaving training.
The venue underwent a significant revamp, which included re-fitting and painting.
Much of the renovations were aided by support from council, local businesses and residents and club members.
PBSLSC Chair Marinus Jansen said there was “a lot of community support”.
“At this early stage in the season, my personal view is that we are doing extremely well with the resources we have.”
“We have a very supportive community, not only donating funds and time but also helping with the mammoth task of re-establishing the club.
“The question for club members and the wider community remains – what does the future club look like and how does it fit into the Peregian Beach footprint and community?”
Peregian Beach SLSC was formed by local lifesavers and developer T.M. Burke in 1962 but was disbanded in 1974 when a cyclone destroyed its small clubhouse.
Community support led to a rejuvenation in 1984 and a new clubhouse in 1988.
It was expanded and then renovated with a bank loan, before the club folded in 2014 after it struggled to pay its debts. Now, it’s riding a new wave of resurgence.
The club essentially started operating again in September, at the start of the 2022/2023 lifesaving season.
For more, visit Peregian Surf Club. To find out more about membership and/or volunteering contact hello@peregiansurfclub.com.au. To make suggestions on the future of the club, please contact supporters@peregiansurfclub.com.au.
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