An iconic surf club is about to throw open the doors on an ambitious upgrade.
The Coolum Surf Club is expected to reopen on Friday after completing the final stage of a major renovation program.
The latest works include a new reception area, sports bar, outdoor deck and upgraded gaming facilities.
Club operations manager Petra Shorter said the project had given the beachfront venue a fresh new look.
“Designed with the customer experience at its heart, the transformation aims to make every visitor feel instantly at home,” she said.
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“This exciting development reflects the venue’s commitment to innovation and excellence, setting a new benchmark for hospitality in the region.”
The new grand entrance and reception area creates a striking first impression, while a lift to the mezzanine level improves accessibility and flow. The state-of-the-art sports bar features a 4.2m by 2.3m screen, upgraded TAB facilities, bathrooms and gaming areas.
Additional seating has been added to the new Beachfront Balcony, and the ocean-facing lounge area has been expanded. The club now offers a versatile functions space that can cater to all occasions.
“The anticipation has been palpable,” Ms Shorter said.
“Watching the transformation take shape over the last seven months has been a huge talking point for all who visit or pass, with many comments on how excited the wider community is to see the finished product.”
The club, led by general manager Adam Mann, maintained operations throughout the renovation.
“Communicating to everyone that we were still open for business was the biggest challenge,” Ms Shorter said.
A gala weekend at the end of September will celebrate the full completion of the renovation, with final touches ongoing in the supporters and lifesaving club areas.
The multimillion-dollar final stage of the self-funded redevelopment completes a renovation program that began with the revamp of the club’s function and dining spaces in 2013.
The Coolum Surf Club has been a local institution since 1919. A purpose-built clubhouse opened in 1936, costing 300 pounds, while the current two-storey building was opened in 1984.
The club has about 240 active volunteer lifesavers, more than 200 nippers and over 18,300 members. The renovation also allowed the club to increase its staff base by 20.
