FOUR surf lifesaving clubs in the Tasmanian electorate of Lyons will receive about $100,000 over five years to help with the purchase of essential rescue equipment, first aid and medical supplies.
The Bicheno, Carlton Park, Port Sorell and Scamander surf lifesaving clubs will receive $25,000 each from the Federal Government’s Beach Safety Equipment as part of $8 million to go to clubs Australia-wide to help prevent drowning deaths at our country’s beaches.
Federal Lyons MP Eric Hutchinson said yesterday he was delighted that such a substantial amount would be spent in the region.
“Surf lifesaving clubs play an integral part in keeping Tasmanians safe in the water as well as providing valuable training and fellowship particularly for young Tasmanians,’’ Mr Hutchinson said.
“Coastal waters can be hazardous and each year our dedicated life savers perform about 12,000 rescues and 32,000 first aid treatments nationally.
“It’s essential therefore that clubs have the best equipment so that they can continue to save lives and reduce the tragedy of drowning.’’
Surf Life Saving Australia president Graham Ford said that the $8 million funding nationally would provide about $5000 a year to each of the country’s 310 surf lifesaving clubs.
The 2013 Coastal Drowning Report produced by Surf Life Saving Australia identified 121 coastal drowning deaths in 2013.
As well as the $8 million for new and upgraded lifesaving and first aid equipment, the Federal Government is providing $2 million for the Beach Drowning Black Spot Reduction Program which aims to reduce drowning at dangerous beaches and provide public safety programs that highlight coastal hazards such as rip currents and rock fishing.
Federal Lyons MP Eric Hutchinson
