MEDIA RELEASE
DATE: 10/10/24
Council Supports New Robe Surf Life Saving Club Precinct
Following Strong Community Engagement
Photo: Robe Surf Life Saving Club – patrolling Long Beach, Robe
A new Robe Surf Life Saving Club (RSLSC) Precinct has taken a significant step forward following a successful community engagement campaign that revealed overwhelming support from survey respondents. Nearly 80% expressed their support for the project, highlighting the community’s recognition of the vital role the club plays in ensuring safety along our coastline.
The recent council decision to approve the proposed location for the new facility at Lot 5, Esplanade, Robe (carpark at Second Ramp) sets the stage for the planning process to begin. This location was chosen after years of negotiations relating to various sites, all of which were discounted for one reason or another. The ability to access Long Beach via the Second Ramp is fundamental to the emergency rescue services the RSLSC provides.
With the council’s commitment to the project, the RSLSC is now able to move forward with necessary planning and development, including an initial investment of at least $20,000 to reach the concept stage.
Council is confident the concerns raised during the community engagement campaign such as car parking, environmental impact, amenity and aesthetics will be addressed during the development assessment process, where the project will be referred to several authorities to ensure development is in accordance with proper planning principles, which also consider community feedback.
"We are excited to begin the design phase of our new facility, which will be developed with community input," said Kristina Alexander, President of the Robe Surf Life Saving Club. "Our vision includes a single-story construction with a low roof line to minimise environmental impact. We aim to use sustainable and local materials, ensuring our facility meets both community and ecological needs.
The new facility will ensure that our volunteer Surf Life Savers will be equipped to be rescue ready to save lives along the popular Robe beach each summer."
Key features envisioned for the new facility include:
-Emergency vehicle garaging
-First Aid storage room
-Change rooms
-Toilet and shower facilities
-Meeting and training room
-Engagement of local trade services for construction and maintenance
Prior to the Council’s decision, Mayor Lisa Ruffell and other Council Members visited the current RSLSC facilities located in the industrial estate, far from the foreshore and far from ideal.
This visit provided an opportunity to witness firsthand the passion and dedication of the club’s volunteers, who play a crucial role in providing emergency services not just on water, but for land-based activities along our busy beaches. The council members observed the club’s equipment and learned about the vital services the volunteers deliver, particularly during peak tourist seasons when the influx of visitors to Robe is significant.
"Robe is a coastal town that thrives on tourism and having a well-equipped and accessible surf lifesaving club is essential for the safety of our community and visitors alike," said Mayor Lisa Ruffell. "We are proud to support this project, which will enhance our emergency services and contribute to the overall well-being of our community."
As the planning process progresses, the Robe Surf Life Saving Club and Council are united in their commitment to keeping the community informed and engaged, ensuring that the new precinct meets the needs and expectations of residents and the surf lifesaving community.
Funding commitments:
Proposed cost $2,321,400
The RSLSC 11% $255,354
SAFECOM 56% $1,299.986
District Council of Robe 33% $766,060
-ENDS-
Contacts:
| Mayor Lisa Ruffell | Chief Executive Officer Nat Traeger |
| mayorruffell@robe.sa.gov.au | ceo@robe.sa.gov.au |
| 0474 581 595 | 0429 799 526 |