Established in 1926, the Ayr Surf Life Saving Club (Ayr SLSC) has long been a cornerstone of the Burdekin community. From September through May, the dedicated volunteers patrol Alva Beach, promoting water safety and lifesaving skills to people of all ages. In addition to their beach patrols, Ayr SLSC actively supports community events like the Burdekin Sugar Rush, Norm Perry Rotary Duck Race, Water Festival, and the Harvest Festival.
Kellie Lawry, Junior Activities Coordinator, Registrar, and Social Media Officer for Ayr SLSC, highlights the volunteer-driven nature of the club. “Our club has just shy of 100 members, mostly nippers, and all volunteers,” she shares. This commitment to community service inspired Ayr SLSC to apply for a Bendigo Bank Community Grant, especially after a recent first aid audit revealed that several essential medical supplies were out of date.
The Bendigo Bank Community Bank Home Hill and Ayr granted $3,214 to Ayr SLSC, a contribution that will go directly toward enhancing safety measures. The funding will cover the purchase of a new automated external defibrillator case, a fully stocked first aid kit, and a range of consumables such as bandages, gauze, medical tape, gloves, and masks.
For the club, receiving the grant is both rewarding and impactful.
“It’s always gratifying when a grant application is successful,” Lawry says. “This funding allows us to provide safer conditions at Alva Beach, benefiting both our club members and the wider community who visit the beach.”
Beyond this grant, Kellie acknowledges the significant role Bendigo Bank plays in supporting the Burdekin.
"The Bendigo Bank is extremely important to the local community. Thirty-nine voluntary organisations are now able to give back to the Burdekin Shire community," she explains.
Ayr SLSC remains open to all community members, offering lifesaving skills that can be invaluable in emergencies. Through their efforts, they hope to continue instilling essential skills in their members, nurturing a future generation capable of saving lives.
John Furnell receives Bendigo Grant on behalf of ASLSC. Photo supplied
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