Margaret River Surf Lifesaving Club goes from strength to strength as momentum builds

Margaret River Surf Lifesaving Club says junior training programs are only getting stronger in the region, as the club eyes the future development of a major hub in town catering to Statewide activities. Club spokesman Richard Lee-Pullen said MRSLC now boasted more than 270 junior members and 80 adults since it first started in 2017-18. Children in particular gained crucial knowledge helping them face the region’s sometimes harsh conditions, with Bronze medallion training a key feature. “In a region famous for big waves and wild surf, learning the skills to stay safe in the ocean is extremely beneficial,” Mr Lee-Pullen said. “As any parent knows, it can be nerve-racking watching your child swim, or paddle, into the waves and deep water. “Getting caught in a rip at Redgate or pummelled by waves at the Rivermouth can be really scary, for both the person involved and the onlookers,” he said. “Teaching children about different surf conditions and giving them the skills to enjoy the ocean safely is life changing. “Getting adults trained so that they know what to do when they see someone in danger, or have to perform first aid, is equally as important.” Among the club’s recent achievements was member Jake Fisher’s award of a WA Surf Lifesaving silver medallion for bravery for his rescue of a woman at Gas Bay, 13 club members achieving their bronze medallion, and one club member now officially on lifeguard duties at Rivermouth. The club was also balancing the logistical challenges while waiting for Surf Lifesaving WA’s redevelopment of the Margaret River Lodge as a State centre for lifesaving excellence. “It’s quite an achievement, given the lack of amenities,” Mr Lee-Pullen told the Times. “Operating out of a small shed on Resort Place, Gnarabup, all the equipment has to be loaded into trailers each week and transported to the beach. “It’s quite a logistical challenge considering the popularity of the White Elephant Cafe and the boat ramp, but the club has managed to maintain its enthusiasm and focus to provide locals with a sporting club that benefits everyone, not just its members.” Mr Lee-Pullen said strong commitment from parents who understood “this is not a drop-and-run style sporting club” and wide community support bolstered the case for the growth of lifesaving in the region. In November, Lotterywest injected $870,000 to redevelop the Lodge to increase its capacity to host visiting members, with plans to accommodate about 100 people in backpacker-style quarters. The revamped base would also be used as an emergency response centre, for training, equipment storage, and administration.