Plans for a major redevelopment of the Maroochydore Surf Life Saving Club have been approved by the state government.
This paves the way for the club to future-proof its volunteer base.
The estimated $35 million rebuild of one of the Sunshine Coast’s most recognisable surf clubs is set to begin in 2027, with a two-year construction timeframe. Club president Victoria Berry says the redevelopment will enable Maroochydore to continue building its volunteer numbers, keeping beachgoers safe into the future.
“This building will be a lasting legacy for our existing and future members who provide an amazing service to our community,” she says.
“Currently, our nippers are capped at 300 because there simply aren’t the facilities to cater for more. Our nippers are our future patrolling members. They are the future of our club.
“This redevelopment will also rejuvenate the Maroochydore foreshore, providing more shaded areas, seating and a café for the public to enjoy.”
The new-look surf club will include a bar, bistro and restaurant in the same footprint as the existing facilities with the addition of a new ground-level beachfront café. Members will have an on-site gym, added equipment storage, dormitories and an improved first-aid room.
Victoria says volunteer surf lifesavers will continue to raise the red and yellow flags at Maroochydore beach during the demolition and rebuild phases.
She says the club will be embarking on grassroots fundraising programs to help offset the expected reduction in funding and trading during that time.
“We are expecting a couple of years of reduced funds and will be looking for sponsors to help us sustain our service levels,” Victoria says. “This plan has been four years in the making and I’d like to express my gratitude to all the club members and volunteers who have helped make that happen.”
Life governor Laurie Murphy, the club’s building and works committee chairman, says the new facility will enable volunteers to continue protecting their community.
“Surf lifesaving is one of the true iconic Australian community services where people are prepared to risk their lives for people they don’t know,” he says.
“This new facility will give people who are volunteers a place where they can continue the service they’ve been doing since 1916.”
