THE spotlight will go on water safety today with Shadow Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Opposition, Senator Arthur Sinodinos, and Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch announcing that Far North Surf Life Saving Clubs will benefit under the Coalition’s new Practical Plan to Reduce Drownings.
The plan will see Australia’s 310 Surf Life Saving Clubs, including Port Douglas, Ellis Beach and Cairns Surf Life Saving Clubs, receive average grants of $25,000 each over the next five years to assist with the purchase of essential equipment, first aid and medical supplies.
“A typical surf club spends $3,000 a year on medical supplies like lotions, Band-Aids and bandages, so these grants will help surf clubs make ends meet,” Mr Entsch said.
“We will also provide $2 million to expand the successful Beach Drowning Black Spot Reduction programme.”
Surf Lifesaving volunteers and Australian Lifeguards do an incredible job on our shores.
Senator Sinodinos said that a Coalition government will work with Surf Life Saving, the Royal Life Saving Society and AUSTSWIM to reduce the number of drownings across Australia.
“This is a practical plan that works with water safety experts to reduce the number of drownings on our beaches, waterways and rivers and in pools and bathtubs,” he said.
“It’s great news for all the clubs across Australia and I’m particularly pleased to be here representing Opposition Leader Tony Abbott as I know he recently accepted the position of Number One ticket holder the Cairns Surf Life Saving Club, one of the oldest clubs in Queensland.
“This announcement only serves to reinforce our commitment to these great groups.”
While Australians love the water, sadly five people every week lose their life to drowning.
“Most drownings are, in some way, avoidable – that is why we must invest in prevention,” Mr Entsch explained.
“Our policy funds the experts whose work saves lives every day: Australia’s surf lifesaving clubs, the Royal Life Saving Society and AUSTSWIM.
“As currents can be as dangerous as rips, our policy will work with the Royal Life Saving Society Australia to identify ways of improving water safety on our inland waterways. This includes targeting alcohol consumption, the safe use of watercraft as well as providing practical training on things like water safety and CPR.
“This is a practical policy that will, over time, save many families from heartache.
“The Coalition’s $15 million commitment is part of our Real Solutions Plan to build a stronger Australia and a better future for all Australians.”
Warren and Sen. Arthur Sinodinos announce the new funding for the Far North’s surf life saving clubs.
