NSW Ports will provide sponsorship for the historic Port Kembla Surf Life Saving (SLS) Club, marking more than two decades of partnership between the organisations.
NSW Ports CEO Marika Calfas said the business was proud to support the club in its mission to help keep beachgoers safe while educating people on general water safety as summer sets in.
“We’re delighted to be the major sponsor of the Port Kembla SLS Club, which is part of our commitment to give back to the Illawarra through community grants, school engagements and various other sponsorships that make a positive difference in local neighbourhoods,” she said.
“Port Kembla has a long and celebrated history as a key economic driver for the Illawarra. Today it contributes about $2.9 billion to the state’s economy each year while supporting around 10,000 jobs – with many of those workers living nearby the port.
“Port Kembla SLS Club has an incredible group of dedicated volunteer lifesavers who are out patrolling the 6.6km beach – the largest in the Wollongong area – from September to April each year. Their regular patrols help ensure our beaches are safe and able to be enjoyed by all.”
NSW Ports’ $34,000 sponsorship of the Port Kembla SLS Club includes funding for a new all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and an inflatable rescue boat (IRB) that will support lifesavers’ weekly patrols. The ATV has recently been delivered to the club for the 2023 season.
Previous grants from NSW Ports have been used to purchase surf boats that have supported Port Kembla SLS Club’s rich and successful history in surf sport competitions as well.
Port Kembla SLS Club President Rhys Bowdich said the club – that was first established in 1910 – had many members who live near or work at Port Kembla.
“We’re grateful to NSW Ports for its continued sponsorship. Not only does it support the purchase of new equipment that enables our lifesavers to protect beachgoers, but it also bolsters our community engagement efforts and membership recruitment drives,” Mr Bowditch said.
“The passion and dedication of our members is certainly core to our success. Our lifesavers are called upon each year to provide first aid, rescue swimmers or to help local rock fishermen who’ve been swept from rock shelves.
“Port Kembla is however a safe swimming beach and family favourite. We look forward to welcoming the community back to the beach as the weather heats up over the coming weeks.”
Port Kembla handles motor vehicle, project, agricultural, mining and construction cargoes, supporting farmers, businesses and the people of NSW. It will continue to grow and diversify its import and export trade and be a critical part of NSW’s green energy future. Learn more here.