The state government is contributing more than $2 million to replace Whyalla's ageing surf life saving club building and help make the club more inclusive of people who have a disability.
Key points:
- The state government will contribute $2.3 million to provide new facilities to the Whyalla Surf Life Saving Club
- Part of the upgrades will make the building more accessible for the club's members with a disability
- Whyalla City Council says it plans to chase another $3.5 million for the upgrade
Whyalla Surf Life Saving Club's Rachel Barlow said the upgrades would mean the club could provide a better surf life saving service, and would also become more accessible to the club's members with a disability.
"We have a lot of members who can't access the top room at all which is our main club room due to their disability and the stairs in their way," she said.
"The building itself is in disrepair ... the club is about 40 years old and in that time being by the beach it's had a lot of 'love' from all the salt and the sand."
Ms Barlow, who became involved with the club because of her son, who has a disability, and her involvement with a beach wheelchair program, said she was happy the club would be more accessible.
"We just want our club to be for everyone and we want the whole beach to be for everyone," she said.
Council seeking more funding
The state government will provide $2.3 million to design and construct an entirely new building, with more funding coming from the Whyalla Surf Life Saving Club and the Whyalla City Council.
However, Whyalla Mayor Clare McLoughlin said that was not enough, and the council would be seeking another $3.5 million in government funding.
"As well as a cafe or kiosk, we may also look to incorporate a restaurant with a bar, and possibly other community spaces such as function and community meeting rooms," Ms McLaughlin said.