The plan includes a double-garage area for storing equipment, plus some extra office space inside the complex. It is hoped the improvements will result in immediate access to rescue equipment when required.
For several years, the expensive Coast Guard lifesaving equipment had been sitting idle due to a lack of storage space at the clubhouse. An inflatable rescue boat, trailer, and four-wheel-drive vehicle, all purchased with rescue in mind, were unavailable when most needed. Mooloolaba Coast Guard commander, John Annabell, said:
“There is all kinds of safety and rescue equipment we have purchased because when we had the opportunity to get this equipment, we got it, but we had nowhere to store it.”
In order to use the rescue boat, the four-wheel-drive and trailer need to be on hand. The off-site storage meant that it could take up to an hour before rescuers were on the move. The situation has been frustrating, with Mr Annabell citing numerous situations in which the boat could have been utilised had it not been for such impractical logistics.
Rotary club volunteers, along with at least a dozen construction firms, have all pledged to assist in building the facility. Mooloolaba printing services eagerly await completion of the facility, which is a focal point of this vibrant tourism destination and is often featured in attractive brochure printing and catalogue printing initiatives.
Community members wanting to assist with the clubhouse renovations can get in touch with Mr Annabell on 0412 545 600.