Australia’s surf life saving clubs will become part of the frontline in the national effort to conserve water, following an announcement by the Minister for Climate Change and Water, Senator Penny Wong that the Australian Government will make available grants of up to $10,000 to clubs to install water saving and efficiency devices.

Water conservation initiatives form an integral part of Surf Life Saving Australia’s (SLSA’s) Ecosurf initative, which is has been developed to address the effects that climate change will have on the Australian coastline, and consequently surf life saving clubs, both now and in the future.

Senator Wong announced the Surf Life Saving component of the $250 million National Rainwater and Greywater Initiative at Ocean Grove SLSC in Victoria on 1 October 2008.

The National Rainwater and Greywater Initiative forms part of the Australian Government’s $12.9 billion Water for the Future program which aims to secure the country’s long-term water supplies.

SLSA’s Group General Manager, Michael Hornby, said the grants made available to surf life saving clubs through the National Rainwater and Greywater Initiative will help kick start the organisation’s goal of making all clubs environmentally sustainable.

“Surf Life Saving has recognised the that we have the potential through our clubs, members and the people we interact with, such as beach goers and our supporters, to implement practical ways in which we can have a positive impact on the environment,” said Hornby.

“Thanks to the grants from the Australian Government, our clubs can take vital first steps in the areas of water saving and water efficiency at their clubs.

“We have also commissioned a ‘Clean Energy Feasibility Study’ that will review the current energy consumption and energy costs of a sample of SLSA’s 306 clubs representing different states, climate zones, membership and building sizes.

“An action plan will developed for all clubs once the study is completed that will include how to implement energy efficiency measures and other renewable energy options,” he said.

To download a copy of the guidelines please click here.

To download a copy of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) please click here.

To download a copy of the fact sheet please click here.

To download a copy of the application form please click here.

If your club has recently updated their facilities or introduced environmentally friendly practices please email watersavings@slsa.asn.au
Page updated: August 2008