Since becoming president of the Nambucca Heads Surf Life Saving Club a few months ago local Gary Colston has set in motion plans to update the ailing building.
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“Basically we are looking to upgrade the building, this place hasn't been renovated in years, its falling apart, the gutters are falling down, the railings are rusted,” Mr Colston said.
“This is just the start; we are planning to get the whole building and surrounding area restored to a workable state. Council is looking at getting the boardwalk and paths down here upgraded, and they have already started replanting native plants on the embankment.”
While he has already got the help of several local businesses, Mr Colston is still on the lookout for more community support.
“Trisleys Betta Home Living in town donated a TV and sound bar, Tinks at Macksville has helped, so has the local chamber of commerce headed by Tony Stokes and Earnshaw Engineering, I’m also in talks with a few businesses to help sponsor us.”
“This is all for the community; once we get the club fixed up we will be looking to allow the hall to be rented out again, we are also looking at holding our own events here like other surf clubs do as well.”
We used to have weddings here, school events, I’m trying to get that all going again
- Gary Colston
All money raised through events will go straight back into the club to keep it from falling into disrepair again.
“We are a charity run organisation, community support, sponsors and grants keep us going.”
This Saturday night will mark the first time the club has had a Christmas party in years and Mr Colston hopes it won't be the last event held on the premises.
“I’m hoping to use my time as president to put the surf club back on the map. We used to have weddings here, school events, I’m trying to get that all going again.”
Aside from reinventing the club, Mr Colston is also looking to recruit and grow member numbers.
“We are always looking for people, everybody is welcome and can get involved however they can, even if its just a few shifts of patrolling,” Mr Colston said.
“There are all walks of life at the club; we have tradesmen, a paramedic, teachers. There is a vast well of knowledge here, and we all come together to help however we can.”
Anyone looking to help, sponsor or join the Nambucca Heads Surf Life Saving Club can get involved by contacting president Gary Colston on 0427203643.
Check out their Facebook pages at Nambucca Nippers and Nambucca Heads Surf Life Saving.
