Government grant assists Surf Life Saving leaders of the future

As the Surf Life Saving season is set to begin at Labour weekend, the Prime Minister, Rt Hon John Key was today greeted by a flotilla of four Inflatable Rescue Boats (IRB’s) after presenting a special $250,000 grant to Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) in recognition of 100 years of outstanding community service on New Zealand’s beaches.

The New Zealand Government is honouring the vital work of Surf Lifeguards, who have given their time and expertise to prevent drowning and injury for the past century, saving more than 50,000 lives.

Bob Harvey, President of SLSNZ, said the organisation was hugely grateful for the Government’s grant, which will go towards a new leadership programme, identifying and nurturing Surf Life Saving leaders of tomorrow and taking this iconic organisation into its next century.

“This special grant from Central Government will allow us to develop effective leaders and grow our own talent. We are an organisation passionate about preventing injury and drowning and we are lucky to have so many outstanding, charismatic and talented people who make up our membership.

“The Leadership programme will focus on these high potential individuals from all levels within Surf Life Saving New Zealand. This generous grant will help to ensure a sustainable future for the organisation, made up of strong, capable leaders who get satisfaction out of what they do, who collaborate and work together to drive the organisation forward and who inspire younger members to follow in their footsteps,” says Mr Harvey.

The New Zealand Government recognises the essential service SLSNZ provides and the enormous commitment of its 3,800 volunteer lifeguards and the 73 clubs that patrol over 80 beaches from Ahipara in the far north to Oreti in the south.