SURF BOAT & SSV LAUNCH

“LES TOWNSEND” SURF BOAT LAUNCH & UNVEILING OF SSV

Wanda Surf Life Saving Club celebrated the launch of its new Surf Boat and the unveiling of the club’s new SSV (Side by Side Vehicle) with speeches and tributes in front of a large crowd of members and supporters on Sunday 15 September.

The surf boat was donated the club’s long-term supporter of the Boat Section, Gerard Malouf and Partners (GMP) and will be named in honour of Life Member, Les Townsend. “Being honoured with a surfboat named after you is one of the highest accolades in our club, and it is a testament to Les’s extraordinary contribution over a long period”, said Wanda SLSC President, Fiona Sutton.

Les has volunteered over fifty years of exemplary service to Wanda and the community.  He’s been an active patrolling member and Boat Captain, is an exceptional competitive surf boat rower and sweep and continues today to share his skills and experience as a coach and mentor, building the numbers in the female crews to match the male crews in recent years.

“Les’s dedication and passion for the surf boats is remarkable and has made a significant impact on the Wanda Boat Section” said Wanda SLSC Patron, Mark Sargeant.

The SSV for use by the club’s patrolling members was part funded by the IMB Bank Community Foundation’s Grant Program.

The Foundation was established in 1999 with the purpose of helping to build strong and resilient communities by granting funds to groups that contribute and make a valuable and positive difference to their communities, such as surf lifesaving clubs.

“The SSV is a vital piece of equipment for our club – it means we can respond quickly to emergencies at Wanda Beach and beyond and carry essential lifesaving gear.  We really appreciate IMB’s support in helping us keep the community safe and to continue the club’s record of ‘no lives lost’ while on patrol” said Wanda SLSC Club Captain, Denny Rowlands.

“Being a volunteer organisation that relies on support, we cannot thank GMP and the IMB Bank Community Foundation enough for their generosity to surf lifesaving and the community” said Fiona Sutton.