Collector Josh Leaman (13) from City of Perth Surf Life Saving Club.
Camera IconCollector Josh Leaman (13) from City of Perth Surf Life Saving Club. Credit: Supplied/Andrew Ritchie

Lifesavers seek funds to keep beaches safe

Sarah Waters, Western Suburbs WeeklyWestern Suburbs Weekly

SLSWA was responsible for more than 800 rescues last year while preventing 12,825 incidents, something chief executive Paul Andrew said they needed community support in order to continue.

Mr Andrew said many West Australians needed to realise how much SLSWA relied on public donation to carry out their service.

‘There is a perception out there that Surf Life Saving is fully funded by the government or doesn’t need community support because it is a volunteer run organisation, but the fact is we rely heavily on the support of West Australians to survive,’ Mr Andrew said.

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‘While we do receive some funds from the Government and Corporate sectors, there are many other costs that need to be covered to ensure WA beaches remain safe.’

More than 1000 volunteers in red and yellow will fill the Perth CBD, metropolitan and rural areas this Friday hoping to improve on the $72,000 raised it 2012.

Surf lifesavers can be identified by their red and yellow patrol uniforms and will be fundraising between 7am and 6pm throughout Perth and regional WA, and through until 9pm in Perth and Fremantle.

‘All funds raised go directly back to WA Surf Life Saving clubs,’ Mr Andrew said.

He said it cost a minimum of $52,000 to set up one beach patrol with all required lifesaving equipment and first – supplies.