By Councillor Melissa Matters

The newly completed Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club facility is a significant community asset, made possible by public funding and the dedication of volunteers.

Its activation presents an opportunity to enhance community engagement and financial sustainability, ensuring it remains accessible to the broader public.

To support ongoing sustainability, the facility has been granted 52 Sunday Sippers fundraising events and an opportunity to operate the kiosk through its volunteer members.

If this option is not taken up, Council will initiate an expression of interest (EOI) process to lease the space, ensuring a fair and transparent approach to the management of this public asset.

There has been some confusion regarding the new kiosk and the kiosk that has been operating previously in a shipping container. These are separate matters. 

The new kiosk operates within a Council-owned facility on community land, and leasing arrangements must align with governance and regulatory requirements.

In line with these obligations, the correct process has been implemented to ensure future operations comply with leasing conditions.

As a publicly funded facility, the venue must remain open and accessible to the entire community.

Expanding opportunities for community involvement beyond patrolling members would further reinforce its role as a shared space. 

Public advocacy played a key role in securing toilet facilities, which were not included in the original plans.

These are now open for community use, consistent with other surf club facilities across the region.

At a recent Council meeting, it was noted that the kiosk has the capacity to employ multiple staff members, highlighting its ability to contribute to local employment and community engagement. 

Moving forward, a formalised leasing process will ensure the kiosk operates within established guidelines, aligning with lease conditions and community expectations.

While surf lifesaving remains the primary function of the venue, the club also participates in sporting competitions. 

Like all community sporting organisations, there is a need to balance operational costs with financial sustainability.

Volunteers play an essential role across all community groups, from surf clubs and sporting associations to service organisations. Ensuring this facility remains a shared and inclusive community asset will be key to its long-term success.

With Council now responsible for the building’s maintenance, the costs will be covered by the broader community through public funds.

However, as a Council asset, the facility is also expected to generate revenue to contribute to its own upkeep, ensuring it does not rely solely on ratepayers for ongoing maintenance. 

Across the region, sporting groups operate under financial constraints, with the Kiama District Sports Association managing 20 clubs on an annual budget of just $60,000.

This highlights the need for fairness in the distribution of community resources.

This publicly funded facility was built for community benefit and must serve all members of the public.

By embracing a community-focused approach, the venue has the opportunity to ensure it remains sustainable, inclusive, and accessible for years to come.

The views expressed here are the personal views of Councillor Matters and do not represent those of Kiama Municipal Council