Liberal Party candidate for the Federal seat of Gilmore, Andrew Constance, has announced a commitment of $5.5 million to fund the $6 million redevelopment of the Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club premises.

The Federal Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, Dan Tehan, came down to Gerringong to support the announcement, saying the money will be available within six months of the Morrison Government being returned to power, whether or not Labor’s Fiona Phillips retains the seat.

“It will come out of our Building Better Regions fund. We want to set this club up for the decades to come,” he said.

“This will come if a Morrison Government is relected.”

Discussions have commenced with Surf Lifesaving Australia to provide the remaining half million.

A DA for the clubhouse is currently being considered by Council, with the exhibition period now over and a decision pending.

The proposed redevelopment is awaiting approval

“Built in the 1970s, the Club house is due for a serious upgrade,” said Mr Constance.

“The current design does not allow a proper view of the beach, particularly the inner shore gutter and permanent rip to the south. This is extremely dangerous when poor conditions force the patrol into the clubhouse.

“This upgrade will allow a proper view of the beach and provide more storage.

“These upgrades are also about ensuring our local community and visitors to the region can feel safe when they’re enjoying Gerringong’s great beaches.”

He stressed that the announcement was not about politics, but about supporting the community, and that he would welcome the commitment being matched by the other candidates.

“This is not just a building, but a community hub,” he said.

“It will not only serve the club, but also the wider community.”

The work will involve the demolition of the existing clubhouse, which was built by club members in the 1970s, and construction of a new two story building with much enlarged storerooms; male/female and accessible facilties; a members gym; patrol and first aid rooms; a members bar and function areas; a kiosk; a lift; and more.

Gerringong SLSC has 280 registered nippers and more than 100 patrolling members, plus many more volunteers.

Current storage is inadequate, with much equipment being kept at members' homes

When the Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, was approached about the annoucement, she said that she supports the project and will be making further comment in the coming weeks.

“I note that Andrew Constance and the Morrison Government has still not matched Labor’s commitment to a full headspace in Kiama, which is what the community wants,” she said.

Mr Constance says supporting community-based initiatives is key to improving mental health.

“There should be headspace representation in Kiama. There is already an allocation for mental health in the budget and now I am fighting for Gilmore to get its requisite share, and it shouldn’t be a decision between Shellharbour and Kiama. Both communities need it.”