WORKS are set to begin on a $4 million lifesaving club and Indigenous Gathering Place in Mordialloc.
Kingston Council at its latest meeting appointed a builder for what it describes as “an exciting new community building”. FIMMA Constructions is expected to begin work next month.
The funding is a partnership between Kingston Council ($2.94 million), state government in association with Life Saving Victoria ($1m) and Mordialloc Surf Lifesaving Club ($100,000).
Mayor Cr Geoff Gledhill said the project was a highlight of the council’s 2015/16 budget and would provide a valuable community asset.
“The Gathering Place will serve as a place of welcome for Aboriginal community members where they can connect, learn new skills, learn from Aboriginal elders, undertake ceremonial activities, share cultural heritage and hear Elder talks on caring for coastal and sea country,” Cr Gledhill said.
“The space could also be a resource for the broader Kingston community to learn about Aboriginal culture, promote Aboriginal cultural heritage and to strengthen community connections.”
The building will also provide Mordialloc Life Saving Club with much-needed facilities. “Council is pleased to invest in this vital project that will help the club in its good work of keeping the community safe on our beaches each summer,” Cr Gledhill said.
“The Kingston community is grateful for the time dedicated by our volunteer lifeguards and recognises the need for them to have modern and functional facilities.”
Mordialloc Life Saving Club president Grant Rattenbury said he was thrilled with the project. “The whole club is buzzing,” he said.
“Our current building has limited space and is 60 years old – so this couldn’t come at a better time.
“This new facility will offer improved meeting rooms, training facilities and storage space for our 600 members and help our volunteers better serve the community through our summer beach patrols.”
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 2 September 2015
