Message from George Shales, President Surf Life Saving NSW, regarding SLSNSW's continuing response to the NSW bushfire crisis.
Dear Members,
This week has seen some positive developments across the state for those members, clubs and communities who have been impacted by the bushfires. We have seen some rainfall and more to come. Roads are re-opened and many homes and businesses are commencing their recovery journey after these horrendous events.
Our Far South Coast President Tony Rettke posted this update on the amazing work of our volunteer teams, and community.
The overwhelming offers of assistance from members wanting to support their fellow lifesavers has been heart-warming and clubs are now starting to look at future needs.
The links below will continue to be updated as more information becomes available and as consultation continues with clubs in the north and south of the state.
The following links provide positive options of support for our bushfire affected members and clubs:
- Patrol Support – the main focus for the FSC is the Australia Day long-weekend. Register your skills and support here.
- Club working bees – coming soon
- Fundraising for clubs – Many clubs are wanting to raise funds specifically for those clubs involved directly with the bushfire response and recovery. Please contact Rachel Verity (SLSNSW Financial Controller) for details
- Equipment donations – coming soon
- Show your support to lifesavers via #mysurflife – say thanks via videos, photos and drawings
- Out of date First Aid Supplies – will be sent to the RSPCA to assist with the treatment of injured wildlife. Please package up and send them to Bushfire First Aid Supplies at SLSNSW.
Our advice continues to be that impacted clubs do not want or need donations of food, clothing or toys.
There are many ways that you can help and, according to the NSW Rural Fire Service, the best way to do this is to donate money directly to charities who are supporting local disaster response efforts. Money gives people the choice to buy things they need and supports local businesses that have also been impacted.
- Australian Red Cross Disaster Recover and Relief
- Salvation Army Disaster Appeal
- Wildlife Rescue (WIRES)
- RSPCA Bushfire Support
We will continue to work closely with all our clubs involved in this bushfire crisis to determine their specific needs. We encourage you to check back in to our How You Can Help page regularly to see what these clubs need. We also encourage you to visit the coast of NSW, buy local and support the towns and local businesses.
Thank you again for continuing to demonstrate what it means to be lifesavers.
George Shales
President
Surf Life Saving NSW