JANUARY 29: IT was a pleasure to introduce Deputy Leader of the Nationals and Minister for Rural Health, Sport and Regional Communications Bridget McKenzie to some of the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club team today for the announcement of $15,000 in funding.Club president Rod Leach and administrator Jocelyn Morgan showed us around the facility at the Mackay Harbour which cops a hiding due to the harsh environment of a beachside location. We’ve also had some significant storm events in recent years, not to mention Cyclone Debbie just under twelve months ago.In particular the six roller doors on the clubhouse have deteriorated due to corrosion and were damaged even more during the cyclone.These roller doors are protecting lifesaving and rescue equipment worth thousands of dollars, such as inflatable rescue boats, defibrillators, first aid supplies and patrol equipment.I was happy to recommend the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club for a grant under the Stronger Communities Programme and their application for $9,799 towards what is approximately a $28,000 project was successful.Sports Minister Bridget McKenzie restated the Coalition Government’s support for the vital service these clubs provide for the community.“At Mackay today I was able to see firsthand the valuable work so many dedicated people do to serve their community and, to save lives,” Minister McKenzie said.“People like Rod Leach, Stan Ridland, Jocelyn Morgan and Kylie Keioskie and all of the staff and volunteers, who have worked tirelessly to develop the Mackay club to the point where it now offers a full range of programs to everyone from the five year-old Nippers to elite athletes competing on the national circuit.The Stronger Communities successful grant comes on top of a $5000 boost provided to all lifesaving clubs this month as part of the Liberal National Government’s five-year Reduce Drownings initiative.An additional $3 million was added to the $15 million boost to help clubs with the purchase of new rescue equipment, as well as first aid and medical supplies.