By JONATHON HOWARD
IT was the farewell many Peregian Surf Life Saving Club members and employees had been dreading – but one that seemed inevitable.
Peregian Surf Life Saving Club president, Brett Leckie, put minds at ease on Sunday 8 June, when he announced on Facebook that the Peregian Supporters Club (upstairs) would close permanently.
Whether it was a lack of members, financial strain (following a club audit) or something more remains a mystery, however, one positive is that the Peregian Surf Lifesaving Club (downstairs) will continue unaffected.
Mr Leckie took the opportunity to thank the staff, committee and volunteers for their “tireless efforts”.
A total of 18 fulltime and causal staff had been anxiously clinging to hope that the club would re-open and signal an end to the drama. But that hope has now faded and staff members are jobless.
Peregian Supporters Club manager, Martin Isherwood, said the team had worked hard to put the club back on top but his time had been cut short.
Mr Leckie said the club was left with one final decision – when to close.
“It is with deep regret that not even Batman can keep the Peregian Supporters Club open. After an extensive audit process we were left with only one decision to make, which weekend does it happen. So this weekend was it,” he posted on the Peregian Surf Life Saving Club’s Facebook page.
“Today (Sunday 8 June) will be the last day of trade so come in and say farewell.”
“The Peregian Lifesaving Club downstairs will continue unaffected by the closure upstairs.”
Mr Leckie said the future of nippers, cadets and patrols would all continue starting in September.
Markets and Sizzle will also continue as usual. However, Mr Leckie said these activities would need ongoing volunteer support.
“We are now looking at our options for upstairs, so watch this space,” he said.
“To all the Supporters Club Members, thank you for your support and patronage over the years. We are sorry that the end came so quick.”
