The 2019/20 patrolling season and 90th anniversary of the Surf Life Saving Mid North Coast (MNC) Branch was officially launched with the annual Raising of the Flags ceremony held at the South West Rocks Surf Life Saving Club last Saturday.
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The event commenced with a Welcome to Country performed by local Dunghutti elders Aunty Cheryl and Benelong from the South West Rocks Figtree Aboriginal Corporation.
SLSMNC President, Rod McDonagh, said: "I would like to thank all of the volunteers that year after year spend their weekends over summer keeping our beaches safe."
"The recent funding provided by the NSW State Government will enhance our operational capability. I wish all our Clubs and their members a safe and incident free summer."
Members from across the eight MNC Clubs; Macksville-Scotts Head, South West Rocks, Hat Head, Kempsey-Crescent Head, Port Macquarie, Tacking Point, Wauchope-Bonny Hills and Camden Haven, joined the Hon. Melinda Pavey, Minister for Water, Property and Housing, Councillor Sue McGinn from Kempsey Shire Council and Bob Higham from Newcastle Permanent to celebrate this annual event.
South West Rocks SLSC Vice-President and Life Member Anne Pearce was proud to have the event held at her local beach.
"It was great to see members from across the Mid North Coast attend my home beach to celebrate the start of another season," she said.
"We are celebrating our 100th season at South West Rocks and it has been a pleasure to host this ceremony."
SLSMNC Branch Director of Member Services Gary Hawkins expressed his well wishes for the coming season
"Let's hope for a safe and rewarding season for all patrolling members," Hawkins said.
"A reminder to the public, please swim between the red and yellow flags for your safety and the safety of our volunteer lifesavers."
The morning was completed with a christening of South West Rocks' newest IRB, sponsored by Ken and Kim Tassell from LJ Hooker, South West Rocks.
All local surf life saving clubs are currently taking memberships for all members and are facilitating Bronze Medallion and Surf Rescue Certificate courses.
Contact your local club for more details.
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