Media release
14 September 2009

Surf Life Saving Taranaki hits the road thanks to The Lion Foundation

Surf Life Saving (SLS) Taranaki has received a boost with a new vehicle funded by The Lion Foundation.

A recent $20,000 grant from the charitable trust has enabled SLS Taranaki to purchase the vehicle which assists with transporting resources for the organisation’s Beach Education programme, which over 3,500 Taranaki children participate in each year.

Sue McMaster, SLS Taranaki District Manager says the vehicle enables the District to keep costs down and operate in an even more time efficient manner.

“The surf life saving season kicks off soon and thanks to the generosity of The Lion Foundation we now have a fabulous new fully operational vehicle. This will support the delivery of our Beach Education programme by helping with the transport of facilitators and equipment.”

This programme provides beach education to 5-13 year old children in schools, assisting in lowering the numbers who get into difficulty at the beaches. Its unique practical and theory based approach includes learning the role of a Surf Lifeguard, instruction on weather, rips and waves and physical beach and water activities.

Ms McMaster adds: “Beach Education is supported and encouraged by local schools and the wider community, and we are very grateful for The Lion Foundation’s assistance.”

Operating for over 20 years and one of the country’s most widely respected charitable trusts, The Lion Foundation is proud to encourage the enjoyment and skill of various sporting activities by distributing back to the local community the funds raised through its gaming venues, Breakers Taranaki and Cinema Express Café& Bar.

“Surf Life Saving Taranaki fulfils a community need by providing an enjoyable and physical activity for children, as well as teaching them vital information about keeping safe on New Zealand’s beaches,” says The Lion Foundation Chief Executive Phil Holden.

“We are proud to support the clubs, the members and the important community service being provided.”

The Lion Foundation funds a wide range of arts, cultural, sporting, educational and health focused causes. This approach has been in place for many years and is designed to ensure the charitable trust’s support reaches as many New Zealand communities as possible.

ENDS

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