“These events and the support from the community really does bolster our capability.”
There was a need for the club to purchase new equipment, such as inflatable rescue boats which come at a cost of more than $20,000.
He said the club needed to replace two or three of its ageing inflatable rescue boats.
Rescue tubes cost up to $250 each.
“It’s like a car, you need to upgrade.
“Things are expensive, and we need to make sure our gear is refreshed and ready to go out on the beach.”
There are 30 lifeguards in Whanganui, ranging from ages 14 to 42.
“We’re really lucky in Whanganui to have a full contingent of paid lifeguards.
“Local companies are vying for these young people that have got skills, so paying lifeguards is important in order to retain them.”
Mitre 10 Mega Whanganui owner Hayden Gibson said being part of the partnership with NZME for a local charity was “pretty special”.
“For us, we always try and pick someone that can help Whanganui.
“Everyone in Whanganui has the opportunity to go and swim in the ocean, and so it’s really good to support a great cause that looks after everyone’s wellbeing.”
Eva de Jong is a reporter for the Whanganui Chronicle covering health stories and general news. She began as a reporter in 2023.
