Surf Life Saving WA will be able to build a new heliport facility for the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service at Rous Head in Fremantle, thanks to a Lotterywest grant of $1,356,392 presented by Premier Colin Barnett today.

Mr Barnett said the grant would provide a much needed upgrade to current facilities.

“The current sea containers and demountable office will be transformed into a modern and efficient centre with a custom-made helicopter hangar and new office amenities,” he said.

“This will give Surf Life Saving WA a solid base from where it can better deploy its emergency services, improving response times.”

The new facility will not only provide improved long-term shelter for the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue helicopters, but it will also host a new communications tower and operating base for SurfCom – Surf Life Saving WA’s communications and emergency response hub.

“Both SurfCom and Surf Life Saving WA’s Aviation Services play a vital role in managing coastal safety in Western Australia and are an integral part of the State’s Emergency Management strategy,” the Premier said.

“With the State’s growing population, Surf Life Saving WA is always seeking new and improved ways to serve the community and these upgrades will support them in achieving this goal.”

Surf Life Saving WA has strong local support, with Fremantle Ports generously providing the site on a peppercorn lease agreement and neighbours AvWest Aviation, through the Roberts family, continue to provide considerable financial support.

The State Government has been a major supporter of surf life saving in Western Australia at both a club and State level for more than 25 years.

In 2013-14, Lotterywest raised $271.3million for beneficiaries including Western Australia’s hospitals, arts, and sport and recreational groups.

Lotterywest is the only lottery in Australia where proceeds are distributed directly to the community. For every dollar West Australians spend on their favourite Lotterywest games, 33 cents is returned to benefit the community.