Our approach was for a building that echoes the rugged beauty of its coastal surroundings, is inclusive of the local community and the diversity of user groups, removes pinch points and improves connectivity with existing paths and stairs, and enhances lifesaving activities and beach safety.

The design includes a Life Saving Clubhouse with publicly accessible viewing promenade and cafe with sweeping views to the north. The elevated public concourse alleviates congestion along the ground level promenade, creates a logical connection to the Reddall St stairs and provides the club and community with a shared space that all can enjoy. The raised concourse level also serves to connect the function hall and club training room with the lower promenade via a generous central stair.

The cafe, function hall and training room are housed in timber clad pavilions designed to break down the bulk of the building, weathering over time and receding against the backdrop of the existing sandstone cliff. The pavilions rest on a brick podium that accommodates dedicated club storage and amenities, a club gym, public showers, kiosk and club merch shop, activating the lower concourse frontage.

A separate brick clad Life Guard Pavilion and subterranean Public Amenities are located further north of the clubhouse. This plays host to patrol facilities for council lifeguards, first aid and accessible toilets. A semi-sunken forecourt provides outdoor showers and family change facilities, while a lower level tucked beneath the promenade hosts public amenities, maximising benefit to the public while minimising bulk and view loss to nearby residents and businesses.