Queenscliff Surf Life Saving Club
- Description Refurbishment
- Location Manly
- Sector Community
- Sub-Sector Community, Cultural, Lifestyle, Wellness
- Specialties Refurbishment, Live Environment, Heritage
- Contract Type Fixed Lump Sum, GC21
- Delivery Method Construct Only
- Client Northern Beaches Council
- Architect Wayne McPee Design
- Photographer Paramount Studios
The upgrades at Queenscliff Surf Life Saving Club were undertaken to provide the community, volunteers and club members with modern, functional and accessible facilities that support lifesaving operations and create a welcoming place for training, events and social connection. The works formed part of the Club’s long‑term Master Plan and were supported by Federal, State and Council funding, reflecting the importance of the Club’s role in keeping the community safe.
Construction took place in a highly constrained beachfront environment, with the Club remaining operational throughout. The site’s location on the busy Manly promenade required careful traffic management, controlled delivery windows, clear pedestrian separation and ongoing coordination with Council. Additional challenges included working within a heritage‑listed building, managing coastal conditions and ensuring public safety along a major pedestrian and cycling route.
Key design elements included the construction of an off‑form concrete staircase and landing, new fire stairs, a mezzanine floor, and a balcony and awning to support the Club’s new function space. Internally, the building was refurbished to incorporate a gymnasium, board training room, administration offices, accessible amenities and a commercial kitchen. All fire and safety systems were upgraded, including a new main switchboard, switch room, emergency lighting, smoke detection and an Emergency Warning and Intercommunication System (EWIS) system. External works were completed in accordance with the original heritage design, with careful selection of coastal‑appropriate materials and a detailed Dulux paint specification.
The scope also involved supporting Council to develop a compliant services strategy for future bar facilities, and completing the design originally prepared in 2010 to ensure alignment with current Club requirements and National Construction Code standards. The completed facility now offers a more accessible, functional and community‑focused home for the Club’s 1,300 members and volunteers.
Opening Ceremony
Mayor Michael Regan, Northern Beaches with Garry Fox, President, Queenscliff Surf Life Saving Club and Steve Pearce, CEO, Surf Life Saving NSW officially opening the club.
Photography: Karen Watson