Liberal Senator for Tasmania David Bushby said the Federal Government is providing an additional $5000 funding to lifesaving clubs and water safety organisations around the country.

“As many of us head to beaches, rivers and lakes or dams at this time of year, we are reminded that water safety is of paramount importance,” Senator Bushby said.

“Life Saving Clubs provide a critically important service to our communities, so I am delighted to see additional funds provided to assist them with their work.

“These new funds will enable the clubs to buy additional rescue equipment, as well as first aid and medical supplies.”

The Launceston Life Saving Club will also be receiving the additional funding.

“Launceston LSC recently had the engine from one of its rescue boats stolen – a telling example of the many costs, often unexpected, that our local not-for-profit organisations have to bear in order to keep us safe,” he said.

The Federal Government’s ‘Reduce Drownings’ initiative began in 2013-2014, which provided a funding boost of $15 million in total to Surf Life Saving Australia, the Royal Life Saving Society, AUSTSWIM, and surf life saving clubs across the country.