November 23, 2007

Budget Direct helping to train a new generation of surf lifesavers

Sunshine Coast beaches will soon become even safer, with more than 25 Kawana Waters State College students set to receive their patrol uniforms tomorrow, (Friday, November 23) after completing training for their bronze medallions with Kawana Waters Surf Club.

The tremendous success of the training program has already secured another 50 students for the beginning of next semester and helps to increase the club's membership numbers.

Contact Centre Director of Operations for Budget Direct, Gerry O'Shaughnessy, said he is proud that his company's sponsorship of the Kawana Surf Club helped ensure the success of this wonderful initiative.

"Budget Direct's sponsorship helped secure vital equipment needed to train this new generation of surf lifesavers," he said.

"We're very proud to be associated with the Kawana Waters Surf Club and this is a great example of how businesses and communities can work together to benefit all involved to build a stronger and safer community."

"Our new call centre is based on the Sunshine Coast and we have received wonderful support from the local community since its opening in September, so I am glad Budget Direct can give something back and say thank you," he said.

Mr O'Shaughnessy said Kawana Waters Surf Club has offered to show their appreciation to Budget Direct by providing "Surf Awareness and Resuscitation" training for their Kawana Contact Centre staff, involving the use of Kawana Waters State College Ambu Manikins.

"It should be a fun day for our staff, and you never know, the lessons they learn could one day save someone's life," he said.

"Our staff are very excited about the training day and I'm sure it will encourage some of them to consider becoming members of the club."