Photo Jeff Dawson
Who better to open Surfing Australia’s High Performance Centre at Casuarina last week than old longboarder Wayne Swan?
The deputy PM jumped at the task and was joined for the occasion by local MP Justine Elliot and veteran Aussie surfer Layne Beachley.
Ms Elliot said the training facility has become a reality because of a $2 million federal government grant, a $1.2 million freehold title gifted by Consolidated Properties, and ‘the hard work and vision of Surfing Australia’.
‘Australia is one of the most successful surfing nations and investments like this will help maintain that legacy,’ said Ms Elliot. The facility features a surf-specific gym, auditorium, offices, testing and treatment room and accommodation for sixteen people. The centre will also conduct specialised programs designed for women, Indigenous Australians and disabled surfers.
