More CGG cutbacks- this time it affects life savers

More CGG cutbacks - This time there's no lifeguard for Back Beach, one of Gero's most notorious beaches, during the school holidays.

"Very disappointed that after many years of having a paid lifeguard at the Back Beach during the Summer holidays, the CGG have decided not to have one this year.  The weekends and Public holidays  will still be patrolled by the Geraldton Surf Life Saving Club but week days there will be no one there.  I hope the cost cutting doesn't impact on someone's life." - Lisa Mardon

Response from the City of Greater Geraldton:

“The Council made it very clear to the City of Greater Geraldton Executive that large rate rises are unacceptable and continuing to the run the City in a deficit position is also not acceptable. As a result, the City has taken measures to reduce its annual operating expenses and reduce rate increases. The Council also wanted to ensure that there was equity between different sporting clubs and noted that the Champion Bay Surf Life Saving Club operates without any support from the City.

"Last year the Geraldton Surf Life Saving Club received $20,000 from the City and we will be working with them to apply for grant funding to assist with operating costs.

"The club also has the option of presenting a business case to City Council for the decision to be changed and they have been notified of this.  The business case will need to demonstrate the quantified impact the Council not paying the grant will have on the club, project financial statements and a demonstration of attempts to apply for alternate funding solutions.

"The City will be installing signage at Back Beach and Tarcoola Beach areas to communicate with beach goers about potential risks in the area.”