The event was opened by local MP Melinda Pavey and attended by architect Rachel Neeson in addition to Mayor Liz Campbell, life members and government representatives.

Functions co-ordinator Ross Foster said the surf club had already been beneficial to the community.

“It’s generated a lot of positive discussion in the community and with holiday-makers through its innovative design,” Mr Foster said. “The surf club is a tourist attraction in itself.”

Mr Foster said the new building allowed the club to generate revenue to support itself.

“We’re no longer dependent on raffles as we have this fantastic new venue,” Mr Foster said. “It’s getting more and more popular for functions – particularly weddings – and is a great revenue earner for us.”

The building, designed by architect Rachel Neeson of Neeson Murcott Architects in Sydney, won the Sulmon medal for best public building in NSW.

Mr Forster said he ‘never imagined’ the community would end up with such an ‘iconic’ surf club.

“We’re extremely happy with the building,” he said. “I get calls from builders and architects from Melbourne and Sydney wanting to come and study it.”

“It’s also a highly functional club house. The interior layout means equipment is more accessible in the event of a rescue.”

Mr Foster acknowledged Kempsey-Crescent Head life member Peter Drinkwater for initiating the grant application process.

“Peter had the original concept of applying for grants,” he said. “We’ve since received funding from the federal government and a couple of other grants, the latest being for the new toilet block, which was greatly needed.”

Mr Foster said the The Kempsey-Crescent Head Surf Life Saving Club is looking to attract more members.

“We want to expand our membership – particularly junior members in nippers,” he said. 

Nippers will begin on October 9 with registration day to be announced.