Ladies, frock up

Local women will converge for another afternoon of great conversation and good food at the popular Ladies Lunch on Saturday, 9 April.

The concept was launched in October 2009 as a way for local women to engage in great company and have a fun time. That first lunch attracted 105 women, with 110 attending the second event in May 2010.

Peregian Beach Surf Life Saving Club social committee member Sandra Kelly said the first two events were purely for club members to connect with local lady friends and widen the club’s friendship circle.

This time, the club will also support Jupiter’s Summer Surf Girl entrant Amy McGrath (see below).

“We wanted to show Amy our support by offering to host this event towards her fundraising efforts, as she is the club’s first ever Surf Girl entrant,” said Sandra.

“A great community has no boundaries and is inclusive and welcoming to all, so feel free to ask other friends and family to join us in sharing and enjoying each other’s company.”

There is also a major raffle which offers a multitude of gift vouchers donated by businesses at Peregian Beach.

“With so many prizes offered in support of this event, it shows the true spirit of generosity from our local businesses and once again highlights what a wonderful community this is to live in,” said Sandra.

“And ladies, frock up!”

Jupiter’s Summer Surf Girl entrant

Twenty-five-year-old Amy McGrath has spent the last four months raising much-needed funds for Peregian Beach Surf Life Saving Club, as well as raising surf safety awareness in the community.

“I hope to raise the club’s profile and ensure that people are aware of the vital role volunteers play in keeping beach-goers safe,” she said.

Amy has been with the Peregian Beach club for two seasons, but has been involved in lifesaving in other clubs for more than 10 years. She has been a Health and Physical Education teacher at Coolum State High School for the past three years.

“It’s a great opportunity to give back to a movement that has given me so much over the years, as well as meet new people as I only moved to the area two years ago. It’s also a good way to get some new gear for the club, as well as educate our community on the importance of keeping us volunteer lifesavers on the beach.”

Amy said the fundraising would help buy new training equipment for the club’s members, such as new boards, as well as gear for the nippers and cadets. “They are the future of the club and if we don’t retain them we have no future patrolling members.”

The final judging for the Jupiter’s Summer Surf girl competition will be held on the Gold Coast in May.

What: Ladies Lunch

When: Saturday, 9 April at 12pm

Where: Peregian Beach Surf Lifesaving Club, Kingfisher Drive. Courtesy bus available after the lunch.

Cost: $35 (includes a two-course meal, a glass of bubbly, beer or wine on entry and tickets to the lucky door prizes)

Bookings: 5448 1728. Vegetarians please advise when booking.

Photo: Jupiter's Summer Surf Girl entrant Amy McGrath (second from left) with Peregian Beach Surf Life Saving Club social committee members Sandra Kelly, Samantha O'Rielley and Paula Reed.