Handing over the reins

Outgoing president David Pavia (left) congratulates new club president Chris Paterson at the Ocean Grove SLSC annual general meeting. Story and picture: Mark Heenan Media

Incoming Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club president Chris Paterson took over the reins from the outgoing David Pavia who stood down at the club’s annual general meeting.

Mr Pavia spent three years as club president and oversaw Ocean Grove SLSC’s new building move into the state-of-the-art refurbished surrounds at Surf Beach Road after a complex building redevelopment which commenced in early 2018.

Mr Pavia said he was proud with what had been achieved in his time as president with delivery of tje new clubrooms and record numbers at the club now closing in on 1000 members.

He confirmed he would stand down from the role after its new clubhouse opened recently.

“After 12 years on the committee of management, and three years as president, it is time to step down as president,” he told OGSLSC members in a statement.

“I am proud of what has been achieved with the successful delivery of the new clubrooms and record numbers of patrol and sport participants which is a testament to the strength of OGSLSC.”

Mr Paterson paid tribute to Mr Pavia’s tireless work for the Ocean Grove SLSC and the wider community.

Mr Pavia will continue to stay involved as an active member of club and will remain on the club’s building sub-committee.

“David has not only worked tirelessly as club president over the past three years but also as a member of the building sub-committee, the constitution committee and the new building operations club committee,” Mr Paterson told the Voice.

“He has played a vital role in helping secure sponsorship for the new building and worked alongside Steve Peatling, Jeff Newton and myself to (help) deliver the new Surf Beach Complex.

“Over his twelve years he has also held the positions of club secretary, club treasurer and junior activities manager.”

MEANTIME Mr Paterson who became an Ocean Grove SLSC life member in 2015, returns as club president for a second time after his first stint for four years in 2012.

“I have had the pleasure of being a member since 1978 and have seen enormous growth in the club and the town since then,” he said.

“I was also extremely proud to be presented life membership in 2015, joining the other twenty life members presented over the clubs seventy odd year history.”