The funds will be added to SLSA’s Major Gift Appeal, which was launched
earlier this year, seeking to raise $20m to establish a financial
legacy to meet the ongoing needs of the organisation.
"Going to the beach is a way of life for millions of Australians – our country is blessed with some of the finest coastline in the world," says Hartigan.
"Surf Life Saving Australia provides a vital service, protecting our beaches and saving countless lives.
"It is fitting that in their centenary year, we come together to secure the organisation’s future. It will ensure future generations can benefit from their tireless efforts.
"I am delighted to announce News Limited’s $1m donation and hope that it inspires others to support one of our country’s finest institutions,” Hartigan concludes.
News Limited group general manager for editorial, Steve Howard, presented the cheque to President of SLSA, Ron Rankin AM at the Aussies 2007 Australian Surf Life Saving Championships, in Perth today.
Rankin welcomes the donation and stresses the importance of financial viability to ensure the future of the surf lifesaving movement: "Surf lifesavers have been keeping the country’s beaches safe for almost one hundred years, and many people assume that they will keep doing so for the next century.
"However, the costs of providing beach and water safety services continue to outstrip our ability to raise funds, which is why we are so grateful for News Limited’s very generous donation. It will go a long way towards helping secure our future.
"It would be wonderful if every Australian would contribute to the fundraising activities being undertaken during the course of the Year of the Surf Lifesaver," he concludes.
News Limited mastheads are the official newspapers for the Year of the Surf Lifesaver, offering significant editorial and advertising support throughout the year and generating additional donations through fund-raising activities across Australia.
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