There is a list of people excited about the completion of the new surf club at Mona Vale Beach, but none more so than President of the club Paula Tocquer. 

Ahead of the official opening this Saturday, we asked Paula a few questions about the new building.

What do you think of the new club?

The new club building is just amazing. This quality and the design is beautiful. So many locals have commented on how it fits into the surrounding landscape. It looks fantastic from the water.

The surf club is a building not only to keep the community safe but also as a place to meet, enjoy and gather. I am sure the Mona Vale community is excited to welcome our new cafe and restaurant families and enjoy supporting their businesses! I know I will.

How will this facility benefit the club and community?

The facilities from a lifesaving operational perspective will make a world of difference to our members during patrol.

The space and the layout are fit for purpose and the materials that it is built from mean it will last in the elements.

The new building will not only provide a space for the community to enjoy activities and get togethers but the new restaurant, I am sure, will be extremely popular.

What is your favourite thing about the new club?

My favourite thing about the building is the wood on the outside. Also, the ability to use operable walls between the different spaces to accommodate different uses of the areas.

What is the feeling among the clubbies with the opening being imminent?

Everyone is so excited! Whenever I see someone the first thing they say is "so when is the club ready?" I look forward to not having to answer that question very soon.

The new surf club include a cafe, restaurant, nippers’ facilities, storage for the local boardriders club, function space, a first aid room, family change and accessible adult change facilities. It also features improved accessibility with a particular focus on minimising environmental impacts, such as the use of solar panels and recycling rainwater.

Aboriginal art has also been incorporated into the design with shields in the columns outside the café and marine figures are carved into the seating structures around the site reflecting and celebrating Indigenous connection to Country.

Last year, we completed a new, modern beach amenities block at the southern end of the beach with a lifeguard observation room providing a 180-degree view of Mona Vale Beach and Basin Beach.

The project was made possible thanks to funding from the NSW Government, the surf club and Council.