14 June 2016 Sharon Claydon MP today launched Hunter Surf Lifesaving Associations (HSLA) new rescue craft funded by a Newcastle Stronger Communities Grant of $6,864. The new jet ski will be based at HSLA headquarters and used to assist in rescue and training activities along the Newcastle coast.Ms Claydon highlighted the broad community benefit the new jet ski will bring. The Hunter Surf Lifesaving Association provides an invaluable service to our community with more than 70,000 hours of patrol on our beaches every season and hundreds of rescues. Tasked with the responsibility of saving lives on our beaches, surf lifesaving volunteers undertake extensive training to conduct water rescues throughout the year. Winter can be just as challenging as summer such is the dedication of our Hunter Surf Lifesavers. Im glad that I could put forward a project for funding that delivers such outstanding support and service to the Newcastle community. The Newcastle Stronger Communities Grants Program will see funding of up to $300,000 awarded to Newcastle community organisations across two rounds of funding. Other Round 1 Newcastle Stronger Communities Grant recipients include: Multicultural Neighbourhood Centre, Lambton refurbishment of community centre Hunter Academy of Sport new sporting equipment purchase for young athletes Newcastle Youth Orchestra new percussion equipment purchase for the orchestra Hippocrates Association - Community hall upgrade Lambton Jaffas Soccer Club installation of new lighting at Edden Oval Merewether Uniting Church Community Kitchen and study centre upgrade Hamilton Olympic Football Club Fitout of amenities block at Islington oval Hunter Wetlands Centre installation of new solar panels and electric vehicle charger Young Peoples Theatre Newcastle installation of new lighting bar. Round two projects are currently under assessment with grants to be awarded in the next Financial Year (2016/2017).