Forster Surf Life Saving Club
Location
Forster NSW
Webber led the redevelopment of the Forster Surf Life Saving Club, reimagining a vital piece of community infrastructure as both a functional lifesaving facility and a civic landmark. Located on Forster’s beachfront, the new building balances coastal resilience with contemporary design, expressing values of safety, accessibility, inclusivity and sustainability.
The facility provides a safe and efficient operational base for volunteer lifesavers while also serving as a community venue. At ground level, improved access, amenities and secure storage ensure readiness for patrols and public safety. The upper floor accommodates a multipurpose hall, commercial kitchen, bar and breakout spaces, with an ocean-facing balcony offering panoramic views for events, weddings and community gatherings.
Architecturally, the building responds to its coastal setting with a strong horizontal roofline, projecting eaves and stepped massing that integrate with the dunes. Materials were selected for durability and low maintenance, including exposed concrete, robust cladding and glazed balustrades that preserve views to the ocean. Passive design strategies maximise ventilation, daylight and shading, while sustainable systems such as rainwater harvesting and efficient lighting reduce environmental impact.
The result is a future-ready facility that strengthens Forster’s identity, supports lifesavers in protecting the community, and provides flexible, welcoming spaces for social and cultural life.
Photography: AW Edwards