Member Wellbeing - Erin Close
The 2025/26 season has been an incredibly rewarding year for wellbeing at Woolamai Beach SLSC. One of the highlights was hosting Speak & Share for a dedicated mental health workshop with our members.
As shared following the event:
"Wow!!! What a fantastic morning. Thanks so much to Speak & Share for coming to Woolamai Beach SLSC and encouraging conversations around mental health. A massive thank you to the Victorian Government Sporting Club Grants Program 2024–2025 for making this day possible. We are so lucky to receive this grant that enabled us to provide our members with such important mental health training. We all learnt something and, despite being a very close-knit community, we still found ways to strengthen our connections with our peers. It was a great reminder that no matter how well we know someone, we can always initiate conversations to check in and support our mates. We are so grateful for this opportunity and hope to see you again soon."
This initiative reflected our ongoing commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive and connected club culture where members feel comfortable looking out for one another both on and off the beach.
I would like to extend a special thank you to our Member Protection Officer team — Nathan Bain, Emma Gallagher, Emily Ross and Rex Mynott. Their dedication, professionalism and willingness to support our members have been invaluable in fostering a safe and welcoming environment within our club. I am incredibly grateful for their support and the work they undertake behind the scenes to ensure the wellbeing of our members.
I would also like to extend my gratitude to my fellow Board members for their support, collaboration and friendship throughout my tenure. The passion and commitment shown by everyone involved in the club is truly inspiring.
As I prepare to move overseas for the next few years, I will be stepping down from my position (momentarily). While I am excited for the opportunities ahead, it is bittersweet to leave a club and community that holds such a special place in my heart.
I would like to extend my gratitude to our members and my fellow board members for their support, collaboration and friendship throughout my tenure. The passion and commitment shown by everyone involved in the club is truly inspiring.
