No lifesavers for Shelly Beach

CLOSED: Shelly Beach won’t be patrolled this summer because of the erosion caused by the May storm. Pictured is Ballina Lighthouse and Lismore Surf Life Saving Club vice-president Ron Shepherd and club captain Paul Shepherd.

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BALLINA'S Shelly Beach will not be patrolled this summer because of the erosion caused by the May storms that lashed the coast.

President of the Ballina Lighthouse and Lismore Surf Life Saving Club, Kris Beavis, confirmed the decision, which was made in conjunction with Ballina Shire Council.

He said the club would be returning 'home' to Lighthouse Beach for 2009/2010, and the lifesaving equipment would be stored in containers at what was once the main beach in town.

He said the coffee rock and pipe at the bottom of the ramp leading on to the southern end of Shelly Beach that was exposed by the storms created access issues for the public and lifesavers.

He also said the surf conditions had changed considerably because of the changes to the landscape of the beach.

He advised locals to swim at Lighthouse Beach during summer.

Ron Shepherd, a lifesaver with the club for 60 years, said the erosion in May was the worst he had seen at Shelly Beach, with a gutter formed at the southern end of the beach.

Meanwhile, Ballina Shire Council has lodged a development application to build the long-awaited new clubhouse at Lighthouse Beach.

The clubhouse will be sited roughly at the intersection of Compton Drive and Lighthouse Parade, with Compton Drive redirected to the north.

Mr Beavis said the lodgement of the DA was a major milestone in the club's history.

He said consultation for the new building has taken place over the past two years.