Stockton Surf Life Saving Club has launched a new all-terrain vehicle for the 2026/27 beach patrol season following a $22,243 funding contribution from agricultural enterprise Cargill via its Cargill Cares program. Unveiled at Stockton Beach ahead of the active patrol period, the specialised off-road vehicle will transport volunteer lifesavers, first aid gear, and surveillance equipment along the coastline.

The equipment upgrade reduces response times and physical exertion for volunteer patrols moving across heavy sand terrain. The vehicle acquisition forms part of the club’s ongoing asset renewal program, supporting core surf rescue operations, preventive water safety surveillance, first aid, and community beach safety education across the Hunter coast.

The launch was attended by Cargill Newcastle facility EHS specialist Kate Austin, alongside Stockton Surf Life Saving Club President Jo Dryden, Treasurer Geoff McQueen, Director of Lifesaving Dina Mackay, and Patrol Captain Connor Johansen with his patrol team. Beyond emergency patrols, the club supports regional youth development through its Nippers program and formal lifesaving training courses.

President of Stockton Surf Life Saving Club, Jo Dryden stated that reliable equipment is vital for supporting volunteer lifesavers on the beach.

“Our lifesavers bring the training, commitment and teamwork needed to keep people safe, but they also need dependable equipment behind them,” Jo said.

“Cargill’s generous contribution puts an essential asset directly into service on Stockton Beach and makes a lasting difference to our club and the community.”

Treasurer of Stockton Surf Life Saving Club, Geoff McQueen added that corporate partnerships assist the non-profit organisation in meeting ongoing operational costs.

“Volunteer time is at the heart of surf lifesaving, but providing that service also requires ongoing investment in equipment, training and maintenance,” Geoff said.

“Support like this helps us meet those costs and gives a local business a tangible way to contribute to safer beaches. We are grateful to Cargill for recognising the value of that investment.”

IMAGE | Stockton Surf Life Saving Club Patrol Captain Connor Johansen and his patrol team join President Jo Dryden, Treasurer Geoff McQueen, Director of Lifesaving Dina Mackay and Cargill Newcastle facility EHS specialist Kate Austin at the launch of the club’s new ATV for the 2026/27 patrol season.