Whyalla Surf Lifesaving Club (WSLSC) Secretary Phil Zubrinich, President Annette Zubrinich, Axis Constructions Project Manager Brett McManus, Mayor Phill Stone, Whyalla City Council Manager Capital Works Delivery Les Jones, and WSLSC Captain Melissa Zubrinich are looking forward to the new Foreshore Building project getting underway.
Foreshore building contractor announced
23 October 2026
Yet another Whyalla foreshore project is set to come to life, with the lead contractor chosen for the new Foreshore Centre building.
Axis Constructions has been selected to deliver the project following a competitive tender process – chosen for their demonstrated experience, value for money and capability to smoothly deliver a high-quality facility.
The new building will be a centrepiece of the upgraded foreshore, sitting alongside the new Splash and Play Plaza, incorporating the Whyalla Surf Life Saving Club (WSLSC) and a modern, spacious café.
The upgrade has been made possible by $5 million in State Government funding via the South Australian Fire and Emergency Services Commission (SAFECOM); with Axis selected as the preferred contractor by a panel consisting of SAFECOM, Surf Life Saving South Australia, WSLSC and council representatives.
WSLSC President Annette Zubrinich said the new facility would allow the club to better deliver its community-focused programs, provide vital water safety education to beachgoers and the wider public, and strengthen its ability to train, develop and support the next generation of surf lifesavers, ensuring the club can continue to grow, serve the community and make a positive impact for years to come.
“We’re extremely excited to see the project get started. We would like to thank the State Government for their funding support and everyone involved in making this dream a reality,” Mrs Zubrinich said.
Mayor Phill Stone said the community would notice progress soon, with demolition of the existing building starting in November.
“Axis will be prioritising local contractors and suppliers as much as possible to maximise the cash injection for local businesses during the construction of this multi-million-dollar project,” Mayor Stone said.
“There’s a host of sub-contracting opportunities – incorporating everything from earthworks and electrical; to roadworks and construction – so I encourage all local businesses with the relevant capability to throw their hat in the ring and hopefully benefit from this major work.”
Premier Peter Malinauskas said he was looking forward to seeing a vibrant new Whyalla foreshore, made possible by funding from both the State and Federal Labor governments.
“We are doing all we can to ensure Whyalla is in the best possible position to seize the opportunities of the future, and this is yet another demonstration of our confidence and investment in Whyalla’s long-term future,” Mr Malinauskas said.
Whyalla Mayor Phill Stone with Premier Peter Malinauskas at the announcement of the State Government Funding.
Emergency Services Minister Rhiannon Pearce said the State Government was proud to continue to support the ongoing redevelopment of Surf Life Saving Clubs across SA, with this project particularly important to Whyalla.
“The redevelopment of the WSLSC building will ensure that front-line surf lifesavers are equipped with the essential tools needed to service the community, while its construction will also benefit the broader Whyalla economy during this difficult time,” Minister Pearce said.
Axis Constructions Project Manager Brett McManus said Axis was looking forward to working with local contractors to deliver a first-class facility for Whyalla.
“We have a focus on maximising the use of local experts and content, so have already begun engaging a number of local businesses to come onboard as key sub-contractors,” Mr McManus said.
“We’re committed to working with the community to creating a lasting legacy for the city, providing benefits not only during construction, but throughout the life of the facility.”
Axis has already begun initial conversations with several local contractors and suppliers and is encouraging others to register their interest in being involved in the project. Axis can be contacted by calling 8294 1134.
Demolition of the existing lifesaving building is expected to be completed prior to Christmas, followed by construction starting in January. The project is expected to be complete by the end of 2027.
Artist impression of the new Foreshore Building.