Lifesavers splash out on centenary

Few clubs last to celebrate a centenary, but the City of Bunbury Surf Lifesaving Club is a shining exception.

After being formed during World War I and surviving continuously at its home along Back Beach, the club will honour its 100 years with a weekend of celebrations and a book launch.

Bunbury has the second oldest surf lifesaving club in the State after Cottesloe and the club's director of surf sports Denise Duncan attributes its longevity to the club being welcoming.

"We have a vibrant family culture with mums and dads together, kids, cousins and everyone sharing that culture and mateship," she said.

Duncan is also a member of the club's book committee, who have spent the past four years preparing A Watch on the Waves, a hard-cover book on the club's history.

"It's been a long four-year process with a committee of up to eight at any given stage," she said.

"It's not actually a factual history, more the memories and stories of members giving an insight into club life, both past and present."

The club's history has been diverse, dating back to its founding years during war.

"Women kept the club alive during the war even though they couldn't be members," she said.

Duncan, who has been involved with the club for nearly 20 years, said being named as Surf Lifesaving Australia's club of the year in 2011 was a highlight and great recognition for 90-odd years of serving the community. The events begin with a book launch from 6.30pm on Friday at the club, which is open to the public.

A gala dinner will be held on Saturday night. A Sunday breakfast at the club will also take place to allow former members to see how the club now works.

Duncan expects up to 1000 people to be involved in the celebrations.