A new partnership has been formed to help protect and preserve some of Australia’s most important and iconic buildings from some of the world’s harshest weather conditions.

Dulux Australia will donate up to one million dollars worth of its tough Weathershield exterior paint to protect every surf life saving club for the next generation of beach goers.

“Surf life saving clubs sit on some of the most exposed coastline in Australia and as a patrolling surf lifesaver I’ve witnessed the severe impact harsh Australian weather has on our clubs. The partnership with Dulux will breathe new life into surf life saving clubs to preserve these vitally important buildings for the next generation,” said Surf Life Saving Australia President Graham Ford.

During the 2010-11 season, Australian surf lifesavers completed over 12,000 rescues. Through the support of Dulux, clubs will receive urgent care at no cost, protecting the buildings that house volunteers and invaluable equipment to patrol Australian beaches.

“Surf Life Saving Australia applauds such a valuable and worthwhile initiative as it frees critical funds to be directed to training and equipment resources,” said Graham.

A recent report found that the total estimated economic value of Surf Life Saving’s coastal and injury prevention efforts to Australia is $3.6 billion. Dulux approached Surf Life Saving Australia to provide support for the 310 surf life saving clubs and 158,800 members around the country.

Beaches are Australia’s largest playground and host more than 100 million visitations every year.