Volunteer group shifts final disabled surfers event of the season to Lennox Head

THE Far North Coast branch of the Disabled Surfers Association of NSW will hold its final event of the

season at Lennox Head on Saturday, March 7, after relocating from Kingscliff.

The move will keep the event closer to the group’s trailer and equipment base, which is currently undergoing repairs.

Lennox Head also provides a central location for participants who missed out on the cancelled Yamba event in December.

It has been another busy season for the volunteer-run organisation, highlighted by a strong turnout at its recent Byron Bay event.

Branch secretary Teige O’Sullivan said the days were about creating memorable experiences for both participants and volunteers.

“For some of the participants it may be one of the few times they are able to visit the beach and access the ocean for an entire year,” O’Sullivan said.

“To get out there and not only get in the ocean, but also catch some waves is an amazing experience for them and that excitement and energy feeds through to the volunteers.

“The more volunteers we have, the more boards we can run so we are always on the lookout for people to help us out.”

The event caters for people of all ages and a wide range of disabilities, from autism to quadriplegia.

Participants range in age from as young as four to about 80 years old.

Each surfer requires between six and 10 volunteers, depending on their level of disability, with the group utilising four beach wheelchairs fitted with inflatable tyres to access the sand and surf.

“Even if people don’t want to actively participate and get in the water, they are welcome to come along for a chat and to socialise,” O’Sullivan said.

The not-for-profit relies on community donations and is aiming to secure a new van or trailer in time for next season.

They have been supported by Stone & Wood Brewing, The Ingrained Foundation and the World Surf League, which is running a board raffle to help raise funds for the trailer.

Raffle tickets and registration forms are available via the Disabled Surfers Association NSW Far North Coast Facebook page.