Smiles and waves

There were plenty of smiles as participants had a rare chance to enjoy the surf.

This is the third year the Jan Juc Surf Life Saving Club has helped run the program, even though this year they had to move location due to their clubhouse’s reconstruction.

There were 15 people from the club who lent their time for the day, ranging from 12 to 60.

Lifesaving Skills development manager and former club president Steve Jewson said he was pleased the club could help run the event.

“We provide all the logistics and infrastructure to help get them (The Kids Plus Foundation children and staff) out in the water, and then we’re guided by them on how we can help.

“We don’t just patrol the beaches; we provide access to other community groups and people donating their time as well.”

Torquay Anglers Club vacated the beach ramp to ensure the Kids Plus Foundation could easily get their equipment onto Fishermans Beach.

The Torquay Marine Rescue Service (TMRS) also contributed, using jetskis to help tow some of the boards.

Mr Jewson said it was encouraging that other groups were eager to assist.

“This is their second year. We approached them and said ‘would you help out to give the kids a different experience?’ and they were keen as mustard to jump on board and help as well.”

Jan Juc SLSC had also received a $1,500 grant from Surf Life Saving Australia to help them continue their support for the program. This allowed for the purchase of extra equipment such as body boards and crawling tunnels.

The event is run as part of the Kids Plus Foundation’s Summer Physiotherapy Group.