Lennox Head surfer named athlete of the year

A LENNOX Head surfer has been named the North Coast Academy of Sport’s athlete of 2024 after a standout year in competition.

Fifteen-year-old Ocea Curtis received the Darrel Chapman Memorial – NCAS Athlete of the Year award and the Indigenous Athlete of the Year award.

She represented Australia at the International Surfing Association World Junior Championships in El Salvador, where the Australian team won.

The academy’s awards night also celebrated the achievements of athletes, coaches, and staff for their sportsmanship, leadership, and personal growth.

Coach of the Year was awarded to Cass Notley for her leadership and development of athletes.

Charlie Ford and Koen Loader were recognised as Leaders of the Year, while the Chairman’s Encouragement Award went to skateboarder Ella Ledingham for her potential in the sport.

North Coast Academy of Sport executive director D’Arcy Van den Bossch said their athletes, coaches and managers could be proud of their efforts this year.

“We celebrate not only their success in competition but their growth as leaders and individuals,” Van den Bossch said.

“We are proud to support the North Coast’s next generation of athletes, and our programs continue to grow stronger each year. We can’t wait to meet our next sporting and community champions.”

Stewart Brawley, Nikki Greenwood, and Peter “Cuz” Kirkwood were named life members of the academy for their contributions to sport in the North Coast region.

Academy chairman, Dr Greg Downes, praised the recipients for their impact on local sport.

“The dedication of our life members has shaped the academy into what it is today.

Their years of service, guidance, and passion have left an indelible mark on NCAS, and it is our privilege to recognise their contributions.”