Record numbers attend Kids+ Surf Ed program

THE eighth annual Kids+ Surf Ed program has gone down as a huge success, with record numbers hitting the waves in Torquay.

More than 25 local children with disabilities were given the opportunity to improve confidence and skills in the water, learn about water safety and have fun at the beach.

Surf Ed was led by the Kids+ Therapy Team and aided by volunteer surf lifesavers from Jan Juc and Torquay as well as staff from Torquay Marine Rescue.

Kids+ physiotherapist Louise Daniels said there were so many magical moments this past week.

 

“One nine-year-old child from Barwon Heads paddled for, and caught her very first wave – a huge moment for her and her family.

“Torquay Marine Rescue took the children on jet ski rides, which is always so much fun. For some children, it is their first time on a beach, let alone seeing or riding a jet ski. It’s wonderful to witness!”

She said the compassion shown by the volunteer surf lifesavers was nothing short of exceptional.

“One volunteer, Leo, created an incredible wheelchair sand pump track, which was met with much excitement,” she added.

 

“Another volunteer, Isla, told of how she and her Kids+ buddy, Max, were hanging out, floating on their boards, playing a game of Would You Rather.

“Social interactions like this may seem commonplace to many families, but that is not always the reality for children with disabilities.”

“A huge thanks to Steve Jewson (JJSLSC), who has been instrumental not only in getting the partnership up and running, but in ensuring we have volunteers each year.”