Volunteers powering community surf event at Kingscliff Beach

SURFERS of all abilities are riding waves and building connections at Kingscliff Beach, supported by a dedicated group of volunteers creating an unforgettable ocean experience.

And the Disabled Surfers Association is calling for more volunteers for its final event of the season at Kingscliff Beach on Saturday, March 8.

The group serves all types of disabilities and age groups, ranging from autism to quadriplegia.

Each participant requires anywhere from six to 10 volunteers, depending on the level of disability.

They are supported from the sand to the water and mainly ride broken waves.

The events are incredibly popular and have recently been held at Byron Bay and Lennox Head.

Far North Coast branch secretary Teige O’Sullivan said it is all about providing a fun experience for surfers 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 not-for-profit group relies on donations and is hoping to purchase a new van or trailer in time for next season.

The group uses four beach wheelchairs with inflatable tyres, with surfers ranging in age from as young as four to about 80 years old.

There will be a sign-on tent right near the carpark on the river at Faulks Park.

Surfing will start around 10am, with prizes and a free barbecue to follow with support from the Kingscliff Lions Club.

“The location is great as the bay is beautiful and nice and protected from some of the larger swells you get on the open beaches, which works well for us,” O’Sullivan said.

“It is also generally nice and shallow with no big drop-offs so access to the waves is not too difficult.

“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.”

Registration forms can be found on the Disabled Surfers Association NSW Far North Coast Facebook page.