{"id":100776,"date":"2024-08-02T04:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-08-01T18:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/timesnewsgroup.com.au\/tweedcoasttimes\/?p=100776"},"modified":"2024-08-02T13:09:37","modified_gmt":"2024-08-02T03:09:37","slug":"surfers-take-on-the-make-a-wave-challenge-to-support-remote-communities","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/timesnewsgroup.com.au\/tweedcoasttimes\/news\/surfers-take-on-the-make-a-wave-challenge-to-support-remote-communities\/","title":{"rendered":"Surfers take on the Make A Wave challenge to support remote communities"},"content":{"rendered":"

SURFERS across the country and around the globe are gearing up for the Make A Wave challenge this September, surfing daily to raise funds for SurfAid’s vital programs.<\/p>\n

This year, many locals are paddling out, including members of Surf Sisters Byron Bay, who are jumping in with enthusiasm.<\/p>\n

Founding member Kylie Martin said she was excited about the challenge.<\/p>\n

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Make A Wave participant Daisy Roberts. Photo: DAVID COPE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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“We participate every year to support women and children in remote communities in Indonesia,” she said.<\/p>\n

“It’s a great way to connect our community, motivate each other, and set personal goals.”<\/p>\n

Martin highlighted the physical and mental benefits the challenge offers.<\/p>\n

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Make A Wave participant Liah Herzer. Photo: DAVID COPE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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“Surfing every day for 30 days improved our surfing skills, mental strength, and overall well-being,” she said.<\/p>\n

“Even on rough days, we pushed through together, making it a fun and rewarding experience.”<\/p>\n

The Make A Wave challenge encourages surfers to hit the waves daily throughout September, raising funds to provide healthcare, clean water, and food security in isolated surf regions.<\/p>\n

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Abigail Browne, Liah Herzer, Kylie Martin, Laura Rizzi, and Daisy Roberts. Photo: DAVID COPE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Since its inception in 2021, the challenge has united surfers from 28 countries, raising nearly $2 million.<\/p>\n

SurfAid CEO Doug Lees said the organization hoped to harness the transformative power of surfing to support those who need it most.<\/p>\n

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Surf Sisters founder Kylie Martin. Photo: DAVID COPE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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“With the unwavering dedication of our global surfing community, we’re set to achieve an even greater impact,” Lees said.<\/p>\n

“Together, we can ensure that families in remote surf communities have access to essential services like healthcare, nutritious food, and clean water.”<\/p>\n

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Make A Wave participant Laura Rizzi. Photo: DAVID COPE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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The Surf Sisters group, which Martin founded in 2020, has grown to nearly 3,000 members, providing a supportive community for women surfers in Byron Bay.<\/p>\n

“Our meetups are about motivation, community, and connection,” Martin said. “It’s what women want when they move to Byron.”<\/p>\n

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Laura Rizzi, Daisy Roberts, Kylie Martin, Liah Herzer, and Abigail Browne. Photo: DAVID COPE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Last year, the Surf Sisters raised $3,700 for the Make A Wave challenge.<\/p>\n

“The community support has been incredible. This year, we’re aiming for $4,000.”<\/p>\n

Participants will receive fundraising tips, coaching, and opportunities to share their surf adventures on social media.<\/p>\n

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Surfing sisters make waves for a cause. Laura Rizzi, Liah Herzer, Kylie Martin, Abigail Browne, and Daisy Roberts. Photo: DAVID COPE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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“It’s about getting out there, whether it’s for three hours or just ten minutes,” Martin said.<\/p>\n

“The key is consistency and enjoying the ocean every day.”<\/p>\n

Martin offered advice for those considering the challenge.<\/p>\n

“Set aside some time each day for a surf, even if it’s just a quick paddle,” she suggested.<\/p>\n

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Make A Wave participant Ash Keillah. Photo: DAVID COPE<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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“Having a teammate can help with motivation. Remember, it’s for a great cause, and think about the impact you’re making.”<\/p>\n

The Make A Wave challenge runs from September 1 to 30.<\/p>\n

Surfers of all ages and skill levels are invited to join, whether individually or as part of a team. For more information and to sign up, visit makeawave.co<\/a><\/p>\n