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Byron Shire
June 10, 2026

The Disabled Surfers ‘Cooky Classic’ is on this weekend

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The Kingscliff DSA event attracts local and Gold Coast surfers and up to 100 volunteers. Photo Diana Willis
The Kingscliff DSA event attracts local and Gold Coast surfers and up to 100 volunteers. Photo Diana Willis

The Disabled Surfers Association is having their annual gathering at Kingscliff, ‘The Cocky Classic’, this Sunday January 29.

The event is named after Cocky Stannard, who led the DSA in the Kingscliff area for many years.

‘He was an old-time surfer  who died a few years ago but he did a great job for the DSA so we decided to name the event after him,’ DSA organiser John Mansfield said.

‘A big turnout of surfers is expected as they also come down from the Gold Coast. Their carers come with them but there is still a need for up to 100 volunteers on the day,’ John said.

‘We need water people, sign-on assistants, caterers, and anyone who wants to lend a hand with equipment,’ he said.

Participants are invited to attend at 10am for surfing, volunteers from 9am. Lunch will follow at 12pm.

Rash vests, suntan lotion and water are available and the event is free.

Don’t forget your swimmers, hat and towel.



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Mandy Nolan’s Soapbox: Let’s Disappear the Outrage Farmer

There’s super-offensive content making its way around the internet by someone who is NOT Indigenous and is NOT a comedian. I will not say her name. I will not identify her nor will I describe the content. If you think you know what I am talking about: good. And if you don’t: good. Let’s keep it that way.

Cartoon of the week – 10 June, 2026

The Echo loves your letters and is proud to provide a community forum on the issues that matter most to our readers and the people of the NSW north coast. So don’t be a passive reader, send us your epistles.