Are you interested in helping put ‘Smiles on Dials’ as part of the Disabled Surfers Association’s final event for the season at Clarke’s Beach in Byron Bay?
The ‘Let’s Go Surfing Day’ is on Saturday, March 17, and they are looking for volunteers, surfers or non-surfers, experienced or first timers, to help on the day.
‘The mission for the day is to put “Smiles on Dials” by taking disabled participants of all ages and all disabilities surfing in a fun, friendly and safe environment,’ said organiser Steve Keefe.
The Disabled Surfers Association of Australia Inc (DSA) was established by Gary Blaschke in 1986 and currently has 15 branches across Australia and New Zealand.
The Far North Coast Branch runs monthly events down the Far North Coast of NSW at Kingscliff, Byron Bay (generally two events within the season), Evans Head, Yamba and Minnie Waters between the months of October and March.
‘People with disabilities, the participants, get the opportunity to experience a unique, safe and happy surfing event, whilst under complete supervision from trained Team Leaders and Beach Marshalls,’ continued Steve.
‘People with disabilities just turn up on the day from 10am and sign in.’
Volunteers are required fro 9am for sign in and a briefing and as well as needing people in the water they need sign-on assistants, caterers, and anyone who wants to lend a hand.
‘Personally it is both rewarding and fulfilling to see the enjoyment on the faces of the participants and volunteers,’ said a smiling Steve.
‘The interaction between the participants and the volunteers is fantastic. Bonds and relationships are formed between returning participants and volunteers.
‘Volunteers get to share their passion and love for the ocean and surfing with those for whom ‘getting’ in the water’ isn’t to be taken for granted. It is a humbling and rewarding experience to enlarge someone else’s world as well as your own. Volunteers need to have a big heart and want to put smiles on dials.’
A free lunch will follow the surfing so get online and find out how to get involved at the DSA website or check out their Facbook page.
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