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"DISABLED SURFERS RIP IT UP AT THIRROUL"

T he South Coast Branch, 17th Annual Disabled Surfers event last Saturday was a brilliant success with 41 disabled participants and 138 volunteer helpers and carers turning out for a brilliant yet challenging day at Thirroul Beach.

Huey, the Disabled Surfers’ Wave God, placated by the traditional sacrificial burnt offerings of wax and body boards, again provided great weather but challenging waves for the event.

For those who came in late, Disabled Surfers’ events are open to anyone who has a disability preventing them from otherwise enjoying what the rest of us take for granted – the opportunity to enjoy the region’s greatest treasure – the beach and its waves. All disability challenges are catered for, both physical and mental.

The DSA’s mission is simply to put “smiles on dials - SAFELY”.

The DSAA is a totally voluntary surfing charity, operating for the past 23 years, now comprised of 14 branches in all Australian mainland states, with Victoria (Barwon Heads) and NZ being the most recent new branches.
But back to Thirroul, with only 2 boards operating for most of the time, due to the challenging conditions, this ensured there was always a minimum of 20 helpers per participant.

The wetsuit clad participants, some in ‘SurfSocks’ (a DSA invention) each surfed 3 waves per rotation. Those waiting their turn, took part in the hotly contested sand modelling and toss the sandbag competitions.
At the end of 2 & 1/2 hours of surfing and paddling, the whole group retired to the food marquees to enjoy a hot 4-course meal, with hot chocolate being most popular drink of the day.

At the prize giving ceremony, all the participants were awarded a medallion for their fine efforts with the individual awards going to:

Single Paddle Race (in the Thirroul Pool) was taken out by an enthusiastic Sebastion McIntosh and is most probably still paddling.

Best Novice Surfer was Barbara Miller, who had not surfed before and never stopped smiling the whole day.

Toss the Sandbag (new this year) was taken out by a determined Rebecca Schmidt.

Wave of the Day went to popular Marie Jurinova, who finished a long ride with a small floater.

Best Wipeout was a tie between Michael Seky and Jordan Willis with a couple of 5 second hold-downs.

Longest Tube Ride John Williamson won with a 4 second barrel.

Most Inspirational Taylor O’Sullivan, who got out there and ripped in the heavy conditions, with the help of 20 of the volunteers.

Best Surfer of the Day unanimously went to Hayley Slocombe, who despite her paraplegia, really carved.

In closing the event, South Coast branch president Ian Picton thanked his South Coast Disabled Surfers committee, Wollongong City Council, the contributing surf shops for the give-aways, all the volunteer helpers and carers, including students from local schools, and particularly the participants for braving the conditions.

Mr Picton said: “The extra marquees this year were bought with ongoing donations from community groups and businesses of the region. With our new enclosed trailer, we have nearly all the gear required for any exigency since we often operate in open spaces such as here at Thirroul”, said Mr Picton.
“We might see some of you next year at Collaroy on Saturday 27th February or at Gerroa on Sunday 21st March”, he concluded.
ENDS

For verification or more information please contact Jim Bradley on 0458690455 or 42377297

This Christmas you can support the DSA by purchasing

your Christmas Cards on-line from "Gifts with Meaning"

Christmas Cards of which $1 per card sold will be donated to the DSA.

 

10 Christmas cards, blue set

In addition to provide a happy thought for the receiver each Christmas card also represents $1 donation to a charity of your choice. (DSA)

The cards are designed by Jodie Catherine.

Each package contains a total of 10 cards, 5 of each design. All cards are designed and printed in Australia on certified recycled paper for the benefit of the environment.

Postage is included on deliveries to addresses in Australia.

 

10 Christmas cards, red set

In addition to provide a happy thought for the receiver each Christmas card also represents $1 donation to a charity of your choice. (DSA)

The cards are designed by Jodie Catherine.

Each package contains a total of 10 cards, 5 of each design. All cards are designed and printed in Australia on certified recycled paper for the benefit of the environment.

Postage is included on deliveries to addresses in Australia.

Click on the above Card Picture or Click Here

Click on the above Card Picture or Click Here

"Jason Parkinson"

A Long Term DSA Family Member and President of the "Hunter Region"

has recently passed away after a long term illness

Jason's Funeral will be held:

Date: Wednesday 4th November 2009.

Time: 11:30am

Venue: Pettigrew Family Funerals

Harris Street, Wallsend.

Further Details Contact Gary 0424 890 455

Jason's Ashes return home. Huey will look after him!!!...Click Here

Jason's Family: You Are In Our Thoughts & Prayers.
Please Accept Our Heartfelt Condolences.

1

5th - 8th November, 2009

ALL Proceeds go to the only surfing charity (DSA)

Saturday 7th - DSA stall on Beach

Sunday 8th - Disabled Surfing Demos & Stall

More details on the Festival Click Here

.

Mid North Coast - Coffs Harbour

Saturday 24 October, 2009.

Saturday October 24 saw the opening of the 3rd summer of surfing for the disabled on the mid north coast. With yet another day of brilliant sunshine unfortunately the DSA were met with not a hint of surf at Jetty Beach, so in a logistical exercise executed with military precision the volunteers and participants headed over to north wall beach. The move was justified early with the team greeted by perfect 1-2 foot crystal waves, protected from the southerly which had blown up.

Stand-up Dave showed his keenness by arriving 45 minutes early wet-suited up and ready to surf. His infectious personality left the volunteers in stitches as he grabbed plenty of waves in his early session. Veteran and novice participants all got involved early, with Ryan and Bree progressing from lying down to actually standing on a couple of waves - not sure if the helpers or surfers were more stoked! Regular Jordan went out the back and surfed with a few of the boys, taking some stand-ups through to the beach.

New girl Gabby captured everyone's heart showing plenty of spirit in her first ever surf. Getting her out of the water after the session proved difficult, and she backed up an hour later with a few more waves. She's well and truly hooked. Our branch pin-up girl Kate excelled in front of a huge fan-club with personal photographer in tow - she's never missed a DSA day yet. She showed just how far she's come by surfing without the assistance of floats for the first time - a huge effort! Inspirational Louisa and Amelia, both wheel-chair bound with substantial physical impairments, got amongst it with Amelia copping her first wipe-out and still coming up smiling.

Louisa was absolutely stoked after her first ever surf. Young Jordie and 'veterans' Kent, Nicholas and Lainie made the most of the flawless conditions and bagged their fair share of waves too.

 

After an amazing morning of surfing the surfers, their carers and 70+ volunteers headed back over to the Yacht Club for a well earned BBQ and awards presentation. It's hard to decide who gets more out of these days - the helpers or the surfers!

The next event will be held at Woolgoolga Main Beach (near the VRO hall) on Sunday 15 November. Volunteers from the local surf scene and community are required to make these days a success so please get down and help from 9am.

For further inquiries, or to view the pictures from this event, check out dsapics.surfershelpingsurfers or contact Mid North Coast president Chris Allen on 0437274474.

HASTINGS HAPPENINGS

My heart skipped a beat and I began to shake nervously as a cold wet hand slid slowly up my back coming to rest uncomfortably on my shoulder. I turned quickly ready to repell any further unwanted advances, much like a time in a seedy inner city bar. However I didn’t need to worry it was only “The Grey Ghost”, Hudo drawing attention to the fact that the DSA Train the Helper course was about to begin. I breathed a sigh of relief.

We had about 40 people attend on a particularly beautiful day at Flynns Beach in sunny Port Macquarie. Dianna, Daffy and Big Jim, trainers from the National Branch, put a variety of Helpers through their paces.  It was a great combination of new and old, surfers and non-surfers. The Crew embraced the training with the same enthusiasm  as “Roughie” does a freshly opened beer. Sensational!

There was no hesitation in the water either, everyone was really involved. Our Branch will benefit from the experience of the Surfers in the group whilst the non-surfers were gaining valuable confidence and experience.

Our Surf participants had some great rides as the surf was ideal for boardriding. Our Monthly Hands-On Days are held on the third Sunday of each month at Flynns Beach beginning at 10 am . We commence in October and wind up in May next year, naturally everyone is welcome to a Hands-On Day.

Of course we thanks all our sponsors for their continued support of our Branch without whom we would not be able to operate …… Thank You! In addition we can’t stress enough the importance of being Sun Safe at all outdoor events particularly the Beach as sun cancer can be prevented.

Keep on charging the Big Ones and thanks again to Dianna, Daffy and Jim for conducting the Helpers Training.

Cya out the back ……

Da Groovemasta

"CENTRAL COAST BRANCH"

 "CHARITY NIGHT"

When: Saturday

15th August, 2009.

Time: 6pm to 12pm

(Start 6:30pm)

Where: BREAKERS CLUB

 DOVER ROAD, WAMBERAL.

Cost: $75.00 per/person

 

 

(Book a table of 10 or more for $700.00 per table)

Money raised will be put towards upgrading our trailer and first aid kits for all branches and helping our disabled friends have fun.

There will be raffles and auctions, and entertainment from the Dave Gleeson (Screaming Jets) and his band, and local band to the coast, Toad in the Hole.

Invited guest list includes:-

Surfers: Tom Carroll and Barton Lynch.

Footballers: Craig Smith and Mick Peachy.

Boxer: Bob Mirovic and Mick Peachy.

Contact:- John Sullivan:- 0419 973 899

Gerroa’09 Disabled Surfing Goes Off

Over 200 people turned out for the 8th annual 'Hands On Day' at Gerroa for the region's disabled to get out and have a go at experiencing the thrills of surfing. Book ended by showers on the Saturday and the Monday, the Disabled Surfers' honorary deity, Huey, intervened yet again, giving us a perfect day.

With volunteer host surfboard Club Malnutrition being heavily supplemented by students from 10 local high schools, (Kiama, Nowra, Keira, Nowra Christian, Figtree, Smiths Hill, Warilla, Corrimal, St Mary's and Edmund Rice) together with surfers and helpers from the local community, the total helper pool was 165.

The 42 participants came from as far as the central coast and included our legendary Kelly McCann, a C2 quad who needs resuscitation the whole time she is in the water surfing with 30 helpers and 2 nurses.

There were 5 Northcott Society 'free-wheeler' amphibious wheelchairs available on the day enabling mobility challenged participants easy access to the beach and its waves. With up to 10 boards operating at the same time, each with a minimum of 10 helpers, each participant enjoyed up to 3 surf sessions before the whole group retired back to the assembly point at Emery Park for a BBQ lunch.

At the prize-giving ceremony the major awardees were:

Sand Modelling: Jamal Abdulrahim (Bomaderry)

Furthest Travelled on the Day: Tommy Bolwell (London)

Best Novice Surfer of the Day: Peter Young (Burill Lake)

Wave of the Day: Greg Garbutt (Tarawanna)

Wipeout of the Day: Leah Hocking (Wahroonga)

Best Tube Ride of the Day: Norm Pyne (Bowral)

Longest Ride of the Day: Marusha Rowe (Lane Cove)

Most Inspirational of the Day: Hotrod Thompson (Coal Cliff)

Trophy for Surfer of the Day: Sarah Walsh (Engadine) and

Kelly McCann (Campbelltown)

Helpers of the Day Awards went to Tim & Brett Swan (Wollongong) and Lisa Andrew (Maroochydore) - from an outstanding field of helpers.

Disabled Surfers South Coast branch president Ian Picton was hard pressed to thank all contributors but the short list included our local hosts the Holder family (Karen, Warren, Jesse and Nicki), Kiama Council, students from the local schools, long-boarders Club Malnutrition, the region's surf shops for the generous amount of give-aways and the volunteers for giving up a day to put "smiles on dials".

Ian concluded by reminding everyone that: "Our first event for next season is at Culburra on Saturday 14th November 2009 to be followed by Thirroul on Saturday 5th December 2009 and the Gerroa day on Sunday 4th April 2010".

To see Photo Slide Show of this event Click Here

South Coast section of the DSA Photo Album Click Here

South Coast Home Page Click Here

"Mid North Coast Branch"

Scotts Head

Saturday 28/03/09

Surf god Huey once again produced the goods for the Mid North Coast branch of the Disabled Surfers Association on Saturday 28 March.  In the final ‘Let’s Go Surfing’ day for the summer season the DSA were blessed with warm water, sunny weather, and perfect rolling waves at Scotts Head.  Huey even looked after the volunteers by producing the same perfect conditions all weekend allowing many to take advantage of the perfect 5ft waves rolling around Scotts Head point. 

Eleven disabled people showed up for a surf on Saturday, and again huge numbers of volunteers turned out to assist. 

Regulars Lainey, Kate, Zoe, Kerry, Marg , Jordan , Amelia and Nicholas stole quite a few waves under the watchful eyes of the DSA helpers, and they were joined by first timers Nick, Standup Dave from Valla and Wheelchair Dave from Coffs Harbour .  MS sufferer Marg also backed up on Sunday morning and paddled out on her own to Scotts Head point where brilliant 4-5’ waves were rolling through.  Although unable to stand Marg still pulled her fair share of set waves right through to the beach.  

Surfer of the Day on Saturday was an easy decision.  Whilst waiting for his first ever surf, Standup Dave impressed all with a few steps he’d used the previous night whilst dancing at the Coffs Ex-Services Club.  From the moment he hit the water he had a smile like a split watermelon and was unstoppable.  With huge encouragement from the DSA volunteers Dave eventually stood up on a couple of waves as well. Stoked!  A very worthy winner of Surfer of the Day.  No doubt we’ll be seeing Dave again!

All surfers went away with an award and an epic BBQ catered to all-comers at the end of the surf session.  Again all volunteers, surfers and carers were left with great memories to carry them through the winter months. 

President of the DSA Mid North Coast branch Chris Allen said, “What a great way to finish the season.  A big thank you goes out to Nikki and all the Scotts Head locals who helped out this weekend, and all the volunteers and tireless helpers who assist in putting these days on.  It’s all about surfers helping surfers and putting smiles on dials.  That’s what we’ve achieved today.  Can’t wait for next summer!”

A big thank you goes out to local Federal MP Luke Hartsuyker and Leeann Lloyd (representing the DSA) who recently cycled around the mid north coast to raise funds for the DSA.  As a result of this ride and major sponsorship by the Bananacoast Credit Union a cheque for over $6,000 was handed over last week.  A big thank you to all involved from the DSA!

The Mid North Coast DSA will be holding a meeting in the next few weeks to lay the groundwork for next summer, and anyone interested in being involved is more than welcome to attend.

Click Here for pictures from the Scotts Head event.  Any inquiries about the upcoming meeting to Chris Allen on 0437 274474. 

See you all next summer!

THANKS SUNSHINE COAST BRANCH

Saturday 28/03/09

I'm writing this email on behalf of my son Mac who is 8 years old and has Cerebral Palsy. On Saturday we had one of the most wonderful experiences in Mac's life to date. I cannot believe the dedication of the people running the Sunshine Coast branch of your organization.

This was Macs first time surfing, and he has not stopped vocalizing about it every since. The volunteers made him feel so safe and he wants to start counting down the sleeps till October when next he can go surfing. Show and tell this week is very exciting showing off the medal, trophy and photos (which we had to hurried develop today).

I have never met such a genuine bunch of people.

My Mum and Dad had the pleasure of watching their grandson experience something they never thought possible.

You all deserve so much.

Regards

Greg & Tammy & Mac & Charlie

"Victoria Branch Training Day"

MORE than 130 OCEAN Grovers

MORE than 130 OCEAN Grovers have been praised for turning out to help a disabled surfers organisation – despite Saturday’s searing 47 degree heat.

 

The volunteers turned up for the first training day with the Disabled Surfers Association of Victoria – and more than succeeded in their aim of putting smiles on dials.

 

Five surfers with disabilities also gave their time to help train the volunteers, again overcoming the record temperatures to do their bit.

Gary Blaschke, national president of the Disabled Surfers Association of Australia, said: “It was absolutely fantastic and probably the second largest roll up around Australia that we’ve had for a first event. “I think we had roughly about 130 volunteers turn up. I think most of them were pretty amazed with what we actually do.” Gary said the next step will be a full hands-on day on March 7 where participants will come along and be looked after by the new volunteers while still getting further training from national members. “Other volunteers can come along and be part of this event as well and we call on other volunteers to get involved,” said Gary. That event will start at 9am at Ocean Grove Main Beach.

Gary said high spots of the day included gaining more acceptance on the beach. “We had a five disabled people who came along who hadn’t been out with us before, they were absolutely raving about it, saying that they had never been involved with an organisation that has the attitude that we have.

 

We’re surfers - never say die, get out there, get involved. We’re surfers first, disabled second. Lots of smiles on dials. Surfers helping surfers. Putting smiles on dials.

“It’s also breaking down barriers and accepting people with disabilities on the beach. They have the right to get there.

 

National Secretary Jim Bradley who visited the Grove back in October to rally support for a Disabled Surfers group in Victoria said: “It was a really great roll up. 47 (degrees) or something. I’ve just got to say it’s a testament to the community that 130 volunteers turn up to train (in the heat). That’s just a credit to the local community. If ever you wanted an excuse not to turn up, today was the day. Well done Ocean Grove.”

For more information the local contacts are:

Dave Renton on 0431 601760 or Mark Beshara on 0431 601760.

“Disabled Surfers/Surf Industry ball”

to be held at the Perth Convention Centre on the Sat 21^st Feb 2009.

 

This night is all about the Surf Industry coming together and celebrating our unique industry that we are all involved in and also for an amazing cause.

All proceeds go to The Disabled Surfers Association of WA.

This is going to be a cracker night so dust off your taffeta dresses and get those mullets and white suits and get ready to rock out to “Oastsupply” the ultimate 80’s band.

There are 30 tables of ten (300 tickets) and it will be on a first in best dressed basis so please don’t miss out and get back to me early –so get together your shop staff, agency, office and mates together on a table.

I have also arranged a corporate rate ($175) at The Hilton across the road from the Perth convention centre for those of you who want to stay over in style.

Payments can be made via Visa, MasterCard and bank deposit details to come. Please pass this onto any one I have missed and any queries please don’t hesitate to contact me by email or phone 0400835502

Click Here for Attendance Form

 

Victoria Surfers!

 Here's your chance to put something back into surfing.

Come to our very first "Train the Helper" day
and learn how to become a real help at our new Victorian Branch of the Disabled Surfers Association.

WHEN? Saturday 7th February 2009, 9.30am - 2pm.
BBQ lunch is provided free to all attendees.

WHERE? Ocean Grove Beach - meet at the Surf Club

COST? FREE but bring your swimmers or wettie

The Disabled Surfers Assoc is made up mainly of surfers, but non-surfers can significantly contribute as well, and is a totally independent and voluntary organisation, helping people with all types of disabilities to enjoy a safe surfing experience for the past 23 years across Australia.
Now, in 2009, there are 13 active OZ branches:
Q: Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast; NSW: Far North Coast, Mid North Coast, Hastings, Hunter, Central Coast, Sydney, South Coast; Vic: Ocean Grove; SA: Adelaide; WA: Perth and Dunsborough.

NOW, WHERE DO YOU FIT INTO THESE PICTURES?

By becoming a HELPER!

It is open to anyone, young or old, surfer and non-surfer alike, who has an interest in giving up a morning at least once a year, to help any disabled have a safe surf, in waist-depth water. You'll be professionally trained (it's free, of course), along with everyone else, before attending your first event. For more info contact Mark on 0431601760, Dave on 0418575880, Dan on 0403163188 Level 1 Certificates issued on the day

New Zealand Surfers!

 Here's your chance to put something back into surfing.

Come to our very first "Train the Helper" day
and learn how to become a real help at our new New Zealand Branch of the Disabled Surfers Association

for the Nth Island to start with.

WHEN? Saturday 7th February 2009, 9.30am - 2pm.
BBQ lunch is provided free to all attendees.

WHERE? Mt Maunganui Beach -

meet at the Surf Club

COST? FREE but bring your swimmers or wettie

The Disabled Surfers Assoc is made up mainly of surfers, but non-surfers can significantly contribute as well, and is a totally independent and voluntary organisation, helping people with all types of disabilities to enjoy a safe surfing experience for the past 23 years across Australia.
Now, in 2009, there are 13 active OZ branches:
Q: Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast; NSW: Far North Coast, Mid North Coast, Hastings, Hunter, Central Coast, Sydney, South Coast; Vic: Ocean Grove; SA: Adelaide; WA: Perth and Dunsborough.

NOW, WHERE DO YOU FIT INTO THESE PICTURES ? By becoming a helper!

It is open to anyone, young or old, surfer and non-surfer alike, who has an interest in giving up a morning at least once a year, to help any disabled have a safe surf, in waist-depth water. You'll be professionally trained (it's free, of course), along with everyone else, before attending your first event. For more info contact Pete on 021994551, Anne-Marie on 0210541771. Level 1 Certificates issued on the day

17/1/2009.

Driving into Evans everyone could see that maybe it would have been a good idea to stay in bed instead of being at the Evans Hands On Day. With Fresh South Easterlies blowing in and light rain coming down for most of the day. But after seeing old friends/ familiar faces and experiencing the attitude of the volunteers you soon can’t think of a better place to be.

 

On the day, broken wave size was around the average 1-2 foot mark. With a great ride being provided into the shallows where they died out. This was a good thing though as the fins on the bottom of the boards aren’t really made to handle the friction of ending up on shore (or in my case the sheer weight:-). Water visibility wasn’t there but that wasn’t a problem with only dolphins being seen swimming in the waves. There were 25 participants there on the day and about 50 volunteers the majority of which have been to the event before, but there were new faces also which is always a great thing! All participants had plenty of smiles, especially Adrian who again did his (now patented) victory run.

A cheque was presented by the Evans Head Mal Riders Association for $500.00 which they raised through a fundraising day in October! A pie maker was donated from the Chandlers store at Lismore and raffled on the day raising some money for the branch.

Our five star cooks were present once again to cook a beautiful lunch for volunteers and participants alike. The tasty bread was graciously supplied by Baker’s Delight, Ballina. Everyone had a great day, thanks to the volunteers for giving up a large part of their Saturday. The next scheduled event is at Minnie Waters on the 16th and 17th of March.

Happy Surfing!

Adam Cazalet.

Joint Secretary DSA FNC N.S.W.

IF you want proof that community spirit is alive and well along the Coffs Coast then all you needed to do was get down to Woolgoolga beach on Saturday morning.

When the Mid North Coast Disabled Surfers Association held one of their 'Let's Go Surfing' days on Saturday, there were an amazing 80 volunteers on hand to help 13 disabled people try their hand at surfing.

It was a case of many hands making light work with DSA surfing, and every volunteer left with the memory of putting some extraordinary smiles across the faces of those catching a wave.

Impressing everyone was local Federal MP Luke Hartsuyker attending as a volunteer.
Hartsuyker couldn't wait to jump in the water to help out and he will be helping the DSA next month when he does a charity ride around the Cowper electorate to raise funds for the association.

But the real highlight of the day was the troopers getting out into the surf.
Some of the 13 were veterans from previous Let's Go Surfing events while some were anxious newcomers.
It didn't take long for the group to settle into the event and have a great time.
It will be a long time before those present will forget Bernice, a blind and mildly autistic 12-year-old girl, who had never been anywhere near a surfboard.

After captivating everyone with her enthusiasm she caught a few waves lying down then proceeded to stand up and surf to shore assisted by a volunteer.

There was rousing applause and more than the odd tear being shed.
Young Patrick also managed to stand up and got one great wave all the way in. His celebration dance that followed on the beach had to be seen to be believed. Local boy Jordan also got out there and managed his usual handful of good waves with the boys.

The next Let's Go Surfing day will be in March at Scotts Head.

 

For any inquiries about the event or sponsorship contact Chris Allen on 0437 274 474, and check out the DSA website www.disabledsurfers.org for pictures of the October event and this event. Click Here

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