DSA Australia News and Events 2010

"SOUTH AUSTRALIA BRANCH"

Gi' day surfers

13/07/2010

The March 28th Have a Surf Day, (our 5 anniversary) was a great day.
The committee members started early, setting up sign in tables,canopies,wet suits, BBQ, music and what ever had to be done to run another unforgettable day.
We had a very interesting weather system happening, 15 knot northerlies, rain and 1/2 foot waves, not looking too inviting at the start but our surfers were keen. With the water warm and the tide starting to come in you could see the change of swell from 1/2 a foot to a good 2ft.on sets as we hit the water, we were all hiped up to catch some awsome waves and get in the water again before our winter break.

As the swell was picking up and the wind dropping our President had his usual prep/safety talk to participants and volunteers. We had about 5 new participants and volunteers, so these talks are necessary to get them into the day and to feel part of the family.
After the inspiring talks we had only one thing on our mind "SURF!!!!!!!! Lets go.
So with smiles and surfboards, the ocean was the place to be.

Tim, on his first wave ever (a kook/ first time surfer) started off with a late takeoff, smothered by white water, but came out smiling and taking it all the way to the beach. He got the best wave of the day for that one, 'He's hooked'. Allan, another (kook) very uncertain surfer about every thing we were doing, but when we got him onto a board and into the waves he relaxed and had one of the best times of his life and at 50 . You have to love that.
As the late afternoon wind picked up and the swell dropped off with high tide we all decided we had had our quoter of waves and it was time for the Barby and with some lovely ladies cooking it, who could resist . The smell of the barby , the vibe in the club rooms was pretty relaxed and happy .Everyone was stoked.

We also had the legend of D.S.A. of Aust. visiting us for our 5th anniversary and we would like to thank Gary and Ted for coming down to SA to help celebrate the great day, they even got their hair wet, to give us a hand. Thanks a lot guys, it was fun.
Gary also helped with the presentations of some great trophies and S.A.D.S.A. wooden surfboard key rings with the participants name on the back. Nice one! He also presented some of the committee members with a memento for their 5 years of dedication to help people, get into the ocean and onto the wave's. We need these people. Thanks Guy's.
Well! after that excitement , we had another special visitor. That cool long earred Easter dude with surfboard under arm and a backpack full of chockie eggs arrived. He said he was off to Hawaii !What! Where's our eggs"? we got him before he took off. !Lucky! So it was chockie egg's for everyone. Yes!!! chocolate YUMMMM
Then when the mood started to relax and things had been cleaned up we had the pleasure of listening to local singer called Laura Hill. What a great voice, song writer and C.D. defiantly worth a buy (www.Laurahill.com.au). and a bit of colorful local art work around too.

During this great entertainment we were served with excellent salt and pepper squid and a huge anniversary cake. What a day and the last thing I saw was Gary, Ted and our President, Kym heading off over the road for more to eat at one our fantastic local restaurants.I think they had a good time!

We've planned our next "Have a surf day" for the 28th of November, same place, same time. Hope to see you there.
We would like to thank everyone involved in another fantastic day. I think that we are very fortunate to enjoy the ocean and the people.
Until we surf again. Keep Well.

Grant V.P.

P.S. We also had a very successful fund raising sausage sizzle at the Good Guys store at Noarlunga recently. Thank you Good Guys Noarlunga and to a great Committee.

"Sunshine Coast Newsletter 09-10 Season"

As the curtain falls down on the ‘09-‘10 season the Sunny Coast branch is trimming along nicely. Not even cyclone Ului could dampen the enthusiasm (though he tried with 2 postponements) and excitement that surrounds a DSA event. With three events wrapped up for the season, we look forward to adding another event to our calendar for the ‘10-‘11 season. We finished the season off with some awesome numbers, averaging 100 volunteers and 40 participants at each event, producing plenty of "smiles on dials". From the feedback we have received from participants, carers and the community alike we are on the right track and as we all know we offer something very unique and fulfilling to the disabled community.

Our "Surfer of the Year" award went to young Jayden Spark from Maroochydore for his ongoing stokeness in the surf at all our events through the year. Our "Volunteer of the Year" award went to Peter Holman for his contribution as a committee member, Team Leader and setting up all our computer data base system.

The branch would again like to thank all those volunteers who give up there time to come down and help weave a little magic and sprinkle some special moments upon those less fortunate than ourselves. You are truly special people, without you guys the DSA could simply not function. Thank you all so very much.

To our new corporate sponsor "Coles Noosa", a big thank you for your support in supplying all our produce needs at our Noosa events.

To our participants, who are a inspiration to all of us who set foot on the beach, your courage, determination and the ability to get out of your comfort zone never ceases to amaze us all and you are an inspiration to all those who participate and spectate at an event, awesome stuff guys. Last but not least, to our hard working committee who have shown so much dedication and commitment throughout the year and on event days. The devoted work and the enthusiasm you guys put into making the branch and events a success is totally awesome.

SEE YA OUT THE BACK.

Gav. (Sec.)

Posted:08-06-2010

MEDIA RELEASE

... Surfers with disabilities at risk in the hands of unqualified wannabe helpers ...

The standard of care for people with disabilities choosing to go surfing is seriously at risk because proven safety protocols are not being followed by surfing groups who are either misguided or have no idea about disability needs and/or client safety systems says the Australian Disabled Surfers Association (DSAA).

For the past two and a half decades, the DSAA has given thousands of people, with the full range disabilities, the opportunity to experience the thrill of surfing in total safety.

In most recent years other groups and individuals are beginning to attempt to emulate the DSAA's success, but are cutting corners at the expense of safety that effectively means a far lesser standard of care, says the DSAA.

"Clearly lives are at risk", says Gary Blaschke, the founding national president of the DSAA.

"Despite our best efforts in raising these concerns over the past 5 years, with both ministers from the Howard and Rudd governments, our entreaties have fallen on deaf ears", said Gary Blaschke today.

Consequently the DSAA is in the process of sending out a General Alert to all relevant state and federal ministers of sport and health, the heads of all Sport and Recreation Departments as well as National Sporting Organisations, alerting them to this potential disaster waiting to happen.

The General Alert puts all on notice that there is a real possibility for serious injury and even death, should surfing activities for the disabled not have some fundamental risk management in place, as recommended by the DSAA.

"Whilst some may want to label the DSAA concerns as 'surf/turf wars', it is the fact that safety provisions developed over more than 2 decades by DSAA are the nation-wide standard and as such should be recognised", Mr Blaschke concluded.

The DSAA has 14 branches across all mainland states as well as New Zealand. Their activities are unique in the world in that they accept participants no matter what their particular disability - all physically, psychologically and intellectually disabled are welcomed and catered for.

ENDS: for verification Jim Bradley Hon. National VP DSAA 0458690455
Further enquiries Gary Blaschke Hon. National President DSAA 0424890455

Posted:14-04-2010


Please take the time to read and distribute this important notice.

Posted:14-04-2010

"SYDNEY BRANCH FEBRUARY 2010"

HANDS ON DAY

The Sydney Hands on Day has evolved into what the rest of the DSA sees as the National event and this year’s get together did not let anyone down.

With great weather leading up to the event and surf conditions looking perfect the DSA team came into action as a massive group of both volunteers and participants began to arrive.

By the end of the day the figures had reached 175 participants and over 300 volunteers, a world record for a disability surfing event.

Most branches had sent a representative to the event and especially the meeting afterwards, as it is important for each branch to try to see just how others run their events and talk to as many teams as possible.

Special mention should be made of the South Coast branch and their unbelievable team of dedicated people. Picco., as always put himself out and dragged the trailer from Wollongong to help supplement the Sydney equipment.

With the crowd growing quickly, the Sydney crew saw that they needed to increase the size of shelters and sign in areas to cater for the mass. The food tent was expanded and we were ready for the masses.

Down in the pool the volunteers came into their own with team after team having a ball as the races began. Big Russ took over and tallying and Fog Horn Scotty took over the screaming and shouting.

Having so many participants in the pool we had to start the surfing earlier than normal to keep a constant flow and it worked great. Team after team were working with every disability imaginable. Len Snowdon had everyone waiting their turn on the sand occupied with sand modelling contests and toss the sand bag. Jim and Barton Lynch were working their butts off marshalling the participants and all the team leaders were becoming totally stuffed by the consistent flow participants.

Things got hotter when they lined me along with others, for a team effort that included drinking a warm soft drink, eating a dry wheatbix and lots of whipped cream, you can imagine the rest as most of it ended up on me, yet Russell didn’t get away scott free.

Over all the day was a massive event with fabulous support from our sponsors Global Surf Industries and all the smaller supporters including Black Ice Sunglasses.

Posted:27-04-2010

Gary Blaschke

"SYDNEY BRANCH MARCH 2010"

Palm Beach Gathering

Sydney’s northern beaches tested a new event for the Sydney members to work with the Palm Beach Longboarders at their venue at the stunning Palm Beach.

Gary was not available to attend as he and Ted Kabbout were visiting our South Australian branch for their 5th Birthday celebration event, which turned out great due to Gary’s naked calling of Huey from the cliffs of Moana to bring in the waves.

That’s another story that may or may not be told.

Back to Palm Beach, with Doc, Jim and a small team of DSA members along with a great bunch from the Palm Beach Longboarders entertaining the disabled participants at what looks to be an alternative venue for another invitational event for the Sydney crew.

The day was great with a small clean wave and lots of sun and smiles as some of our disabled members, who never seem to get out in the water due to their commitment to making sure that the larger Sydney Hands on Day runs smoothly, were able to hook into some magic moments. Sticks once again stood out as a future world champion.

We look forward to many years of working closely with the Palm Beach Longboarders at this amazing venue. Thanks to all involved especially Jim’s monumental effort from Kiama.

Posted:27-04-2010

Gary Blaschke

"SYDNEY BRANCH APRIL 2010"

Bondi Comes Alive With A Team Effort

Bondi Beach, Australia’s iconic venue had seen nothing like it with the DSAA team working beside such groups as the Bondi Lifeguards ( those on TV.), coaches from Let’s Go Surfing (Australia’s largest Surf School), North Bondi SLSC, Waverley Council and the Kings Cross Bikers.

A small day of activities to promote the DSA and support some of Sydney Committee members and a small group from an Autistic school in Liverpool called Sharecare.

Some fourteen Autistic children and a few DSA members had the time of their lives as conditions could not be any better when Huey turned it on and smiles were plenty. Brenda’s team from the local surf school were fantastic, although we had to rescue the Bondi Lifeguards on many occasions (just joking).

The bikers ran the sausage sizzle during our time in the water with the special school of Autistic kids and teenagers. Murray Rose (Ex Olympic swimmer) showed great interest with the DSA by talking with Gary on the beach and stating his support for what we do. Sarah Walsh had a magical wave that had her step off onto the sand from right out the back, what a champion !

After many hiccups along the way with the logistics being nearly impossible for such a popular venue on a magic Saturday morning, the day turned out to be fabulous for all involved.

Special thanks to Picco and his team from the south coast branch once again, Ramona and Sticks for looking after signing in and promotional talks and the joint effort of all involved.

Posted:27-04-2010

Gary Blaschke

"BONDI BEACH COMES ALIVE"

Bondi Beach will come alive on Saturday 24th April @ 11am for the Disabled Surfers Association of Australia Inc. as part of a joint effort to bring awareness of Disability Surfing to the general community and raise much needed funds for ongoing projects of the fourteen DSA branches throughout Australia and New Zealand.

Such organisations as Lets Go Surfing Surf School (Australia's Largest), Kings Cross Bikers Social Club, North Bondi SLSC, Bondi Lifeguards, Simply Skydiving and Waverley Council will join in festivities such as Brenda Miley (Lets Go Surfing ) and Rick Bilewicz (Nth. Bondi SLSC) parachuting onto Bondi beach where teams from all involved will join forces under the supervision of the DSA, to put some smiles on the dials of several participants with a disability for a unique surfing experience.

A fund raising Sausage Sizzle will follow, being organised by the Kings Cross Bikers Social Club with all proceeds going to the DSA for much needed special surfing equipment.

If you wish to donate or sponsor a skydiver, either Brenda or Rick or both, or if you wish to just do a donation, please see details below.

Direct Bank Deposits:

Disabled Surfers Association of Australia Inc.

BSB: 06 2256
Account No.06 2256 10340413

or

Cheques or Money Orders:

Mailed to:

PO Box 345

THE ENTRANCE NSW 2261

Made Payable to:

Disabled Surfers Association of Australia Inc.

Thank you...
Gary Blaschke OAM
DSAA Founder and National President.

Posted:24-04-2010

HUNTER BRANCH LAST SURF

BLACKSMITHS BEACH

It was another beautiful day at Blacksmiths beach, of course the weather was great its Newcastle! The water temp was 22 degrees the waves were 3 to 4 foot, with the odd 5 foot though in every now and then, small amount of sea weed which always leads to a few funny moments.

We had 5 new faces in the surf for the first time Paul, Craig, Vince, Cath and Mel with their 3 careers all from the Samaritans. We had 3 new volunteers from Blacksmiths Long Boards Club Chad, Todd and Jake, it was great that we had local surfers giving their time to come and join the fun, smiles never left their faces. There were a couple of young kids new to surfing Bayley and Dan the boys had a great time in the surf.

SURFER OF THE DAY

Surfer of the day went to Cath Malony, this was Cath’s first time out surfing for about 30 years. Cath is blind but this was not about to stop her screaming down the waves. Cath had the biggest smile on her face for the whole day. We are looking forward to taking her down more waves next season.

WIPE OUT
Wipe out o the day went to Craig Brown, this was Craig’s first time out in the surf. His first wave was a massive wipe out, there was a few during the day but Craig’s was the most spectacular his face said it all. He didn’t want a second wave but when he won the wipe out of the day award he was in great spirits.

VOLUNTEER
Volunteer of the day went to Mark Nolan, Mark has been with the D.S.A. for a few years now and this season became one of our committee members. Mark did his usual brilliant job helping from beginning of our event to the end of the event all with bruised ribs, no one even noticed, well done Mark with out great souls like you we can’t function.

There was a lot of laughter at the BBQ afterwards. Its always a great feeling to know everybody enjoyed themselves.
It was a great end to the season. The weather, the waves and of course participants and volunteers, made the last surf of the season spectacular.
We hope to be announcing some changes for next season events.
(TO BE ARRANGED AND ORGANISED).
Committee meeting will be on the 18th of May. All Volunteers are welcome.

If you would like any information on our meeting or events or feel you can contribute yourself, please don’t hesitate to phone or email Brad on:
mob: 0422371951 e-mail: dsa@disabledsurfers.org

Talk soon

Thanks

Brad

Event Co-ordinator Hunter Branch

Posted:24-04-2010

Time to ROCK out with Rusty!

On behalf of the Rusty Philanthropy Committee, I am please to extend an invitation to the RUSTY ROCK BALL 2010 to be held Saturday the 10th of July 2010 at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The RUSTY ROCK BALL 2010 is a Rusty philanthropy initiative and WA Surf Industry Event which aims to raise awareness of Melanoma WA and The Disabled Surfers Association WA.

All profit raised on the night will assist both non-for-profit organisations in further educating and enriching the lives of fellow West Australian’s in need.

With 230 people attending last year, we raised a total of $25,000 for DSA and with a bigger and better event planned this year we hope The Rusty Rock Ball 2010 will be even more of a success.

There are 300 tickets available, $150 per person or $1500 for a table of 10. The below flyer contains all further relevant information regarding the event however should you have any other enquiries please contact:

Nicole Jardine via nicole.jardine@rusty.com.au or 0400 646 366.

We would love to see you there and in the words of

ACDC.…......"FOR THOSE ABOUT TO ROCK WE SALUTE YOU!"

MELANOMA WA

www.melanomawa.org.au

RUSTY

www.rusty.com

DISABLED SURFERS ASSOCIATION WA Branch

www.disabledsurfers.org

Posted:31-03-2010

"COURAGEOUS AUSTRALIAN"

DSA South Coast Life Member

Len Snowdon to appear on Wollongong's

® and ®

Each year, locals are featured on the covers of the Yellow Pages® and White Pages® directories in recognition of the contributions they make to their communities. Under the theme Courageous Australians, this year directories producer, Sensis, is recognising courageous people who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to overcome adversity and help others in their time of need.

After receiving nominations from community members for the annual honour, Windang resident, Len Snowden has been selected to appear on the cover of this year’s Wollongong directory which is distributed to Kiama, Shellharbour, Wollongong and surrounding areas.

After losing his right arm, leg and hip in a workplace accident 17 years ago, Len’s ‘never say die’ attitude has made him an inspiration to fellow amputees and his local community.

As co-founder of the Support Amputee Family & Friends (SAFF) organisation, Len has designed a number of training courses to educate people about living with a disability. He is also a member of the Disabled Surfers Association of Australia and Sailability Illawarra, which teaches people how to participate in sport, regardless of what type of disabilities they have.

“I think it is important to instill hope in people after a traumatic accident. Support from friends, family and the community is an integral part of the healing process and SAFF helps educate people about this,” said Len.

Len regularly visits hospitals across the country, demonstrating how patients can use prosthetics in order to regain their independence and uses his journey as an example that you can have great quality of life after a traumatic injury.

Jane Blackley, White Pages® Group Manager, says we felt the Courageous Australians theme was particularly relevant with many parts of Australia having experienced testing times over the past couple of years.

“Australians are known for their compassion and willingness to put their hand up to help when it’s needed most. Whether helping to build better community relationships, showing strong leadership, inspiring others, or acting in a major crisis to protect the lives of others, we really wanted to demonstrate the diversity of what it means to be courageous.

“From the nominations received, we were amazed at the many people from all walks of life who have shown tremendous courage, either by risking their own life to save another, overcoming major challenges to inspire others or helping to ensure the wellbeing and safety of the community.

“We felt Len was a great example of what it means to be a courageous Australian and we are delighted to feature him on the cover of the Wollongong directory,” said Ms Blackley.

Distribution of Wollongong ® and ® is planned to start on 13 March 2010 and it will take approximately six weeks for the directories to be delivered to all households

Above extract from White Pages Community

More about Len Click Here

Posted:31-03-2010

"Gerroa Disabled Surfers Score a Perfect ‘10"

Over 300 people turned out for the 9th annual ‘Hands On Day’ at Gerroa on Sunday for the region’s disabled to get out and have a go at experiencing the thrills of surfing.

With a southerly change due in the late afternoon, the Disabled Surfers’ honorary deity, Huey, booked us in for another perfect day.

With volunteer host surfboard Club Malnutrition being heavily supplemented by students from 14 high schools, (Kiama, Nowra Anglican, Bomaderry, TIGS, Warilla, Albion Park, Nowra Christian, St Marys Milton, St Josephs AP, Sutherland Shire Christian, Barrenjoey Avalon, Lake Illawarra, Vincentia, Cronulla) together with surfers and helpers from the local community, the total helper pool was 255.

The 55 participants came from as far as Mt Druitt 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 6 Northcott Society ‘free-wheeler’ amphibious wheelchairs available on the day enabling mobility challenged participants easy access to the beach and its waves.

Due to the sublime small wave conditions 10 boards were operating simultaneously, 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, with all participants receiving a medallion for their stirling efforts, the major awardees were:

Sand Modelling: Jessica Kronje (Bomaderry)

Best Novice Surfer of the Day: Ronelle Forbes (Nowra)
Wave of the Day: Jessica Simon (Berry)
Best Tube Ride of the Day: Taylor O’Sullivan (Primbee)
Most Inspirational of the Day: Joseph Renwick (Nowra)
Trophy for Surfer of the Day: Lee Mulholland (Wollongong)

Helpers of the Day Awards went to Chiara Arthur (Kiama HS)this being her 5th Gerroa event and Kaycee McClean (Bomaderry HS) who gave up having her 13th birthday party to be here to help – 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 the DSASC organising committee members, 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 participating 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 North Culburra on Saturday 13th November to be followed by Saturday 4th December at Thirroul, Collaroy (national event) on Saturday 26th February and the Gerroa day on Sunday 3rd April 2011”.

Jim

Posted:22-03-2010

"Gi'day from SA"

Did we have a great day or what, 'it went off'. After the 25 knot easterly's in the morning and no waves, the committee members were a bit concerned (a few more grey hairs for nothing) because the ladies on the register table were going wild with all the new surfers and regular faces rolling up. The wind dropped off a bit and changed to a more southerly, which picked the waves up to a good 2 ft. on the sets with the tide coming in. We knew we were going to have a great time from the sounds of the laughter coming from the the main area. The Beach Boys were playing and the wetsuit try ons were happening (some people just love to dance and you've got to boogie sometimes).
Then the Pres. had to remind us what we are here for. To catch a few wave's and get some saltwater in our vein's. So after his great informal speeches to volunteers and participants we were off with surfboards under arms as we walked down to the beach, some ran, it been a long time between waves. We saw Carly catch this sand dredging shorey and making it. The crowd went wild and the excitement in the water was just beginning. With Matt and Jessica coming out and standing up on their first wave, all the way to the beach, (they defiantly haven't lost their sea legs) and with some of our first participants, like Francine and Hilary, happy to get out there and splash some sea water in their face's and to feel the sand between their toes again. It must be magic. Don't take it for granted.

So after everybody was surfed out, someone mentioned that the B.B.Q.was ready and with hungry and satisfied surfer's we where all on a mission. Food, drink and brag about the waves we just had. Life's sweet.
So with the fun over in the water we had to get on with the serious stuff.
We thanked our participants, our great volunteer's, our committee member's, the Moana S.L.S.C. and the ocean because with out all of you we would never be able have so much fun and so many memorable moments.
Next up was the drawing of the huge raffle (thanks' sponsors) that the Wallace family won, Mark 2nd and Katrina all the way from Renmark, (awesome) won 3rd prize.
Also the much anticipated presentation of the very unique trophies, won for Best Smile by Francine, Best Surfer by Sunara, Best Wave by our mate Bruno and one of our favorite awards, Best Wipeout won by Hilary. We also had some nice shell medallions for all participants to remember the day by. All made our V.P.
In all, it was another incredible 'Have A Surf Day' and with our next event day to look forward to on the 28th March which just happens to be our 5th anniversary. We are going to be visited by that cool long eared Easter dude, some amazing music and art display, not to mention the most important thing, Waves, Laughter and Friendship. Hey! Whatever comes first.
We lost a good friend and volunteer recently, Craig Wood, (surf in peace Mate) our hearts and thoughts go to his family.

On a brighter note the day was great with everyone leaving with smiles from ear to ear and excited about the next event. So hope to see you all there.
We are in need of wetsuits in medium to extra large sizes, so if you have any in good condition that you're happy to donate please contact me on 08-8327 0107.
Keep well,
Grant
V.P.

Posted:09-03-2010

"Mid North Coast DSA"

Scotts Head - Saturday 06/03/2010

After a week of miserable weather the Mid North Coast branch of the Disabled Surfers Association hit the jackpot once again with clearing skies, no rain and a some nice waves on Saturday at Scotts Head. In the final 'Let's Go Surfing' day for the summer season the DSA nineteen participants showed up for a surf on Saturday, and again huge numbers of volunteers turned out to assist despite the gloomy early conditions.

Regulars Kate, 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 Chris, Luke and Kiara. Despite some early nerves Kiara ended up surfing on her own for a full 3 sessions! Nick, Standup Dave, Daniel, Stuart, Sienna and Jacob got great waves, with Kerry and Jacob going tandem on a few just for good measure.

Little Jordy got in amongst it with the help of big sister Tyler. Tyler was awarded the volunteer of the day award after spending 3 hours surfing with any one of the participants she could find. James, Louisa and Bree all scored good rides, and Aiden is working towards mastering the surf next season.

All surfers went away with an award and an epic BBQ catered to all-comers at the end of the surf session. Just like March '09 at Scotts Head all volunteers, surfers and carers were left with great memories to carry them through the winter months.

Retiring President of the DSA Mid North Coast branch Chris Allen said, "A big thanks to all the crew who travelled down from Coffs, and especially to Nikki and the Scotts Head locals who helped out this weekend. We set out to put some smiles on dials and succeeded again. Couldn't have done it this summer without all our sponsors - but in particular Coopers Surf Australia, Key Employment and Country Energy."

Keep a lookout for our local Federal MP Luke Hartsuyker who once again will cycle around the mid north coast to raise funds for the DSA at the end of March.. This ride, with major sponsor Bananacoast Credit Union back on board, will allow the local DSA to update and buy new equipment for next summer. Good luck Luke from all the DSA!

Our anticipated events next summer will be October in Coffs, December in Woolgoolga, January back in Coffs and March in Scotts Head.

See you all next summer!

"DSAMNC CREW"

Thanks to those who got to Scotts on Saturday for a surf or to volunteer – the rain held off, the water was warm, we had glimpses of sun and a gentle 1-2ft surf. 20 surfers and around 85 volunteers showed up – well done and thanks for making the effort in what started out as fairly gloomy conditions.

Keep a lookout in the Advocate, Independent, Nambucca and Kempsey newspapers this week hopefully for a report.

Thanks for your support in whatever form it’s been over the summer. We are now in recess until spring. We’ll be setting dates sometime during winter but in summary for next season we’re looking at Coffs Jetty in October, Woolgoolga in December, Coffs again in January, and finish up at Scotts in March. Keep en eye on the website and your emails for updates.

PS: We are still hunting for a new home for our trailer – if you think you can help please drop me a line.

Thanks again

Cliff Lloyd

Posted:09-03-2010

"NEWS FROM DOWN-UNDER"

South Australia Branch

Just a quick run down on our gnarly, have a surf day on Sunday 29th of Nov.09 at Moana SLSC.
Well Saturday, what can you say, 25 to 35 knot onshore wind. Surf 4 to 5 ft. shorebreak. The committee members where worried that the surf might be too big for everyone.The phones ran hot, but the weather man had it right for once.

On the Sunday we woke up to sunny skies, light winds and pumping 3 to 4 ft. wave's with the tide coming in.
The first people in the water that day where some of the committee members, after helping set up everything and watching these nice waves come in they made the exuse that they had to test the water conditions. Sure!!! So before anyone else arrived, they went out and caught a few waves but the Presisdent nearly took out the best wipeout trophy of the day for his classic swan dive. Nice one Kym.

As time drew closer to the start of the event, we were lacking numbers. Committee members worried again!!!(what,why and how) but as every good surfer in S.A. knows, Moana beach works better on incoming tides, so like good surfers and friends our regulars came out of the woodwork. The buzz around the club, the meeting of old and new friends and the eagerness of the participants keen to get out into the surf, it had been a long 9 months since our last event. You could feel the excitment, like Jason who was pumped, always smiling Jenny, cool and smiling in any surf conditions and Glenis dying to be number one as well, we were all ready for a great day of surfing. With the surf getting bigger and the tide coming in, the rides got longer and everyones confidence (and smiles) got bigger (don't mention the wipeouts) but it was a great surf session. Everyone got their wave quota for the day and more.

So as the waves dropped off with the full tide we called it a day and went up to the club rooms for the awesome BBQ. Nothing like nice waves with friends and a good barbie afterwards, it's good for the soul. After the barbie and drinks had been devoured, unique trophies, handmade by vice president, Grant, were presented for best wave, best wipeout, best surf and best smile.

We were also very proud to present Jason Douglas with his award for being runner up DSA surfer in Australia for 2009.

All participants took home a shell medallion with the DSA logo to remember the day as well as some great memories.

The drawing of the raffle completed the day, and thanks to our generous sponsers, regular participant Matt took home first prize of surf gear and goodies.

In 2010 we look forward to continue giving everyone the opportunity to enjoy the fun and freedom of surfing and thank all the surfers who come out to enjoy the day and all the volunteers who make the day a success.

Slide Show of pictures from the day Click Here

Best wishes for 2010

Regards

Sandy Faint

Secretary SA DSA

Posted:20-01-2010

NSW SOUTH COAST BRANCH

"Old Man of the Sea"

DSA South Coast would like to Congratulate Experienced Sandon Point Surfer and DSA Volunteer Alan Reid on Turning 50 on Friday the 15th Jan 2010.

Alan has been volunteering with the DSA for over five years now.
Birthday guests invited to attend Alan's party were asked not to bring him any presents but to make a donation to the DSA South Coast Branch.

A photo display on the night of Alan's party enabled guests attending on the night to gather an understanding of what happens at a usual DSA Surfing event.

At the end of the night a total of $500 was raised towards DSASC
A big thanks from the DSA team go out to Alan and his wife Karen for their
generosity and support.

Ian Picton
DSDASC
President

Posted:18-01-2010

"SURFERS ENJOY OCEAN OF FUN"

A RECORD 27 participants took to the waves at Coffs Harbour’s Jetty Beach for the Disabled Surfers Association Beach Day on Saturday morning.

Assisted by 109 volunteers, all participants were able to enjoy the surf.

The president of the Coffs Harbour branch of the DSA, Chris Allen, said there were almost as many new faces as there were ‘die-hard’ participants. The day had been ideal with crystal-clear, warm water and small, manageable waves, so most of the people who took part, which included one participant from Valla, had said they would definitely be back. He said the new beach wheelchair, an ‘ingenious device’ had been ‘fantastic’

Sienna Templeton heading out

on the crystal clear water at the

Jetty Beach on Saturday

Three and a half hours of surfing was followed by a barbecue and the presentation of prizes for best wipe-out, best dismount, best wave and other achievements.

“We saw some unique styles and plenty of enthusiasm,” Mr Allen said.

“Everyone stayed in the water all the time.”

The next Beach Day will be held at Scotts Head on March 6, from 9am to noon.

Posted:12-01-2010

"RIDING THE WAVE OF FRIENDSHIP"

It does not matter if you lie on a surfboard, sit on it, kneel on it or stand up to ride a wave. It's always an exciting thing to do.

"First-time Surfer"

George Angliss with Volunteers

The Disabled Surfers Association of Australia (DSA) offers participants and volunteers an opportunity to get in the ocean together, have fun and socialise. Lasting friendships are made between people from all walks of life.

DSA Gold Coast president Craig Castles says the group has exceeded anything he had thought was possible in so many ways.

"The DSA is all about putting smiles on dials - it's as simple as that," says Craig.

"We are one huge family. Everyone from asthmatics to people with joint injuries and paraplegics are welcome. And everyone becomes a champion surfer - they are the bravest people in the world.

"Surfing and being in the ocean is good for anybody; it beats a hydro-pool.

"Many members find friendship and support and have their interest in surfing renewed."

Eight-year-old George Angliss recently enjoyed his first surfing event and is looking forward to hitting the waves again soon.

George's father James says the day exceeded all expectations.

"George was a bit unsure at first, but once he got in the water he really began to enjoy himself," he says.

"All of the volunteers were very open and inviting.

"George loved it and now he's keen to do it again. Everyone should get out there and have a go."

Craig has been making sure that everyone can enjoy the experience of surfing since 2004.

"I have been surfing for 35 years. I have two sons with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and I have been involved with electric wheelchair sports in Queensland since 2003," he says.

"In July 2004, my wife at the time saw an advertisement in the newspaper here on the Gold Coast promoting a public awareness meeting for the formation of a DSA branch on the Gold Coast.

"She said ‘that sounds like something you could get into'.

"I am well aware of how beneficial the ocean is to all of us, and the thought of being able to not only share that with my sons, but all disabled people, was something I had to be involved in.

"I went to the meeting and I was blown away. Straight away I knew I had to get involved, so I signed up for the new committee.

"I started by fundraising for the first year, became vice president in the second year, and I have been president for the past three years."

Craig says the DSA has about 100 volunteers at each event on the Gold Coast.

"They run the committee, they help to take people surfing, monitor surf conditions, help with the sign-in table, cook the barbecue, set up equipment, ferry wheelchairs across the sand, organise beach activities and make people feel welcome and at ease.

"All people involved with the DSA do it on a voluntary basis."

Craig says the DSA helps people with a disability to enjoy what many people take for granted - that's catching a wave any way possible.

"You become part of the force of nature. It's a buzz," he says.

"I love the DSA and all the people involved. It has become a major part of my life and keeps on getting better.

"We are all very lucky to have the ocean and each other."

The Disabled Surfers Association of Australia operates in many locations across Australia and New Zealand.

For more information, Click Here

Posted:04-01-2010

2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005