By Carolyn Lonie, 8 April 2011
Disabled and able-bodied surfers hit the water yesterday for a day of fun and sun in North Fremantle.
The Disabled Surfers Association of Australia, which has been running in Western Australia since 2005, hosted the event at Leighton Beach.
This was the last event of the season, which is held four or five times a year during the summer months and the events will return again in December.
A total of 265 volunteers, members and participants were present on the day, with volunteers heavily outnumbering the participants says the registration team.
“Beach and surf- it’s the perfect place to volunteer,” says DSSA member, Linda Bye.
Many of the participants don’t always get the opportunity to get down to the beach due to needing equipment, that’s why this event is so important say members of the DSSA.
“It’s about getting out there, living life, fresh air and good company,” says carer, Geraldine Ralph.
“I actually hurt my neck a while back and was out of the water for three to four years and you realize how lucky you are to get out there.
“When you see the severely disabled guys you want to help them as much as possible,” says surfer and volunteer, Chad Micale.
Participants said one of the attracting parts of the day is the beneficial effects they achieve from this event, both physical and mental.
“When you’re in the water you’re free, it takes a lot of weigh of your body and off your mind.
“It helps strengthen my shoulders and also the stomach,” says one-legged surfer, Brian Scudder.
“It has a very therapeutic effect,” says career, Lance Brooks.
Lots of safety measure were put in place to maintain the safety of all those involved.
Special designed equipment was used and beach marshals watched out for safety issues and monitored all new participants.
“All beach marshals have had safety training and first aid.
“In the 25 years, we’ve had very few injuries except for the few nips and scratches,” says beach marshal, Ron Dobrich.
It was a bright, sunny day at Leighton Beach yesterday, yet the ocean was calm but this didn’t dishearten anyone.
“It’s dead flat so we’re just going to have to make our own waves,” says Ms Bye.
All types of volunteers were active at the event from doctors to students.
“We’re an eclectic lot,” says Ms Bye.
“The event brakes down barriers, people realize having a disability isn’t contagious,” says DSAA President, Bruce Peel.
“It was really fun. I enjoyed the waves but the best bit is helping people,” says the winner of the most helpful volunteer award, Rusmin Yohan.
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