Sport
20 March, 2026
Riding the waves on a high
THERE was plenty of excitement both in and out of the water when a group of eager surfers hit the beach last weekend.
Participants in the Disabled Surfers Association (Great South Coast Victoria) program were again treated to a morning of surf lessons under the watchful guidance of a large group of dedicated volunteers.
After a great day in the surf, the group enjoyed a feast of pizzas and food from the barbecue.
Group president Luke Robertson said the weekend was another successful one for both the surfers and volunteers.
“We had 32 surfers on Saturday, including five in wheelchairs, and around 70 volunteers which was just amazing,” he said.
“It was one of the biggest days of our season and one of the best; you couldn’t wipe the smiles from all our faces.”
The McMahon family from Koroit was presented with the Brian Gorman Memorial Trophy for ‘Volunteer of the Day’ while young volunteer, Jana, took home a new surfboard after being named Junior Volunteer of the Day.
This season the group has hosted four sessions; two in Warrnambool and one in both Cape Bridgewater and Port Campbell.
The four sessions have seen more than 90 surfers enjoy riding the waves, while more than 170 volunteers have been involved.
“This year our branch (Great South Coast) celebrated 10 years, which we’re really proud of,” Luke said.
“With the season now over, we turn our attention to planning for next year – with the first session due to be held sometime in December.
“It’s such a rewarding program for volunteers to become involved with; to see the smiles on the faces of participants is reward in itself.”
