Minister returns to Umina to help disabled surfers
NSW Minister for Disability Inclusion Ms Kate Washington said she "couldn't resist" returning to help out at the Central Coast Disabled Surfers Association February event at Umina Beach
"I was amongst more than 200 volunteers who helped put 'smiles on the dials' of 50 people with disability," she said.
"It's an extraordinary experience for everyone involved, and the smiles aren't just worn by the surfers.
"As the NSW Minister for Disability Inclusion, I'm grateful to everyone involved, from the amazing organisers, volunteers and sponsors to the participants, their families and carers.
"This is what an inclusive community looks like."
Disabled Surfers' Association president Ms Rae Feichter said a record 206 volunteers attended to give 49 surfers an amazing experience in trying conditions.
"Umina Community Group, Brisbane Water Rotary and Umina Surf Life Saving Club all sent volunteers."
Brisbane Water Rotary secretary Ms Di Bartok said club members had attended the event on two occasions so far.
"We were bag ladies, watching over personal items of volunteers and participants in the events, held in December and in late January.
"Seeing those volunteers in action, and the smiles of the participants as they body-boarded into shore, was a wonderful experience.
"Watching from the sidelines, our club volunteers felt privileged to be helping make the day a success, even if it was guarding everyone's personal belongings."
Ms Feichter said volunteers were now needed to register for the next event on March 1.
Volunteers can register via https://bit.ly/DSACC1stMarch.
SOURCE:
Social media, 2 Feb 2025
Kate Washington, Minister for Disability Inclusion