Disabled surfers hit the beach with a smile and a wave

‘To put smiles on dials’ is the key mission of the Disabled Surfers Association Mornington Peninsula, an aim well and truly realised on January 20 during its first event of the year.

Now surfers are excited at the prospect of returning to Point Leo on March 16 for the next scheduled event, and the public’s invited to head down and cheer them on.

The association enables people of all abilities to enjoy greater access to the beach year-round, often working behind the scenes without fanfare. However, it is in the flurry of activity and the beaming faces of volunteers, surfers and spectators coming together at special event days that the depiction of community spirit is most vibrant. An enthusiastic band of volunteers and carers aid the surfers as they gleefully slide through the waves on the surfboards provided.

Thanks to the unwavering support, hard work and generosity of the DSAMP committee and volunteers, the Point Leo Foreshore Management Committee, Point Leo Surf Life Saving Club, the Rotary Club of Somerville Tyabb and a crew from HMAS Cerberus, the events are smoothly run. Volunteers prepare the beach, transport gear and help pack up – everyone pitches in.

While Disabled Surfers Association Mornington Peninsula events are the culmination of a great deal of team effort, witnessing the surfers’ sheer joy on these days is ample reward for all involved.

You do not need to be a surfer or to have experience to become a volunteer. For more information on events or to ask about becoming a volunteer, visit www.disabledsurfers.org/vic-mornington-peninsula