By DARRYN SMITH
THE feeling of support and love was palpable at Noosa Main Beach on Saturday as participants and volunteers readied themselves to hit the water for a Sunshine Coast Disabled Surfing Association meet.
Hundreds of volunteers and participants took to the water in what is the final surfing meet for the year, with previous events held at Caloundra and Maroochydore.
Participants of all ages and ability levels were able to catch a wave thanks to the help of dedicated volunteers who formed a tunnel for the participants to surf through as they cheered them on.
Wally Kokavec of Currimundi and daughter Laura have been involved in the Disabled Surfing Australia (DSA) events for the past three years and said they love the team spirit of the event.
“It’s a very inspiring event where lots of volunteers have the opportunity to serve and help the vulnerable in our society enjoy the pleasure of what everybody else can take for granted,” Wally said.
“It’s a celebration. The volunteers line up and celebrate these guys having a go. If they get up, they celebrate. If they don’t, the still celebrate. It’s a team event. People helping each other is a positive in our society.”
Wally said thanks was owed for the dedication of volunteers and the “selfless nature” of DSA Sunshine Coast president Tim Byrnes that such event could happen.
Sarah Railton of Wavell Heights and her son Lewis have also been involved with DSA for three years and said DSA offered something fun for kids to do.
“There is a lack of things for little kids to do that are really fun and motivating and we find this is one of the highlights of Lewis’s year,” she said.
“Coming out here is like Christmas Day for him.”
Club president Tim, who has been involved with DSA for seven years, said he loved to share his passion for surfing.
“To see someone catch a wave is pretty amazing and reinforces why it’s such an awesome thing to be a part of,” he said.
