Surfers

PRESS RELEASE – TRAIN THE HELPER DAY

“Surfers helping surfers”

The Disabled Surfers Association is starting up a branch on the Mid North Coast, and is putting out the call for all people to get involved and let everyone experience the joy and absolute “stoke” that the ocean and beach environment provide. With helpers such as Taj Barrow, Barton Lynch, Nick Carroll & Damien Lovelock you know that where getting involved in something amazing.

The train the helper day is on Saturday the 28th of July from 9am at Sawtell SLSC and cost is absolutely free. It is open to anyone, young or old, surfer of non-surfer alike, who has an interest in giving up a morning at least once a year, to help any disabled have a safe surf, in waist deep water. You’ll be professionally trained (for free), along with everyone else, before attending your first event.

Made up mainly of surfers, the DSA is a totally independent and voluntary organisation, helping people with all types of disabilities to enjoy a safe surfing experience for the past 21 years. Now, in 2007 there are 11 active branches across Australia in all states.

The Disabled Surfers Association was established in 1986 by Gary Blaschke after a motorcycle accident which he lost his knee cap and under went extensive rehabilitation.

Gary saw a void that needed to be filled as over the years, many surfers with disabilities have unfortunately, been loners with no one to help them get back into the water. Many suffer from disabilities that the general public would not consider a disability.

From asthmatics to joint injuries to paraplegic, many members have found friendship, support and have renewed their interest in surfing. Gary's vision quickly extended to all classes of disabilities, as it is today.

So come down to the train the helper day, have a bag of fun and let’s put something back into the community and put smiles on dials. Also the branch is after any old wetsuit that can be donated to our branch… all wetsuits of any size will greatly be accepted, Please ring Bryn Goode (0401 477 612) for more information.