A popular all-abilities surfing program has been given a $7000 funding boost which could see it rolled out at other beaches in the region.
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The south-west Disabled Surfing Association branch uses specialised surf boards and other modified equipment to enable volunteers and participants to take to the water.
The event, which attracts people of all ages from across the region, has become so popular that a second day was added to this year’s program. The grant will enable further expansion in the future.
The program received $7100 from the WDEA (Western District Employment Access) Works Foundation as part of its biannual funding program.
The trailer will enable the group to store and transport their own surfboards and other equipment, rather than having to rely on the Ocean Grove Disabled Surfing Association’s resources.
WDEA chief executive Barrie Elvish said the disability employment services, training, education and recruitment agency was happy to support the program which was great for the community.
Mr Elvish said the funding was available to not-for-profit groups who assisted people with disabilities, or were disadvantaged by other factors.
“Surfing as a sport is fantastic because people of any ability or disability can get the thrill of being out in nature, catching a wave or possibly standing up,” Mr Elvish said. “It's a fantastic way for them to achieve something on their own terms.
“Being an old surfer myself I have a vested interest in helping people experience the fantastic sport of surfing. I went down to watch these guys earlier this year and got speaking to (association president) Aidan Nicolson who said they had to bring their gear across from Geelong. I said ‘we need something locally here for our own community’. They applied (for the grant) and they were successful.
“We allocate some of our profits every year across to this foundation. It’s the way WDEA Works gives back to the community in which we operate.”
South-west Disabled Surfing Association president Aidan Nicolson said it was a boost for the local program and it would be fantastic to have a trailer of their own.
He said the program provided participants with a beach experience they may not otherwise have in a fun and supportive environment.
“If we can become self sufficient we can potentially branch out to other beaches,” Mr Nicolson said. “There’s potential to go to Cape Bridgewater if there’s people over that way that want us to come. Who knows? If we’ve got our own gear and our own way of transporting it we can branch out a little bit more.
“It’s a really good donation, it’s great.”
Mr Elvish said the next WDEA Foundation funding round opened in January and encouraged not-for-profit groups who meet the criteria, which is listed on the WDEA website, to apply.
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