By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
THE SURFING bug can bite anyone at any time, but a particular band of boardriders derive even greater pleasure from the pastime.
That’s because they often only have two opportunities a year to pull on a rashie and face the Ocean Grove waves.
The Disabled Surfers Association Ocean Grove has its two event days for this summer coming up on 1 February and 1 March.
The volunteer group puts on free surf days for people with any disability, with all equipment supplied and a bunch of volunteers on hand to assist.
Now in its seventh year, the Ocean Grove branch has taken more than 750 people with a disability surfing in a fun and safe environment.
Organiser Nick Ansell said the group was also seeking volunteers interested in helping out to come along.
“You don’t need to have surfing experience to help out. We surf in waist deep broken waves with teams of 20 to 30 people assisting one surfer at a time.
“There are even volunteer roles for those who don’t like to get wet.
“This is an incredibly rewarding experience for participants and volunteers alike. Our motto is to put smiles on dials of everyone who attends.”
Mr Ansell said more information was available at disabledsurfers.org/vic/ocean-grove-branch/ or by phoning Julia on 0413 925 970 or himself on 0425 713 208.
