Akhawk...top marks to you and your daughter for volunteering for such a worthwhile cause. It must have been a buzz, not only for the disabled surfers, but for all involved. I love to see and hear of stuff like this.
Congratulations. If I see it here in Vic, I'll be volunteering.

There is a Victorian branch but I don't know where exactly it is based though. Do it you won't regret it.
Next day in Perth is the 21st march at Leighton again. They also do one in Dunsborough.

Yeah thats it, they have a website.

Fantastic to hear guys. It takes a really special person to take time out of their own busy life to help out those with a disability or special need. JohnDavid I think todays correct term maybe "Little People" but I'm not sure of that 100% either.

Up here on the Sunshine Coast there is an organisation that holds an annual surf competition in November to raise much needed funds for persons with a disability. In the last 4 years they have raised over $60,000. I was in contact with them last year (unfortunately after the event) and enquired about the inclusion of a SUP division in this years programme. They were very keen and I'll talk more with them as the event gets closer. www.theboardmeeting.org

As a mother of a 2.5 yr old with multiple disabilities...I will be one of the first to enter even though I can't surf very well. When competing in SUP distances races or events, when the going gets tough I remind myself that I am doing this for all those who probably never will...like my son. We're all very lucky to enjoy the simple things that we often take for granted. Great to hear you guys getting involved.

Here's a photo from the day. There was a BBQ and presentation to all participants afterwards but I couldn't stay for that.

Sue, my youngest son is 23 and has a physical disability that affects his fine motor skills and balance and coordination. It is a very rare condition, but we have met some other families in Aus who have a child affected by it also. We had a fundraising dinner last September and raised $40,000 for research.
I've also thought about other fundraising ideas. We're going to do a bike ride/fun run/walk day next summer. I was also wondering about a SUP event. Might be a fun way to raise money.
So like you I appreciate everything we have, and can do. We are fortunate that he is healthy and mobile, but some others aren't.

Well said akhawk,that's what its all about Champ!

mac

Sounds like fun. Its a shame St Kilda isn't in Perth! Maybe an event in each state? ie WA and pissed......only kidding!! Great idea though.

A couple of guys here on the Sunshine Coast attempted to paddle around Fraser Island in 2007 they were planning on the same attempt this year but with they way finances went and a few other logistical problems they have put it off. The Plan is to make this into a teams race to raise money.

A few of the articles that were in the paper - there is also a couple of You Tube videos.

http://www.thedaily.com.au/news/2007/nov/23/nn-heaven-or-hell/

www.thedaily.com.au/news/2007/nov/27/fraser-island-stand-up-paddle/

www.thedaily.com.au/news/2007/dec/04/wind-thwarts-paddlers/

www.thedaily.com.au/news/2008/oct/13/surfers-stand-disabled/

This is all great stuff.

Hey Sue.. Sam (Kialoa paddles) is in Sydney and very involved with groups like this..and lately with an obesity in children program I think?.

I'll find the link that she sent to me and post it.

DJ

Here it is...

Hi guys,

Not sure how many of you know but I have been trying for a few years to get a charity registered to run the attached programs. I thought I would share with you all the great news that the charitable status came through today. I am so happy. So anyway if you know any big companies that would like to donate 100k for 6 x 6man canoes and a trailer and 20 x stand up paddle boards to run after school programs for kids , and to help promote outrigger paddling in NSW. These boats would then also be available at regatta's to be rented by clubs from the charity to be used in open races after the juniors have finished. Please let me know if any of you have any thoughts.

Cheers
Sam