are-able Foundation Grant for Disabled Surfers

If you’re near the beach in Warrnambool this summer, you might spot an enthusiastic bunch of L-plate surfers in the waves – supported by the Disabled Surfers Association (DSA).

Since 2015, The Great South Coast branch has been assisting people with disabilities into the water and onto surfboards. The success of the program has seen participant numbers swell each year.

The are-able Foundation recently presented the Disabled Surfers Association’s Great South Coast branch with a cheque for $7,100. The money will go towards a custom designed trailer essential to the success of the organisation, which uses special and modified equipment to help people of all abilities hit the waves.

The grant means the Disabled Surfers Association can look at expanding their unique service into other areas of the coast, making the joy of surfing accessible to more people, with bigger and better events. Disabled Surfers president Aidan Nicholson is excited about the new opportunities the trailer will provide.

‘If we can become self-sufficient, we can potentially branch out to other beaches,’ he said.

are-able CEO is particularly thrilled that the are-able Foundation was able to help budding board riders – his own lifelong love of surfing means he understands the rewards of the ocean.

‘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 even standing up,’ he said.

More information on this fantastic initiative can be found on the Disabled Surfers’ Facebook page here.

The are-able Foundation

Since 2004, The are-able Foundation has allocated almost $900,000 to a wide range of projects across regional Victoria. It is currently funded solely vian are-able profits generated by its operation as an employment and disability service. Click here for further information about the are-able Foundation and how to apply for the next funding round.

are-able Employment Consultant Sharon Lilley presenting a giant cheque on the beach at the latest DSA event