It’s said that giving makes people happy, and happiness makes people give. It’s a saying that can sound a bit ‘do-gooder’ when proclaimed aloud but something that proved true to us when we spent the morning down the beach, with the Disabled Surfers Association (NSW, Far North Coast), helping to give disabled people who would otherwise find it hard to get in the water, the chance to go surfing.

Byron turned on one those fine days at the start of December that people sit at their desks and dream about and without a breadth of wind, the water was like a turquoise lagoon.

To say the surf was tiny, would be an understatement but it meant good conditions to get everyone wet and put big smiles on faces. Wave after wave, wipe-outs and all – it was all systems go.

Each month the surf day is held at a different location and it’s a tribute to the organisers to see how keen these disabled surfers are to make it to each one even if it is 3 hours away.

From asthmatics to joint injuries to paraplegics, many members have found friendship, support and have discovered a passion for or renewed their interest in surfing.

Living in the place that we do, we also share this affinity for the ocean and connection with the waves. To be able to give people the access to share in this and experience the freedom and thrill that comes with surfing is why, through our Ingrained community program, we support and volunteer with these guys.

Events are held across Australia and New Zealand each month, so jump on their website if your interested: Disabled Surfers Association