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World Champion Ice Swimmer Peta Bradley is Reinforcing Vital Water Safety Messages
World Champion Ice Swimmer Peta Bradley is Reinforcing Vital Water Safety Messages

30 January 2025, 2:00 AM

During the harvest of 2010, as floodwaters swept through Armatree in regional NSW, a group of local farmers swapped their Akubras and transformed into the "Baywatch" crew, keeping the town safe, at least in spirit. More than a decade later, Armatree’s own Peta Bradley is doing something just as unexpected, swapping the paddocks for icy waters and a world championship in extreme swimming.Peta Bradley knows a thing or two about water. The world champion ice swimmer, who grew up in the tiny NSW town of Armatree, has spent years training her body and mind to withstand some of the harshest swimming conditions on the planet. Competing in water just above freezing, Bradley’s resilience and discipline have earned her international recognition. While she is not making any big announcements just yet, she has been reflecting on what she has seen overseas and how it compares to Australia’s approach to water safety. With Australia’s drowning toll rising, recent figures show a concerning increase in beach and inland waterway fatalities. Bradley has been thinking about the role swimming culture plays in survival. She was particularly struck by her time overseas, where she noticed a stark difference in how people engage with water. “In Australia, even in small country towns, people are doing laps and swimming properly. But in some places I visited, I saw people just paddling, not really swimming in the way we take for granted,” she said. Bradley believes this cultural difference may contribute to drowning statistics and highlights the importance of structured swimming education from an early age. “It is not just about being able to float or paddle. It is about understanding how to move through the water with confidence and knowing what to do in an emergency,” she explains. Her observations align with ongoing discussions in Kiama about improving water safety education. Local surf clubs, emergency responders and community leaders are exploring ways to better prepare residents, particularly those who may not have grown up near the ocean, for the risks posed by unpredictable water conditions. Although Bradley is best known for her ice swimming feats, she has always been passionate about water safety. Growing up in regional NSW, she learned early how to read water conditions and stay safe in unpredictable environments. In her town of 500, earning a Bronze Medallion was a rite of passage for many local kids.This was taught by a community member who had personal experience with a water-related accident in the family. With access to rivers and farm dams, water safety education became an important element for many families in the area. That knowledge, she says, is something all young Australians should have access to, regardless of where they live or their background. "One thing that ice swimming has taught me is respect for cold water and the impact it can have on your body and how quickly that can take effect. That holds true not just for cold water but all water - you have to have respect for the conditions." Peta BradleyWhile she has not yet committed to any official role in local water safety efforts, Bradley’s experiences and insights are already creating interest among schools and community groups. Her global perspective, combined with her deep roots in rural Australia, offers a unique lens on why swimming education should be prioritised. One thing is clear. Peta Bradley is not just about winning medals. She is about reinforcing a message that has been echoed for years but is still not getting through. Water safety education needs to be a priority, and her experiences are helping highlight why it cannot wait any longer.

21 rescues in 2 hours show the power of vigilance at Kiama Surf Beach 
21 rescues in 2 hours show the power of vigilance at Kiama Surf Beach 

29 January 2025, 9:00 PM

Kiama Surf Beach saw a season high of 21 rescues in one day, a sobering reminder of the ocean’s unpredictable nature. Between 12 and 2 pm, when the tide was changing, flash rips caught swimmers off guard, leading to repeated incidents despite the surf appearing calm.With over 150 swimmers in the water and more than 400 people on the beach, Kiama Surf Life Saving Club’s patrolling members worked tirelessly to ensure everyone made it home safely. Thanks to their vigilance, all rescues had positive outcomes, with each swimmer guided safely back to shore. Club Captain Natasha Osmond-Dreyer explained that these kinds of days are a reminder of the critical role of preparation and teamwork.Patrolling the beach involves more than reacting to emergencies. Osmond-Dreyer shared how every patrol begins by assessing the strengths of each team member, assigning the strongest swimmer to water rescues, while others take on roles such as first aid and resuscitation. This preparation allows the team to act swiftly and effectively.On the day of the rescues, the team carefully monitored swimmers in groups, continuously counting heads after waves and scanning for subtle signs of distress, such as someone drifting further out or struggling against a current.While swimming between the flags is the safest option, Osmond-Dreyer stressed that swimmers must still be aware of their own competency. “Even if you are in the flagged area, you need to be honest about your ability. If you are not confident in the surf, do not go out too far. Stay close to shore where you can stand,” she said.Most of the rescues on the day occurred within the flags but involved swimmers who lacked the skills to handle deeper water.Lifesavers did not wait for a raised hand before taking action. Osmond-Dreyer explained that patrol members could see people struggling before they had a chance to call for help.“We were proactive. We rescued them before they even had time to signal for assistance. By the time we reached them, they were already in trouble. If we had waited for them to raise their hands, the outcome could have been very different,” she said.Photographs and footage from beach cameras also play a vital role in monitoring conditions. These cameras, part of a national coastal monitoring system, allow lifesavers to assess beach and surf conditions throughout the day. The images provide critical information on rip currents, wave patterns, and how weather conditions impact the safety of swimmers.Osmond-Dreyer explained that these visuals are essential for understanding the dynamics of the ocean and for planning patrols effectively.Photographs and footage from beach cameras also play a vital role in monitoring conditions.She added that the photographs are also valuable for public education and training. “We share these images on our Facebook page to show how deceptively calm the water can look when dangerous rips are present. They’re also useful for training purposes, helping us review how we responded to rescues and what we could do better in the future,” she said.While the lifesavers were able to guide all swimmers to safety, some individuals needed to be rescued multiple times, highlighting the importance of understanding what to do in a rip.Osmond-Dreyer emphasised that the most important thing is to avoid panicking. Floating on your back to conserve energy is critical, and raising one arm straight in the air is a clear signal to lifesavers that you need help. She explained that rips are not going to carry you all the way to New Zealand, andt fighting against them will only exhaust you.“Floating is your best friend,” she said, adding that waiting for assistance or swimming at an angle to the rip’s direction will improve your chances of staying safe.She also stressed the importance of swimming between the red and yellow flags, where patrols monitor the conditions most closely. “We position our team to cover this zone because it is the safest place to swim,” Osmond-Dreyer said. “If you are unsure about the conditions, always talk to the lifesavers on duty. We are here to share local knowledge about hazards and rip conditions, and we would much rather give you advice upfront than have to rescue you later.”The 21 rescues at Surf Beach are a reminder of the vital role of both patrol teams and personal responsibility. Osmond-Dreyer’s advice is simple but life-saving: respect the ocean, swim at patrolled beaches, stay calm if caught in a rip, and always speak to the lifesavers.

Kiama’s rising stars leading the surf lifesaving charge
Kiama’s rising stars leading the surf lifesaving charge

26 January 2025, 12:00 AM

At Kiama Surf Lifesaving Club, a new generation of young athletes is making waves, both in the surf and on the competitive stage. Under the guidance of head board coach Peter Gallagher, these young members are building skills, confidence, and camaraderie while enjoying all the excitement that surf lifesaving has to offer.“Surf lifesaving isn’t just about competition,” Peter explains. “It’s about being part of a team, learning valuable skills, and building lifelong friendships. If they want to compete, I’m here to support them, but it’s the sense of belonging and achievement that matters most.”The Kiama Surf Lifesaving Club boasts a group of outstanding young athletes who excel both in the water and as part of a team. The girls, including Hannah and Charlotte Griffin, Poppy Nelson, and Chloe Barnes, bring a mix of natural talent, determination, and enthusiasm to their training and competitions. Each of them has embraced the challenges of surf lifesaving, thriving in the club’s supportive and encouraging environment. In the junior boys’ ranks, Finnlay Smee and Fergus Coughlan share a passion for paddling and endurance events, showcasing remarkable skill and dedication. Together, these rising stars embody the spirit of teamwork and resilience that defines the club.For those who enjoy the thrill of competition, Kiama Surf Lifesaving Club offers plenty of opportunities. Events like the Dean Mercer Dash, a challenging 5km paddle, are highlights of the year, while some members are already in training for long-distance events like the Ocean Racing Series.The club’s training program is dynamic and varied, with board paddling, swim sessions, and fitness exercises such as planks and chin-ups. “We focus on all-around fitness, teamwork, and having fun,” Peter says. “It’s about helping each person reach their potential, whatever their goals may be.”Beyond the competitive scene, Kiama Surf Lifesaving Club is a hub of community and connection. Social activities like pizza nights, barbecues, and camps bring members together, fostering friendships that last a lifetime.Peter is especially proud of the club’s ability to create a positive environment for young people. “This is a place where kids can grow into confident, responsible adults while having the time of their lives,” he explains.Surf lifesaving offers young people a unique mix of adventure, skill-building, and community connections. Whether competing, training, or simply being part of a supportive team, Kiama’s young lifesavers are on a path of personal growth and achievement.For those looking for excitement, belonging, and purpose, Kiama Surf Lifesaving Club is the perfect place to dive in and experience all that the ocean and community have to offer.

Kiama surf lifesavers honoured with Bravery Awards for Christmas Day rescue
Kiama surf lifesavers honoured with Bravery Awards for Christmas Day rescue

25 January 2025, 4:36 AM

This afternoon, MP Gareth Ward presented Kiama Electorate Bravery Awards to six members of the Kiama Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) in recognition of their life-saving actions on Christmas Day.Mr. Ward presented Bravery Awards to Harry Britton and Ed Birchall at the Kiama SLSC clubhouse. The other four members - Charlie, Brad, Dave, and Brian - were absent due to prior commitments, but their awards were accepted on their behalf by the Kiama SLSC.“Heroes don’t necessarily wear capes. Whether they’re just people in the water at the time or lifesavers on patrol, these individuals have saved lives,” says Mr. Ward.“The people who perform heroic acts like this are often so humble that they shy away from the attention and awards, as you can see today. But it’s important to recognise them for what they’ve done in saving lives.”On Christmas Day, four people became trapped in a rip current, and the six lifesavers who received awards today sprang into action to save them.“It was a challenging day - waves were about 4 to 5 feet, and the rip currents were pulling in both directions. Some girls got out of their depth and began to panic. They looked distressed. These young men were the first to respond,” says Ed Birchall.“At first, the girls thought they had it under control, but the boys stayed close by, monitoring the situation. A little later, the girls were pulled into the rip on the southern end. I went out with the rescue tube to help, but by the time I got there, these boys had already done most of the work.”One of the first responders, Harry Britton, said the rescue came naturally to him. “I don’t really think about it too much; it comes naturally.” Reflecting on the lesson people should take from the experience, he added, “Swim between the flags, and if the surf is heavy, make sure you can touch the bottom.”Mr. Ward also took the opportunity to acknowledge the ongoing efforts of surf lifesaving clubs across the state, particularly during the busy summer months.“I want to thank Kiama Surf Life Saving Club, and all our lifesaving clubs, for their incredible work. They volunteer their time not only when someone is in trouble but also in the extensive training that prepares them for these rescues. It’s a huge commitment,” Mr. Ward concluded.

Alan Swan rowing for a cause to preserve our shores
Alan Swan rowing for a cause to preserve our shores

25 January 2025, 1:00 AM

Alan Swan’s participation in the George Bass Marathon wasn’t just a physical challenge; it deepened his connection to the coastal environment and reaffirmed his passion for protecting it.With a background in environmental science and professional experience at Sydney Water, Alan brings a unique perspective to the importance of maintaining pristine waterways. “The clarity of the water, the abundance of seafood – it’s a treasure,” Alan says, reflecting on the South Coast’s untouched beauty. The marathon took Alan through some of the most stunning and undeveloped coastlines in the region, which he describes as a privilege to experience. “Seeing that made me more passionate about protecting these environments.” Alan’s environmental consciousness is rooted in his studies and his time working for Sydney Water during a critical period of improvement in wastewater management. “I worked there just prior to the commissioning of the Deep Water Outfalls in Sydney,” he recalls. “At that time, untreated sewage was being discharged through cliff outfalls at the headlands, creating appalling beach conditions.”  The Deep Water Outfalls were a game-changer, significantly improving the water quality of Sydney’s beaches. Alan’s firsthand knowledge of what happens when coastal environments are neglected drives his commitment to raising awareness about the need for sustainable practices. “The technology exists to handle waste responsibly; it’s about having the will to use it.” During the George Bass Marathon, Alan marvelled at the pristine conditions of the South Coast waters, contrasting them with his earlier experiences. “No one wants to be rowing in polluted waters,” he states firmly. For Alan, preserving these environments isn’t just about aesthetics but about ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy and benefit from them. He also emphasises the broader role participants in events like the George Bass Marathon can play in environmental advocacy. “If you want to take part in these kinds of activities, it’s beholden on you to respect and protect the environment you’re using,” he says. Alan’s passion for the coastlines extends beyond personal enjoyment. He believes in leveraging his experiences to educate others, particularly on issues such as water pollution and responsible development. His call to action is clear: “We’ve seen what happens when we overdevelop or mismanage our resources. It’s up to all of us to do better.”

Gerringong surfer Lucy Darragh kicks off 2025 with major win
Gerringong surfer Lucy Darragh kicks off 2025 with major win

24 January 2025, 4:50 AM

Gerringong’s rising surfing star, Lucy Darragh, has claimed her first major junior competition win of 2025, setting herself up for a successful year ahead.Lucy secured first place in the Under 16’s female division at the 20th annual Taj’s Small Fries competition in Western Australia, marking her second consecutive victory at the event.“I was really happy with how I surfed. I managed to post some good scores in every heat, despite the varying conditions throughout the 5-day event,” says Lucy.Lucy in action. Source: Salt Diaries and Surfing Western Australia.For Lucy, getting off to a strong start in 2025 was a key focus. “It was important to start the year on a high, just like I did last year. Winning this first major event gives me a lot of confidence and puts me in a great position to achieve my goal of representing Australia again at the ISA World Surfing Games in 2026.”At the end of 2024, Lucy was crowned the number one ranked Under 16’s surfer in Australia at just 14 years old.This win proves that she is well on her way to her dream of reaching the world tour, winning a world title, and becoming an Olympian.Gerringong supporters at the Gerringong surf club. Source: Salt Diaries and Surfing Western Australia.Lucy expressed her appreciation for the support of the Gerringong community who came together and watched her compete via livestream at the Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club.

Jamberoo 7s is a celebration of sport and community.
Jamberoo 7s is a celebration of sport and community.

21 January 2025, 12:01 AM

 The annual Jamberoo 7s is set to take over the village, bringing with it a wave of football fever and community spirit. The event will be held 7–8 February 2025 at Kevin Walsh Oval. What began with just six teams last year has already blossomed into a major sporting event, attracting over 1,000 players for a weekend of thrilling seven-a-side action."The energy is infectious," says Alan Smith, President of Jamberoo Football Club. "The Jamberoo 7s creates lasting memories for everyone involved, while also strengthening our community bonds."This year, 112 teams will battle it out across seven tournaments, making for a spectacle of amateur football. The action kicks off Friday night and continues throughout Saturday, culminating in an exciting finals showdown.Beyond the sport itself, the Jamberoo 7s provides a significant boost to the local economy. With an influx of visitors, the tournament is expected to generate over $1 million for businesses in Jamberoo and surrounding areas.Organisers are working to secure camping facilities to accommodate out-of-town players and spectators, adding another layer of convenience and camaraderie to the weekend.Driven by a dedicated team of volunteers, the Jamberoo 7s is a testament to the village’s spirit and hospitality. Visitors can enjoy the charm of Jamberoo, from the welcoming local businesses to the picturesque surrounding landscapes."It’s a celebration of Jamberoo," says Smith. "We invite everyone to experience the magic."With its unique blend of sport and community spirit, the second Jamberoo 7s promises to be an unforgettable event.

Kiama couple win South Pacific bowls championship
Kiama couple win South Pacific bowls championship

18 January 2025, 11:00 AM

Shona Kirchen and Richard Statham are partners through life and on the bowling green, and now they’re also South Pacific Champions.The couple won the lawn bowls mixed pairs competition at the 65th South Pacific Carnival, held from 27 December to 6 January and hosted by Woonona Bowling Club. The tournament kicked off at Windang Bowling Club with 770 competitors, including 90 teams in the mixed pairs division, with the finalists competing at Woonona. Shona and Richard say they had no expectations going into the competition.“We weren’t under any pressure on the first day because we weren’t expecting anything, so we just played and we both played really, really well that day,” says Shona.“We didn’t expect to do as well as we did - we went in there with the idea that we'd have a good go at it. You had to win all three games at Windang, which was a bit daunting, and we were surprised when we came away with three wins,” says Richard.The pair continued their winning streak and found themselves in the final at Woonona, facing Queanbeyan’s Cherrie Climas and Darren Walsh. They won the game 19-12.Richard has been bowling for just six years, and Shona even less, starting only four years ago. They were up against players with more than 20 years of experience but managed to clinch the championship, making them the first team from Kiama to win in 30 years.“We didn’t have any clue that we’d go as well as we did. But we just kept playing and were lucky enough to win. It was more of a surprise to us than anyone else,” says Shona.The pair, who have been partners for 23 years, say the key to their success is that they never get angry at one another.“We just go out there to enjoy ourselves,” says Richard. “If someone puts down a bad shot, we forget about it. We don’t get angry or upset with each other, as we’ve noticed with some other teams.“Once you get cranky with each other, you lose your concentration and rhythm, and you feel like you have to try harder, which messes everything up.”Shona adds that this calm and supportive attitude is not just present in their relationship, but also within the lawn bowls community, especially at Kiama Bowling Club.“If you win or lose, everyone comes in, sits around together, and compliments each other on their games that day,” she says. “It’s a nurturing environment, you meet new people, make friends, and it’s challenging too. It’s a lot harder than it looks.”Richard and Shona want to extend a big thank you to everyone who came out to support them, as well as to Woonona Bowling Club for hosting the event. They also encourage anyone interested in lawn bowling to give it a try.“Give it a go! There are bowls available at Kiama Bowling Club, so you don’t need to buy your own,” says Shona. “There’s free coaching on Tuesday afternoons at 4.30pm, and you don’t need to book, just come down, and they’ll set you up and off you go.”The Bugle congratulates Shona and Richard on their impressive achievement!

Kiama Junior Knights registrations now open
Kiama Junior Knights registrations now open

15 January 2025, 11:51 PM

Registrations have now opened for the Kiama Junior Knights for all children aged 5-16 who are interested in playing rugby league or Blues Tag.Source: Brian ScottAfter a very successful 2024, new president Lachlan Payne says the club is hoping to continue to provide an environment that kids love being a part of.“Last season, we had more than 500 players registered with our Club including 310 boys and 191 females across 38 teams,” says Lachlan.“We also experienced some great results on the field with our five teams winning their respective premierships and another team making the grand final.”In 2025, the Kiama Junior Knights are looking to field teams in all ages in the junior rugby league competition, under 12, 14 and 16 teams in the girls tackle competition and under 8, 10, 11, 12, 14 and 16 teams in the girls league tag competition.The club will be holding a ‘Come and Try’ clinic on Monday 10 February at Black Beach, Kiama.“The session will be run by the local NRL Development Officer and will be a great chance for all children aged 5 to 12 years to come down and try rugby league or league tag, meet other players, coaches and committee members ahead of the 2025 season,” says Lachlan.To register go to playrugbyleague.com, search for 2533 and follow the steps. Eligible players can apply for a $50 Active Kids Rebate, on the Service NSW website: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/apply-active-kids-voucherFor further registration information people are encouraged to contact Cass Timms via [email protected].

Senior Tennis Tournament a success
Senior Tennis Tournament a success

14 January 2025, 8:00 PM

David GrahamThe 2024 Kiama Tennis Club Seniors Tennis Tournament, held at the end of November, was a resounding success, attracting over 125 players from across the state and South Coast. Tournament organiser David Lehman was pleased with both the number of entries and the strong support from local players.Three local pairs were victorious in their respective doubles events: Rod Clarkin and David O’Keefe won the Open Group C Doubles, Steve Marshall and Chris Geraghty triumphed in Group B, while Joe Moseley and Dane Mottley claimed first place in Group A. Ralph Szulerowski, alongside fellow Kiama Tennis Club member James Brown, won the Group E doubles event.In the Open Ladies Doubles, local player Kathy Wallace, partnering with L. Griffiths, took out the Group D event.Ken Cliff from Kiama also had a standout performance, finishing as runner-up in two doubles events. He competed alongside James Brown in the Group C Combined Men’s Doubles and teamed up with S. Watty in the Combined Mixed Doubles.Tracey Coleman also featured in two doubles finals. She was a runner-up in the Combined Ladies Doubles with C. Stiller and narrowly lost in the Combined Mixed Doubles (Group C) alongside her husband, Mark.With the impressive performances and strong community spirit displayed throughout the tournament, the 2024 Kiama Tennis Club Seniors event was a highlight of the 2024 season and a testament to the talent and camaraderie of local players.

Alan Swan says teamwork makes the dream work
Alan Swan says teamwork makes the dream work

14 January 2025, 4:50 AM

Jamberoo’s Alan Swan never thought he’d be part of the gruelling George Bass Marathon, but the experience became a celebration of resilience, camaraderie, and shared effort, proving that teamwork truly makes the dream work.For Alan, the challenge wasn’t just physical, it was a test of mental grit. “I’m not exactly a sea creature,” he jokes. “I’m more comfortable on land. The deep-sea crew changeovers were especially daunting for me.”Yet, it was in those moments of discomfort that Alan discovered the power of his eight-member crew. “Rowing is all about working together,” he reflects. “It’s not about individual effort; it’s about rhythm, flow, and trusting your teammates.”Kiama Surf Life Saving Club George Bass Marathon Team proves teamwork makes the dream workThe George Bass Marathon is legendary for a reason. Over seven days, crews face relentless rotations, rowing in shifts that challenge their endurance and spirit. Long days mean swapping every 20 minutes, with equal rest, but shorter days are even more punishing, with six-person teams only getting 10 minute rest periods.“The short days were harder,” Alan says. “There’s barely any time to recover before you’re back in the boat.”Behind the scenes, the land support crews were equally critical. They moved boats, set up camp, and prepared meals, ensuring the rowers could focus on the water. “Our support team was incredible,” Alan says. “They took care of everything. It made all the difference.”The physical toll was immense, blistered hands, sore feet, blistered and bruised backsides from the unrelenting motion of the boat. But Alan’s good humour carried him through. “One guy told me to use a tub of Vaseline with a spatula,” he laughs. “That advice saved me!” Seven Days of Blood Sweat and Tears and BlistersAmidst the struggle, there were moments of magic. “One day, everything just clicked,” Alan recalls. “We found our rhythm, the boat was flying, and the coastline was stunning. I thought, how lucky am I to be part of this?”Support from sponsors like Ray White Real Estate, Kiama Lions Club, and Boab Marine was vital. “Boab Marine provided our support boat,” Alan shares, “and the funds helped us secure a new set of oars. For smaller clubs like Kiama, that’s huge.”The marathon’s 50th anniversary made the event even more special. “Rowers from the original race, now in their seventies, joined in,” Alan says. “Seeing them still out there was inspiring.”For Alan, the experience wasn’t just about personal achievement. “If one person wasn’t fully committed, it wouldn’t have worked,” he says. “It was all about everyone coming together.”The George Bass Marathon has left Alan with a new sense of confidence and possibility. “It’s the hardest thing I’ve done in a long time,” he says. “But it’s shown me that stepping out of your comfort zone is where you grow.”As he considers his next adventure, one thing is certain: Alan Swan is ready to keep testing his limits, proving that with teamwork and determination, anything is possible.

Leonie Murphy named Werri Boardriders Club Person of the Year
Leonie Murphy named Werri Boardriders Club Person of the Year

12 January 2025, 8:00 PM

Leonie Murphy was named the 2024 Werri Boardriders Club Person of the Year at the annual presentation - and even though it is a club mainly focused on being in the water, Leonie did most of her work from the shore.As a passionate photographer, Leonie’s outstanding work behind the lens, alongside her contributions to the club's committee, earned her the prestigious recognition.“I was very honoured to accept Club Person of the Year with the Boardriders. I’m still gobsmacked about it because there are a lot of good people in this club,” says Leonie.You’ll often find Leonie down on the beach taking photos of all the surfers. She aims to ensure that she gets at least one great photo of everyone, no matter their skill level.“It doesn’t matter to me how good a surfer you are, if you’re out there and having a go, that is what it's all about,” says Leonie.But if she had to pick a favourite of the surfers to take pictures of, it would have to be the youngsters. “A photo tells a story and it captures a moment. And with the Boardriders I love seeing the young surfers and it is so fantastic watching them having fun.”“I was meant to go on a trip to Africa to take photos, but it was cancelled because of COVID-19. So, I started doing some surfing photography instead. I had a friend named Finbar O'Leary, the father of surfer Connor O'Leary, who gave me some great pointers on how to follow the wave,” explains Leonie.When she moved to the area from Sydney a few years ago, Leonie wasn’t sure what to do next. However, after spotting a group of surfers in action, she approached them and asked if she could take some photos. And that was how it all began.Leonie is now deeply involved with the club, especially in fundraising efforts. She’s working on organising events throughout the year to help raise money for Lucy Darragh's journey to the world titles, as well as for the club’s 20-year-old trailer.She also encourages anyone in the community interested in joining the club to reach out. “It’s such a warm community, and it feels like my second home. The friendships I’ve made here are lifelong ones. There are so many wonderful families within Boardriders, and anyone looking for a great environment for their children to grow and develop should join.”The Werri Boardriders are also actively seeking sponsorships. Anyone interested in getting involved can contact the club via their Facebook or Instagram pages.

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