Children get a taste of surf and sand for the first time
FOR many people, living in Port Stephens means sun and surf all year round. But for others the water is not so accessible.
A group of 25 children who had never been in the surf before were given that opportunity recently by Port Stephens Surf School.
Surf school owner Luke Michalak and staff were selected to run the Surf For Life Charity Program, which gave 25 children from The Smith Family, Raymond Terrace and Port Stephens Family Support Service the chance to chase some waves for the first time.
“I was one of the lucky surf schools in Australia to be chosen to run the Surf For Life Charity Program for underprivileged kids,” Mr Michalak said.
“I had 25 kids aged between five and 12 years old [out on the water].
“It was their first time in the ocean.”
In a thank you letter to Mr Michalak on hosting the children, The Smith Family’s Alison Harwood and Dianne Green said the children’s faces shone on the bus ride home and the impact was clearly visible.
“We particularly appreciated Luke’s approach with these children, many of whom are dealing with challenges in their lives that can be a barrier to positive learning and recreational activity,” the letter read.
“Luke guided the children with clear but encouraging instructions.
“The fact that the children listened and responded so positively is evidence of the fabulous tuition provided.”
