Story: Darrell Nash and Kate Yates
Sixteen-year-old Port Macquarie Surf Lifesaver Emily Davidson has realised a personal dream of welcoming more than 20 children from Broken Hill to the coast.
Emily was the 2011 Junior Lifesaver of the Year and, in December last year, was among the recipients of the 2012 MP’s Volunteer of the Year Award.
Emily has been the instigator and driving force behind the Silver City to Surf Program, which she devised to give young people from far inland NSW the opportunity to enjoy their first experience of sand, surf and beach culture.
More than 40 businesses and community groups, particularly CountryLink, Busways and the seven Rotary clubs of Port Macquarie and Broken Hill, had helped Emily turn her dream into reality, with donations of money, equipment and other in-kind support.
The visitors attended Nippers at Flynns Beach on Sunday – one of many activities planned for them over the next five days.
They were welcomed by Lyne MP Rob Oakeshott.
Some of the activities planned for the visit include surfing lessons, participating in nippers and visiting local historic and tourism sites such as our local museums and the Billabong Koala and Wildlife Park.
Surf Lifesaving NSW promotes and funds a ‘Beach to Bush’ program where club members travel to country areas and tell school children about the beach.
Emily, however, wanted to do something a little better than this and contacted the School of the Air in Broken Hill with the aim of bringing the Bush to the Beach.
“I wanted to find a way that I could give other children just a small taste of what is available to me every day,” she said.
“Despite the rain, which they haven’t seen for years out West, they all had a ball and I am extremely happy with how it all turned out.”
School of the Air Principal, Peter Farquhar said, “This adventure will stay with these children for the rest of their lives.
“For many it has been a once in a lifetime experience and Emily should be congratulated for her initiative in getting this off the ground,” Peter said.
“This is a special occasion for everyone involved and a great example of what can be achieved with a great idea backed by community support,” Mr Oakeshott said.
“As a result, these young visitors will have a great opportunity to learn important surf safety skills and beach awareness, as well as taking in many of the great experiences that are part of everyday life for children growing up on the Mid-North Coast,” he said.
“I’m sure it will be a great week and one that will ensure they always have special memories of Port Macquarie and its people.
“If you see our visitors around town, be sure to say hello and make them feel welcome,” Mr Oakeshott said.
