The Central Coast Surf Academy in MacMasters Beach has been successful in its application for funding to the Federal Labor Government’s $200 million Play Our Way Program.
The surfing organisation, which prides itself on offering an elite level of surfing tuition to all surfers, from beginners to advanced, will receive $598,600 to establish the Surfing Sistas Initiative.
Surfing Sistas is a groundbreaking initiative led by the Aboriginal and female owned Central Coast Surf Academy, offering Aboriginal girls an inclusive pathway into surfing.
Recognising the underrepresentation of females, particularly Aboriginal females, in surfing, the program aims to dismantle barriers to participation by providing a supportive, culturally appropriate environment.
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid MP:
“It is incredibly exciting for our region to be the home of the Surfing Sistas which will encourage girls to get involved in surfing.
“The Central Coast is known for its spectacular surf, and I could not think of a better region of Australia to host the initiative.
“I congratulate the Central Coast Surf Academy on this support from the Australian Government.
Quotes attributable to Owner and Head Coach of Central Coast Surf Academy, Amee Donohoe:
“All-female learn-to-surf lessons address the unique needs of participants, while providing free transport and equipment which ensures accessibility.
“Beyond physical health, the program fosters spiritual connection to land and ocean, strengthens community bonds, and creates representation at all levels of surfing through also offering high-performance coaching and competition support at the Hyundai Surfing Australia High Performance Centre.
“This multi-pronged approach ensures sustainable impact and empowerment for Indigenous girls in surfing.
“We are looking forward to getting the initiative underway”, Donohoe said.
The Central Coast Surf Academy is led by Amee Donohoe, a proud Yuin woman and elite surf coach.
To learn more about the Central Coast Surf Academy visit https://centralcoastsurfacademy.com/
Call 0426 277 742 or email [email protected]
For more information about the Play Our Way Program, visit: https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/play-our-way-program
ENDS
