Parafed adaptive surfing day returns to Waihi Beach for third year

Parafed Waikato members took to the waves at Waihi Beach for their annual adaptive surfing day on 18 January, with around 30 local residents and bach owners joining the Waihi Beach Surf School to support 17 surfers living with physical disabilities or visual impairments. The event, now in its third year at Waihi Beach, has grown in volunteer numbers each time it has been held.

One standout participant was 16-year-old Rylee Sayer, who lost an arm 18 months ago. She spent the entire day in the water, determined to stand up using just one arm. Volunteer Dani Hudson, 14, said Rylee had "no quit in her" and that watching her progress throughout the day was deeply moving.

Parafed Sport development officer Cathy Wooller praised Waihi Beach as the ideal venue — not just for the practical equipment like beach mats and wheelchairs managed by LiveWell Waihi Beach, but for the warmth of the community itself. LiveWell community coordinator Cindy Clare said the inspiration volunteers draw from meeting Parafed members and witnessing what is possible despite physical barriers makes the event truly special for everyone involved.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).