Indigenous surf contest

Umina Beach hosted the Deadly Young Indigenous program's annual surfing contest on March 15.

The competition was the highlight for the Deadly Young Indigenous program which taught surfing to young Central Coast Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

According to Mingaletta's Aboriginal community development officer Ms Kylie Cassidy, the aim of the program was to promote a healthy lifestyle and provide young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders a fun and safe way to learn to surf.

"The Deadly Young Indigenous program has become an important family event providing holistic promotion of healthy lifestyles, water safety and education," Ms Cassidy said.

"The contest offers Central Coast Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teenagers the opportunity to participate in a wonderful sporting event, while at the same time forming lasting friendships.

"It also encourages them to take advantage of our beautiful coastal environment by engaging in surfing, and therefore fosters a sense of achievement, self-esteem and pride."

Press Release, 12 March 2008 Kate Carragher, Gosford Council