Tibetan monks take a break in the waves

After chanting a blessing to the waves, Tibetan Monks donned their board shorts and life jackets at Umina Beach and, after a quick surf lesson, were out amongst the waves on Wednesday, October 5.

The Gyuto Monks of Tibet seemed happy to include play in their Buddhist practice and wisdom teachings during their Gyuto Monks Compassion on the Coast tour.

The surf lesson was conducted by Ms Yvonne Lamont, director of the WOW Wave of Wisdom and her team.

"The monks were incredible," said team member, Ms Linda Rose.

"Some couldn't even swim but they had so much fun.

"They were dignified and down to earth at the same time and we all had an incredible time," Ms Rose said.

When it was time to come in for lunch Monk Sharap asked his mentor Ms Tarni Grace for "just one more wave".

Mr Craig Healy from Gosford Council Surf Life Guards said the team loved being involved in introducing the monks to the ocean.

The day also included a special screening of the film "Pure Sound - The Gyuto Monks of Tibet" in the evening.

"It encouraged education about another culture, a culture that believes in peace and tolerance," according to Ms Lamont.

"The monks' skills are unique and interesting and the Monks smiles convey love and humility in today's frantic world," said Ms Alexandra Quinn, from the Ettalong Beach Tourist Resort.

The $1664 funds raised from the documentary screening were to be donated to supporting the Tibetan Monastery in Dharamsala, Northern India.

The monks are refugees who have fled Tibet and followed the Dalia Lama into Exile.

Patrons who missed viewing the film will be able to purchase copies of the DVD when the monks return for a tour in Gosford from November 12 to 20.

The waveofwisdom website has more information about the Gyuto Monks Compassion on the Coast tour.

Media release, 13 Oct 2016

Rosalie Paino, WOW Wave of Wisdom