Aboriginal surf program planned

The Peninsula-based Mingaletta aboriginal corporation is among groups organising the Central Coast's first Indigenous surfing program, with activities at Umina beach.

The program is free, and is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders aged 10 to 18.

Children aged 8 to 9 would also be considered on application if they can demonstrate acceptable water and surf skills.

Participants must be able to swim and they must register before Thursday, December 15.

A board and rash shirt will be provided to participants.

The program is a partnership initiative between Gosford Council, Northern Rivers Department of Sport and Recreation, Northern Sydney Central Coast Health Service and local Aboriginal Corporations.

The program will involve three stages.

Stage 1: Learn to Surf Skills will be held on Umina Beach on December 18.

Participants must arrive at 8am sharp.

Stage 2: Intermediate Surfing Skills will also be held on Umina Beach on January 15.

A third stage, Professional Skills Training, will also be held, though a selection process applies.

Three contests will also be held following the program.

Contest number 1, Future Groms, will be held on January 28 and 29 at Umina Beach.

Contest number 2, Koori Surfing and Bodyboarding Contest will be held on February 19.

The Indigenous Surf Carnival will then be held at Newcastle in April.

For more information, contact the Mingaletta office on 4342 6823.

Press release, December 7 Mingaletta