Top South Farming Monthly

Surfing for Farmers kicks off again

- BARBARA STUART

The successful Surfing for Farmers group kicks off again at Kahuna Board Riders Club, Cobden breakwater between 5.30-8.00pm on Wednesday 18th January.

“Surfing is a great de-stressor, about twenty surfers turn up with their families each week just to get off-farm and catch up with likeminded farmer friends,” says farmer Paul Clement.

The Surfing for Farmers network recognizes the importance of providing an outlet that liberates individual­s from the daily grind and overwhelmi­ng to-do lists. By engaging in surfing activities, farmers and growers gain a renewed perspectiv­e and prioritise their own self-care. This is the second year Paul and his wife Abby have facilitate­d the group. Originally from Canterbury the couple purchased their Hokitika farm three years ago.

“When I heard about Surfing for Farmers, I contacted the national organisati­on and asked why there’s nothing on the Westcoast and landed the job.” Paul and Abby milk two hundred jersey cows therefore understand the fiscal pressures farmers face this season. “We aim to make Wednesday evening a social event and light up the barbecue. Families are welcome to come along and watch the surfing and catch up with a few beers for the grownups.”

“We also want to acknowledg­e our funders, a group of local business legends who help make this happen.”

 ?? Photo: Supplied. ?? Surfing for Farmers at Cobden Breakwater.
Photo: Supplied. Surfing for Farmers at Cobden Breakwater.

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