With great pleasure, I write this forward to the Norah Head National Surfing Reserve submission. I do so, acknowledging the Traditional Owners who inhabited and cared for this amazing place for millennia. Their custodianship and care of Country are reflected in the tenet of this application: Share, Respect and Preserve.
The community is honoured that the area of the Norah Head coastline between Hargraves Beach and Pelican Beach has been declared a National Surfing Reserve. Surfing unites young and old and creates a shared respect and desire to protect the beaches that provide so much joy to so many. To see the young “Grommets” mentored and developed by the seasoned surfers is something to be cherished and celebrated. We even have “Surfing Santa” making regular appearances.
This area has a rich history from the early timber days and the jetty at Cabbage Tree Harbour, the historic Norah Head Lighthouse and the many shipwrecks dotted along the coastline, but the remarkable surf breaks that are featured along this section of the
coast are truly iconic. I acknowledge those First Nations people, the early settlers, the fisherman, the Norah Head Surfing Fraternity, Women in Waves and Soldiers Beach Surf Life Saving Club members, all who have contributed to the life and preservation of this incredible location on the NSW Coastline.
There have been battles fought to protect this valuable environment over the years, and the community comes together once again to celebrate its inclusion as a National Surf Reserve. This unique ribbon of coastline includes nine beach breaks, two point breaks, three bomboras and two reef breaks. It has nurtured State and National champions on both shortboars and longboards. It is cherished by both locals and visitors alike.
This area’s recreational, environmental, historical, sporting and cultural value is truly worthy of inclusion as a National Surf Reserve. It ticks every box, and I commend the community for their diligent efforts in achieving this recognition and status.
Mr David Harris, MP
Member for Wyong, New South Wales
