Pride Paddle Out Breaks Record at NSW Beach

Hundreds of beachgoers paddled into the waves at Flynn's Beach in Port Macquarie this Valentine's Day, creating what organizers believe was a world record for the largest pride paddle out.

The event brought together surf lifesavers from across Australia, LGBTQIA+ community members, and people with disabilities for a celebration of inclusion. Before taking to the water, participants formed a giant heart shape on the sand.

"Today was just about getting our community together, all different parts of our community to say this Valentine's Day, love is love," said Jake Little, organizer and chair of Lifesavers with Pride at Port Macquarie Surf Club. It marked the first major Rainbow Beaches event held in a regional Australian area.

Michael Lord, a volunteer radio operator who uses a wheelchair and sports a rainbow mohawk, said the surf club welcomed him from day one. "I was made to feel welcome, I was made to feel included, and I was made to feel valued, and to me that's incredible," he said.

The message resonated beyond pride, extending to anyone who feels they don't belong. Lord emphasized that you don't need to swim to be a lifesaver—there's a role on the beach for everyone.

The Ripple Effect

The transformation of surf lifesaving culture shows how far inclusion has come. Simon Ceglinski, Brunswick Surf Life Saving Club patrol captain, has been a member since 1985 and witnessed massive change.

"Now women can patrol, we're accepted as equals on the beach, the leap forward has been enormous for our organisation," Ceglinski said. He now patrols alongside his partner Chris Ashton, who joined 15 years ago after they met.

Other community groups joined the celebration too. The Bad-ass Body Boarders and Wrinkled Warriors showed up to support the club and encourage everyone to embrace their love of the water, regardless of age or ability.

The Valentine's Day event was part of thousands participating in Rainbow Beaches inclusivity events across Australia, spreading the message that beaches belong to everyone.