Bold opening: Love took center stage on Valentine’s Day as hundreds flooded a northern New South Wales beach to celebrate inclusivity in a lively paddle-out.
In Port Macquarie, off Flynn’s Beach, surfers and swimmers joined what organizers believe was the region’s first unofficial world-record attempt for a “pride paddle out,” part of Rainbow Beaches’ nationwide inclusivity events that drew thousands across Australia.
Organizers describe the Port Macquarie event as a milestone for regional areas, drawing participants from diverse backgrounds and abilities to show that this Valentine’s Day, love indeed has many forms. Lifesavers with Pride chair Jake Little of the Port Macquarie Surf Club emphasized that the day was about bringing the community together and broadcasting the simple message: love is love. He also addressed a common myth about lifesaving, noting that being a lifesaver isn’t about swimming prowess alone—having a place on the beach is what matters.
Volunteer Michael Lord, who uses a wheelchair and sports a rainbow mohawk, highlighted the club’s inclusive culture: from day one, he felt welcome, included, and valued. He stressed that the event wasn’t just for people with pride but for minority groups, people with disabilities, and anyone who has ever felt they didn’t belong.
Simon Ceglinski, Brunswick Surf Life Saving Club’s patrol captain and this year’s Rainbow Beaches lead, reflected on the organization’s evolution since he joined in 1985. He recalled welcome expansion—from women patrols to broader equality on the sand—and expressed pride in how open and inclusive the club has become. He also shared a personal note about celebrating Valentine’s Day with his partner, Chris Ashton, who is now a patrolling member after joining 15 years ago.
The event also drew support from other community groups, who encouraged locals to embrace the water and feel welcome at the beach. Genelle Warne, associated with the Bad-ass Body Boarders (also calling some members Wrinkled Warriors), explained the group’s mission to include women and men alike in enjoyable sessions on the surf. The group emphasizes inclusivity, with regular participation from both men and women, reinforcing the message that the beach is for everyone to enjoy together.
Overall, the day showcased a blend of pride, community spirit, and shared passion for the ocean, while inviting ongoing discussion about inclusivity and safety in lifeguarded spaces. Would you like this rewritten version to lean more toward a newsy report style or a feature-angle narrative? Also, should we add a brief call-to-action inviting readers to share their own experiences in the comments?
