Eden Marine High students ended their school year with a morning surf on Friday in memory of former student Jason Bush, who sadly drowned in 1999.
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The annual event took place at Short Point where students enjoyed the clean conditions and small fun waves.
The event has had long-term support from the Merimbula Sailboard Club and Simon Emms from Merimbula Surf Shop who have donated hundreds of dollars worth of merchandise as prizes each year.
After students had spent two hours in the water, school surfing coordinator Bernie Langford awarded the event winners.
“The event isn't just about trying to surf well, its about trying to encourage looking after each other, a healthy lifestyle and hanging out with friends,” Mr Langford said.
The Jason Bush Memorial Trophy was awarded to Rowan Kelley who had used plenty of initiative throughout the year and set a good example on the day helping to set up and assist where needed.
Charlie Buckingham was awarded second place, Annie Gilbert placed third.
Encouragement awards went to Morgan Chapple, Tom Morris and Jess Bird.
The event ran in conjunction with the school surf program and the school’s marine studies unit.
Students passed a fitness test in order to participate in the program.
The program involved lessons on surf safety and awareness, rescue skills and general knowledge of the beach environment.
The event was a great way to sum up the student skills they had learnt over the year, as well as coming together to remember one of their own, Jason Bush.
“It was a great way for the kids to end the year,” Mr Langford said.