Woonona Boardriders call for help after fire destroys club trailer
The club's sponsor liaison officer, Nathan McEwan, said it was "devastating news" and issued an appeal for help
More than $1000 has already been raised to support Woonona Boardriders after the club reported an overnight "arson attack" had destroyed its trailer and all the essential sporting equipment inside.
The club's sponsor liaison officer, Nathan McEwan, said it was "devastating news" and issued an appeal for help.
"Last night at approx 4.30am this morning, this happened to my beloved Woonona Boardriders Club," Nathan wrote in his appeal to sponsors and friends.
"Our entire club’s assets were incinerated in a senseless vile vandal attack at the adjacent Ocean Park."
Fire destroyed the club's trailer. Photos: Nathan McEwan
Nathan shared photos of the burnt-out van which he said contained gear worth more than $40,000, including all of the club's tents, safety equipment, rescue gear, defibrillator, SharkBite kit, tables, chairs, BBQ, speakers, PA gear, generator and flags.
With third 2026 Ocean Queen Classic – the Illawarra's only all-women surfing competition – just weeks away on 28 March, Nathan said the club urgently needs funding, security and support.
"We are volunteers, non-for-profit, local people that only work to preserve our section of the beach/ocean, keep it safe and clean and promote surfing in our region… we have built up our kit and inventory over 52 years, to now be GONE!"
The club declared the "show will go on" and is raising money via a GoFundMe campaign titled Help Woonona Boardriders Rebuild After Arson Attack.
Contributions will help buy a new event trailer, competition and judging equipment, electrical gear, speakers and event set-up infrastructure.
