A woman who emigrated from Poland to Lake Mac to start a ‘soulful’ surf school helping women ride waves – and the rollercoaster of life – is among the featured faces of a new exhibition on display from today.
Women Soulful Surf founder Helena Richardson has welcomed more than 400 participants to her school since it opened.
The Caves Beach local came up with the idea for the surf school after having a baby, struggling with confidence and seeking out a supportive female community.
“I realised there are many women who go through the same thing I did, and I wanted to offer them a safe and fun space where they can learn to surf and improve their skills,” Ms Richardson said.
“We hear it very often from the different ladies who join us – they just love the community spirit, the support from everyone and the very nurturing environment.”
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said the Humble Heroes campaign aimed to celebrate people working tirelessly without fanfare to make a difference in the community and at Lake Macquarie City Council.
Photographic portraits of each ‘hero’ will be on outdoor display along the foreshore at Warners Bay and Toronto from 14-28 November, with QR codes linking to the stories behind the faces.
Young Citizen of the Year Xavier Neil, whose soap-making business sends proceeds to support cancer research, veteran Meals on Wheels volunteer Jean Thirkettle and Council’s Community Development Officer Emilie Wiggers are among the others included in the exhibition.
Ms Wiggers was included for her work with community organisations across Lake Mac, promoting multiculturalism and addressing issues surrounding mental health and homelessness.
“My passion leads me to always put my hand up and help others,” she said.
“If a task will have a positive community impact, then I can’t ignore it.”
Cr Fraser said the first instalment of the Humble Heroes exhibition, displayed in 2021, received positive feedback and was nominated as a finalist in the 2022 Local Government Week Awards, and the AMI Awards for Marketing Excellence.
“We’re fortunate to have so many passionate, dedicated people making Lake Mac a better place,” Cr Fraser said.
“This is a small way we can show our appreciation and shed some light on the people whose efforts should be applauded by everyone.”
Go to to find out more about this year’s Humble Heroes.
