Don't let anybody tell you that you can't effect change in this day and age. Just talk to Steen Barnes and his mates. When the State Government attempted to block access to their local wave they got angry and got active

They called upon all the surfers they'd ever met to join their cause. Then, utilising the internet, they spread the word far and wide, summoning all surfers with a conscience to rally behind them. If it's one thing surfers are passionate about it is their local surf spot. Steen appealed to this sentiment and surfers worldwide replied in kind.

It was a well orchestrated campaign and, in the end, the Government relented, reversing their decision to block foreshore access. Steen and his mates didn't want to change the world, just their little corner of it. And they succeeded.// STUART NETTLE