Terms & Conditions

Terms & Conditions

These Terms & Conditions govern your participation in any surf lesson, program, or course (“the Program”) offered by Dawn Surf Co. (“the Organisers”).

By enrolling in a Program, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to the following:

1. Definitions

“Organisers” means Dawn Surf Co., its instructors and employees, Surfing Australia Ltd (“SA”), SA-affiliated state surfing associations, and their respective directors, officers, members, servants or agents.

2. Assumption of Risk

Participating in the Program carries inherent risks. Surfing can be dangerous, and serious accidents may occur, including injury or death. Risks include, but are not limited to, drowning, contact with boards, rocks, or other participants, and conditions such as surfer’s myelopathy (a rare condition causing paralysis due to hyperextension of the spine). By participating, you voluntarily assume these risks.

3. Physical Fitness & Medical Conditions

You declare that you are physically and medically fit to participate. You agree not to participate if you have any illness, injury, or condition that may affect your safety unless disclosed to and approved by the Organisers. You agree to notify us immediately of any changes to your health status.

4. Swimming Competency

All participants must be able to swim at least 50 metres in open water unassisted and without touching the bottom. You acknowledge that failure to meet this requirement increases the risk of harm and may result in exclusion from the Program without refund.

5. Instructions & Conduct

You agree to follow all instructions, safety briefings, and beach protocols provided by the Organisers. Disruptive or unsafe behaviour may result in immediate removal from the Program without refund.

Participants who arrive under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be permitted to join the lesson and will not be entitled to a refund. This is to ensure your safety, the safety of others, and the quality of instruction provided.

6. Theft & Personal Belongings

The Organisers will provide a lock box for personal valuables, which will be stored securely inside the instructor’s vehicle and kept out of sight. The vehicle key will remain on the instructor’s person in a waterproof pouch at all times.

In some instances, key lock boxes may be provided to clients to enable self-transport to designated surf spots. While these are provided for convenience, Dawn Surf Co. accepts no responsibility for the loss, theft, or damage of any personal property, including but not limited to belongings left in lock boxes, vehicles, or on the beach. Clients are encouraged to bring only essential items and take all reasonable precautions to protect their valuables.

7. Medical Treatment

You authorise the Organisers to seek emergency medical or hospital treatment (including ambulance services) if necessary and agree to cover all associated costs.

8. Release & Indemnity

Your participation is at your own risk. To the maximum extent permitted by law:

  • You release and forever discharge the Organisers from all liability and claims arising from your participation; and

  • You indemnify and hold harmless the Organisers from any claims made by third parties arising from your actions.

“Claims” includes all actions, suits, proceedings, demands, damages, costs, and expenses (including for negligence and breach of statutory duty).

9. Photographic Consent

You consent to the use of any photographic or video images taken of you during the Program for the purposes of promoting Dawn Surf Co.

10. Privacy

The personal information you provide will be used solely for the operation of the Program and related communications. Your data will not be shared with third parties and may be accessed upon request.

11. Reporting

You have the right to report any unsafe practices or negligence by the Coach or Organisers to Surfing Australia or relevant authorities.

12. Cancellation Policy

We run small-group sessions with limited spots to ensure the best possible experience. Because of this, cancellations impact our ability to operate fairly and sustainably. Please review the policy for your type of booking:

Private Lessons

  • More than 3 days before lesson: Full refund

  • Less than 72 hours before lesson: No refund

Group Lessons

  • More than 24 Hours before lesson: Full refund

  • Less than 24 hours before lesson: No refund

13. Weather Policy

Lessons go ahead in light rain and mild conditions, as this does not affect the quality of the surf. However, if conditions are deemed unsafe (e.g. lightning, severe storms, dangerous surf, poor visibility), we will cancel or reschedule your lesson. You will be notified by text or email on the day if there are any changes.

14. Damage to Equipment

You are responsible for using all provided equipment (surfboards, wetsuits, etc.) with care. You agree to cover the cost of any intentional or negligent damage caused to equipment during the Program.

15. Agreement

By booking and participating in a lesson or course, you confirm that:

  • You have read and understood these Terms & Conditions

  • You accept all associated risks

  • You agree to abide by the Code of Conduct and Cancellation Policy

16. Complaints & Feedback

We take your safety, comfort, and satisfaction seriously. If you have a concern, complaint, or private feedback, you may submit it at any time using the confidential reporting form included in your booking confirmation email.

Reports may be submitted anonymously or with your contact details if you’d like a follow-up. All submissions are reviewed confidentially.