Australian of the Year

For 23 years, Mark Skinner has been raising funds to support children with serious disabilities, helping around 100 Sunshine Coast families each year. 

It all started when Mark and two mates put on a surf competition to raise funds so that a friend's son, who has Down Syndrome, could compete at an international swimming event. The following year, they registered their surf competition as a charity and, since then, Surf for Kids has raised $8 million for specialised wheelchairs, mobility equipment, assessments, therapy and respite care.  

Surf for Kids recently funded 10 wheelchair‑fitted vehicles to enable families to attend vital medical appointments, therapy, school and community activities. Surf for Kids stays with each family, providing support until their child becomes an adult. 

Under Mark’s leadership, the volunteer‑run organisation has become one of the region’s most respected charities. Through his determination, Mark has mobilised thousands to rally around the culture of generosity he has created.