Each National Surfing Reserve has its own unique waves, social and surfing history. That is what makes them special to those who surf there, live near them and visit them.
The opening of each National Surfing Reserve is commemorated with a dedication ceremony and the unveiling of a plaque.
Local Steering Committees (LSC) have the task of trying to capture the characteristics, events and people that define a particular surfing reserve in text on their plaque. There is space for very few words so it is a fun and challenging task that requires careful word-smithing and a keen understanding of the reserve and its links to the community.
The plaque will present a greater picture of what a National Surfing Reserve means if it includes a statement of relevance to the widest range of people. Obviously it should focus primarily on surfing, but it could also include recognition of the traditional owners and the local surf break/s.
Most plaques to date have included a simple line sketch that captures the surfing reserve. production.
Template
All plaques have been cast using a template. This ensures plaques are achievable, cost-effective and it creates a link between reserves. Some of the text on plaques remains the same. This helps to ensure the message about National Surfing Reserves is consistent.
Materials
Most plaques are round and 400mm diameter and are cast in bronze. The Kalbarri plaque is 500 mm in diameter and made of stainless steel.
Casting
Once you have designed your plaque it should be forwarded to your NSR rep to have cast. It should be finalised in pdf format.
Obtain 3 quotes from foundries and contract a reliable and reputable company to produce your plaque. You will need to be clear with the foundry when and where you will need delivery of the product.
The foundry will need at least 6 weeks to cast your plaque. Always allow sufficient time to ensure you can get another print run done in case of emergency.
Setting
While your plaque is being cast you will need to arrange for a suitable setting for your plaque. Generally plaques are set in a local stone with some examples shown in Figure 3. You will need to liaise with your local Council to determine if there are any planning requirements for plaques.
They will need to know where you want to set the plaque and what it will be set in.
Once you have a suitable stone and location selected you should have a recess carved in the rock for the plaque to set in. The recess should be carved to exactly 400mm diameter to ensure a very neat fit for the plaque. It should be carved to a depth of 20mm and the recess face should be level and smooth.
Once your plaque arrives you should check the fit and adjust your recess to suit. Once set the plaque should be flush with the rock face.
You should not set your plaque until the morning of the dedication day to avoid vandalisms or theft.
It is also advisable to delay setting your plaque in case of bad weather for the dedication ceremony. If the plaque has not been set it can be taken to your alternate weather venue to be unveiled.
If you are lucky enough to have clear weather, on the morning of the dedication day set your plaque using chemical cement (Chemset). You can get this from any hardware store.
It will take about 1 hour to dry. Stand back and admire your handiwork!