BETTER TOGETHER

The sun was setting, a warm breeze drifting through Tea Tree. Birds called out over the distant sound of waves breaking on the outer bank. A quiet, ordinary evening.

I sat down, pulled out my camera. Nothing stood out—until one guy caught a wave. His friend snaked him, laughing. A girl saw it happen, paddled over, and as they floated far from the whitewater, she took off on the same wave, yelling, "It’s mine!"

Their energy was contagious. The lineup turned to watch. A failed high-five, more laughter. Two surfers paddling back to the point saw the moment unfold and, without hesitation, joined in. Five people, one wave. No competition, no rush—just pure joy.

A reminder that some things are just better together.