I speak today about an outstanding young surf lifesaver from Redhead Surf Life Saving Club who suffered a tragic accident last Thursday. Jessica Collins, aged 24 and a former Australian surf life saving representative, has no feeling below her shoulders after fracturing the C5 vertebra and damaging her spinal cord while surfing with friends on the Gold Coast. She had bone-fusion surgery on Friday night and remains in the intensive care unit at Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane. Her father, Peter, said Jess is inspiring family and friends with her strength while facing the prospect of never walking again. He said she is facing a very hard and long road but her amazing will and positive attitude were shining through. Parents Peter and Sandy, her brother, Daniel, and sister Emma have spent time by Jessica's side since Thursday and hope to bring her home to Newcastle in the coming weeks to continue her rehabilitation. My thoughts and prayers are with Jess and her family, and the extended Redhead Surf Life Saving Club family at this very difficult time.