At the end of each school year students at Eden Marine High take part in a three day surfing and marine studies course at a Merimbula beach. 

The three days culminate with the award of the Jason Bush Memorial Trophy.  Jason Bush was a former Eden Marine High School student who drowned in 1999. 

Surfing co-ordinator at the school, Bernie Langford said the trophy is a way in which the school can keep Jason’s memory alive. 

Mr Langford, who taught Jason when he was at school, has been running the surf program and giving out the Jason Bush Memorial Trophy to the group’s most respectful and enthusiastic surfer for 16 years.

Ms Bush said this felt particularly significant because the program had been running for the same amount of years that her son had been alive. 

“It is very humbling, I’m proud that it is still going 16 years later, it still brings tears to my eyes,” she said. 

“I stand here and I can still see five boys going in and only four boys coming out.”

Supported by her daughters and grandchildren, Ms Bush took the opportunity to give the Eden High students some advice. 

“Most of these children are only hearing about Jason second hand, so it was important for me to make sure they know that someone can be here one day and gone the next.

“They need to take care of each other, they need to surf safe and not take risks in the ocean.”

The students spent three days learning about beach awareness, first aid and surfing skills. 

This year the trophy was awarded to Josh Boundy.

“The trophy isn’t about who is the best surfer. It's about looking after the group, not dropping in on people and just being respectful in the water," Mr Langford said. 

As well as the Trophy there were many other prizes given to the other students.

 Mr Langford thanked Simon Emms at Merimbula Surf Shop and the Merimbula Sailboard Club, who have been long-term supporters and donated hundred of dollars worth of prizes. 

Mr Langford encouraged everyone to get out and enjoy the water over summer, but to stay safe.