18/08/2026
Resilience, Gratitude and Wellbeing: Johnny and Charlie Return to Tweed Heads Police Station
In June 2024, a morning surf at Duranbah Beach became a life-changing event for Gold Coast surfer Johnny Konings. After being thrown from his surfboard and driven into a sandbank by a wave, Johnny suffered catastrophic spinal injuries. Fellow surfers immediately came to his aid, keeping him afloat and stabilised until lifesavers and emergency services arrived. A coordinated response involving lifesavers, NSW Police, NSW Water Police, NSW Ambulance and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter saw Johnny safely rescued and flown to Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane for specialist treatment.
The months that followed brought significant physical, mental and emotional challenges for Johnny and his fiancée, Charlie Gordon. Despite the adversity, they have continued to approach their journey with remarkable resilience and positivity, inspiring thousands of people through their recovery story.
On 2 June 2026, Johnny and Charlie visited Tweed Heads Police Station, where they met with police involved in the response to the incident. During a heartfelt presentation to staff across the Tweed Byron PD, they shared their experiences of the accident, the aftermath and the ongoing recovery journey that has followed.
Johnny and Charlie spoke about the lasting impact the attending police had on them during one of the most traumatic days of their lives. They expressed their sincere gratitude for the calm, compassionate and professional manner demonstrated by officers at the scene, explaining that the reassurance provided by police helped them navigate an overwhelming situation.
They also reflected on a practical act of kindness that has remained with them over the years. Following the incident, police ensured Johnny's vehicle was taken home, removing a significant logistical burden at a time when their focus needed to be solely on his emergency treatment and recovery. While seemingly a small gesture, it lifted a weight from their shoulders and left a lasting impression.
Their presentation was both moving and uplifting, providing a powerful reminder of the positive impact police can have on members of the community during times of crisis. Following the presentation, Charlie delivered a workplace wellness workshop as a renowned presenter in this field, providing staff with practical tools and strategies to support self-regulation, identify potential burnout, and operate optimally in high stress environments such a policing. The session encouraged participants to reflect on their own mental health and build resilience both at work and at home.
This valuable initiative was made possible through funding successfully obtained by Tweed under the NSW Police Force Health, Safety and Wellbeing Command Mental Health Education Grant Program, which supports training aimed at improving mental health literacy and wellbeing across the organisation.
The combination of Johnny and Charlie's inspiring story and Charlie's practical wellness workshop delivered a meaningful and memorable experience for all in attendance. It not only highlighted the profound impact of compassionate policing but also reinforced the importance of investing in the mental health and wellbeing of our people. Tweed Byron Police District sincerely thanks Johnny and Charlie for sharing their remarkable journey and for continuing to inspire others through their resilience, gratitude and commitment to helping people thrive in the face of adversity. We encourage members of the community and our NSW Police Force colleagues to follow their ongoing story through , where they continue to share valuable insights into recovery, resilience and finding purpose after trauma.
