The talented body-boarder was injured in the surf off Bawley Point last Wednesday after wiping at a break notorious for big barrels in shallow water over rock.

With suspected spinal injuries, Damo was airlifted to the Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney.

After consultations with the specialist Spinal Care Unit at the hospital, Damo received some good news.

While he fractured six vertebrae in his spine, vertebrae T4 to T8, L3 and L5, along with fracturing several ribs and sustaining cuts and bruises, Damo was fortunate to sustain no nerve damage.

“The doctors have told me how lucky I am to be up and about for what I have done to myself,” Damo told the Times.

Damo was allowed to return home over the weekend but will have ongoing check ups over the next few months.

He is facing six to eight weeks in a back brace but is optimistic about his recovery.

“I am hoping to be in the water as soon as the brace comes off - as long as I am fit and ready,” he said.

“I don’t think there is much out there to stop me from doing what I love.”

He was overwhelmed by the support shown by the local community and the number of comments received on Facebook.

“I was really over whelmed with how many people have gotten in contact with me, the well wishes and guys who have been through something of the of their own and have shared advice for a quick road to recovery, which I can't thank everyone enough for! ” Damo said.

“It is always great to be home and to have a great support network down here.

“Everyone cares and are willing to help.”