Two Different Journeys. One Shared Vision.
While Dan and Nathan come from different professional backgrounds, they share the same belief:
Everyone deserves the opportunity to discover their strengths, build confidence and create a meaningful future.
Together, they founded Sunny Boys to create more than an NDIS service—they created a welcoming community where participants can experience practical learning, genuine friendships and real opportunities to grow.
Our Team
The Sunny Boys team is led by Nathan Cookson and Dan Dzufer, co-founders with a shared passion for empowering young people through practical, hands-on learning and community-focused support.
Meet Nathan Cookson
Co-founder | Sunny Boys
Nathan Cookson has proudly called the Sunshine Coast home for more than 45 years. As Co-founder of Sunny Boys, he is passionate about creating a safe, welcoming and supportive environment where participants can build confidence, develop independence and achieve their personal goals.
Nathan has dedicated more than 40 years to Surf Life Saving, serving with both Maroochydore and Mooloolaba Surf Life Saving Clubs. As a successful competitor, active patrol member and mentor, he developed a lifelong commitment to protecting others, building resilience and supporting his community.
His professional career reflects that same commitment to safety and service. Nathan served as a professional firefighter for 14 years, holds an Advanced Diploma in Occupational Health & Safety, and has spent recent years delivering nationally recognised first aid training while supporting people within the aged care
and NDIS sectors.
Nathan's passion for mentoring extends well beyond his professional career. Through many years of coaching junior sport and working alongside young people, he has helped others develop confidence, resilience and the skills needed to succeed both on and off the field.
Today, Nathan brings together his experience in emergency services, health and safety, first aid, disability support and community leadership to help shape the culture of Sunny Boys—a place where participants are encouraged to feel safe, valued and empowered to discover their strengths.
Away from work, Nathan enjoys spending time with his family and friends and has a lifelong passion for sport and the outdoors. His positive outlook, compassion and commitment to helping others continue to inspire the caring, respectful and community-focused culture that defines Sunny Boys.
"Creating a safe environment is only the beginning. Our goal is to give every participant the confidence, encouragement and opportunities to discover their strengths and build a future they can be proud of."
Meet Dan Dzufer
Co-founder | Sunny Boys
Born and raised on the Sunshine Coast, Dan Dzufer has a strong connection to the local community and a genuine passion for helping people discover their strengths and achieve their full potential.
As Co-founder of Sunny Boys, Dan is committed to creating opportunities where participants feel welcomed, respected and empowered to build confidence, independence and meaningful pathways towards employment and everyday life.
A qualified electrician with extensive experience in the construction industry, Dan combines practical workplace knowledge with a passion for mentoring others. His vision has helped shape Sunny Boys' unique Mechanical, Construction, Digital and Café & Hospitality Skills Programs, providing participants with real-world experiences that develop practical skills, confidence and workplace readiness.
Before establishing Sunny Boys, Dan represented both Caloundra and Maroochydore in AFL and spent time with the Brisbane Lions. His sporting journey, together with many years of coaching and mentoring young people, instilled the values of teamwork, resilience, discipline and leadership that continue to guide the culture of Sunny Boys today.
Away from work, Dan is a devoted husband and proud father. Family remains at the heart of everything he does and continues to inspire the caring, respectful and community-focused culture that defines Sunny Boys.
"At Sunny Boys, we believe every person has strengths waiting to be discovered. Our role is to provide the encouragement, practical experiences and opportunities that help people build confidence, independence and create a brighter future."
Integrity
We uphold the highest standards of honesty and transparency in every interaction, ensuring trust is the foundation of our community.
Community
We believe in building strong, supportive networks that empower participants to thrive and participate fully in the Sunshine Coast community.
Our Core Values
Guiding our journey with purpose and heart.
Respect
We value every individual's unique strengths and perspectives, fostering a safe and inclusive environment where everyone is heard and valued.
Opportunity
We provide the practical skills and confidence needed to unlock real-world pathways and create a future where every participant can shine.
Safety
Our primary focus is on creating a secure environment where participants can learn and grow without the fear of risk or harm.
JOIN THE COMMUNITY
Start Your Journey Today
Ready to discover new strengths and build practical skills? Visit our purpose-built facility on the Sunshine Coast and see how we celebrate every achievement.