It was all waves and not wipeouts when more than 70 kids with autism hit the surf in Secret Harbour with Ocean Heroes.
Ocean Heroes is a WA-based charity that aims to improve the well-being of youngsters with autism and their families through surfing.
Kelly Betambeau, the mum of six-year-old Evie, said it was fantastic to have Ocean Heroes in Secret Harbour for the first time.
“We actually used to live in Derby, up north, and we used to drive for two and a half hours to go to Broome to take Evie to the annual Ocean Heroes public event,” Ms Betambeau said.
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READ NOW“We moved to Secret Harbour about a year ago, and now we can access it here as well.
“We drove about 30 minutes to get here today and it was so easy for us as a family to make it.
“The conditions were just beautiful for beginners at this beach. Evie’s had an amazing morning. We really can’t wait for more events in Secret Harbour... And there’s also no crocodiles down here, so that’s a bonus.”
Ocean Heroes was founded in 2016 by Sam Moyle, Luke Hallam and Tom Johnston, who saw a much-needed gap in the Autism community.
Since the charity was founded more than 7,500 people with autism have taken part in events held across Perth, regionally in Margaret River, Denmark, Albany, Esperance, Geraldton and Broome, and interstate in NSW and VIC.
Co-Founder of Ocean Heroes Luke Hallam said they were thrilled to have their first event in the Rockingham/Mandurah area.
“Our army of compassionate and dedicated volunteers drove down from Perth to make sure the day was as positive as possible for the families in the region,” he said.
“We’d love to recruit some local volunteers in the area, so if you like the ocean (no surfing experience necessary) and can lend a hand, head to our website to sign up for updates on our next event.”
New families to the program can register for updates at oceanheroes.com.au.