An inclusive surf program in Albany, Western Australia, is providing community and skill development opportunities for individuals, including those participating in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
Program Overview
Max Forster-Ross, a participant, stated he has been involved with the program for a year and a half, crediting it with increasing his social engagement and improving his well-being. He now surfs three times a week.
Sascha's Surf Experience, founded by Sascha de Lacy-Koenig, runs two integrated programs:
- An NDIS surf program designed to help participants achieve life goals through surfing.
- An open surf stream, accessible to anyone.
Both groups regularly surf together, promoting connection regardless of background. De Lacy-Koenig emphasizes that surfing helps participants develop decision-making skills by choosing waves and equipment, skills which can be applied to daily life.
Participant Experiences
Monique Blaikie described her experience as transformative. Initially fearful of water, she now identifies as an "ocean person" after a year with the program. She values the community aspect, noting that participants support and encourage each other.
Riley Coffey joined to learn surfing with his son and has taken on a mentorship role for younger NDIS participants. He highlights surfing's non-competitive nature, which he finds allows for personal enjoyment and development, unlike other sports he experienced growing up.