18 May 2022

Lotterywest grant ‘drives’ children with autism to become Ocean Heroes

Ocean Heroes, a volunteer-program teaching children with autism to surf, is now able to expand the reach of the program with a new vehicle thanks to the support of a $60,000 Lotterywest grant. 

The vehicle will support expanding Ocean Heroes events to regional WA, transporting volunteers and equipment to events throughout the year.

Ocean Heroes Co-Founder, Sam Moyle, said volunteers are the heart and soul of the organisation.

“They’re absolutely vital. Without them we wouldn’t be able to run our program, whether they’re out on the water, on the beach or behind the scenes,” he said.

“We’ve had over 1000 volunteers since we started, and every volunteer has their own reason for being part of the program, but they all want to contribute and make a difference.”

“It’s pretty incredible, the impact you can have in a half hour session.”

“The support from Lotterywest has been amazing. It’s so much more than funding equipment, it enables us to provide the kids with an opportunity to build self-confidence, boost self-esteem and make connections with others in a supportive and fun environment,” he said.

Lotterywest and Healthway Acting CEO, Lorna Pritchard said this year’s National Volunteer Week theme, Better Together, goes hand in hand with Lotterywest’s vision to build a better Western Australia together.

“Volunteering builds communities and creates a better society for those within it and Ocean Heroes is a great example of that.”

Ocean Heroes host events all-year round across the state with the next opportunity for children with autism to become Ocean Heroes on Sunday 5 June 2022 in Geraldton.

Lotterywest is the only lottery in Australia where all profits are returned back to the community via its grants program. Thanks to the people who play Lotterywest games the organisation is able to support grassroots and community initiatives that make WA a great place to live.

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Media Enquiries: Lisa Williams and Alana Christian 0438 996 884