Lighthouse Beach, Port Macquarie will once again host Autism Swim’s inclusive beach and ocean safety program, Dippers, delivered in partnership with Tacking Point Surf Life Saving Club and supported by Autism Swim trained volunteers and clinicians.
As Australia enters peak summer, demand for safe and accessible beach environments is at its highest.
Children on the autism spectrum are significantly overrepresented in drowning statistics, with research showing they are up to 160 times more likely to drown than their neurotypical peers.
Dippers was created to respond to this risk by providing inclusive, community-based beach and ocean safety education in real coastal settings.
Now in its tenth year nationally, the Dippers program has become a recognised example of how inclusive practice can be delivered in community aquatic programs.
Dippers was also created to ensure neurodivergent participants and those with diverse support needs can access the same opportunities offered through community beach and ocean safety programs, in a way that feels safe, achievable and supportive.
“Lighthouse Beach is a much-loved local beach with a strong connection to the Port Macquarie community, and we’re proud to be delivering Dippers in this location,” said Antoinette Spear, General Manager of Autism Swim. “The program helps ensure more people can safely access and enjoy the ocean, while building confidence, connection and essential beach safety skills in ways that work for them.”
Dippers at Lighthouse Beach will commence in late January 2026.
Proven outcomes with local impact
Autism Swim’s most recent annual reporting highlights the impact of the Dippers program. In the 2025 season, Dippers supported 68 participants, delivered 39 sessions, and engaged 185 trained volunteers across multiple locations. Family feedback indicated that 95 per cent of participants achieved their individual goals, with the program receiving an overall rating of 9.75 out of 10.
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