Following the success of Noosa’s first Ocean Heroes surfing workshop earlier this year, the team has now locked in four more local events to keep the stoke alive for people on the autism spectrum.
Noosa Vibe House owners Cat and Zeb Aitken have jumped on board as charity partners for all four dates, and their son River can’t wait for the next event at Noosa Main Beach West on Saturday 23 November.
“The May event was so incredibly special – the kids were just beaming with happiness and pride, it’s something we’ll never forget,” Cat said.
“The fact that even more families can experience the Ocean Heroes magic right here in Noosa is a great feeling.”
Working as a Marine Scientist since 2013, Sam Moyle co-founded the charity in 2016, which offers free surf workshops for children on the autism spectrum.
“Once we had enough demand and could see a real pathway to sustainability, I resigned from my job at the time and never looked back,” he said.
“Although it’s the perfect location for an event, Noosa hadn’t been on our radar for 2024. We were focused on building the footprint of events in NSW and then systematically growing from there. However, when Zeb and Cat from Noosa Vibe House reached out to us with their story and commitment to build Ocean Heroes into Queensland, we couldn’t resist! They’ve been instrumental in getting us setup on the ground and seen in the community.”
Sam said their first Noosa event in May was better than they’d ever expected.
“From the minute we stepped into town, New York Minute were feeding the volunteers and welcoming us with open arms,” he said.
“On event day, we had coffees from Sunshine Social and burritos by Luuna Cartel, local music and a steady stream of local volunteers.
“Looking after our volunteers is a key part of what we do, and the local community made sure of that.”
It means everything to their team to have community partners like Noosa Vibe House supporting the organisation.
“Without their support, these events wouldn’t be possible,” Sam said.
“Not only do they come down and volunteer on the day, they’re ambassadors and advocate Ocean Heroes throughout the community.”
Becoming charity partners was a natural fit for Cat and Zeb Aitken, both as parents of a neurodivergent child and as business consultants who love working with people doing great things.
“The Ocean Heroes team are truly amazing – they are so passionate about creating these awesome moments for the kids and it’s apparent in everything they do,” Cat said.
“On top of that, they’re also building a wonderful community of volunteers and businesses who want to get involved and show support in different ways – I think people are naturally drawn to the cause and the inspirational people behind it, so you have this beautiful coming together of like-minded people wanting to make a positive impact. It’s a really fantastic thing to be part of.”
River Aitken absolutely loved the May event.
“He was so genuinely happy and relaxed which was really moving for us as parents as we know how overwhelming unfamiliar situations can be for him,” Cat said.
“From the first moment he met Sam and Hayley (Sam’s partner who also volunteers for the charity) he adored them, they treated him with such kindness and respect and made him feel really special.
“The entire Ocean Heroes team are just so natural with the kids, they have given such thoughtful consideration to their needs and challenges, and as a result the participants feel very supported and confident even as they step out of their comfort zone.”
If you’re thinking about volunteering with Ocean Heroes, they’d love to have you along.
You don’t need to surf to help out, there’s lots of roles on the beach for those wanting to stay dry. It doesn’t matter your age or your ability, they’re an inclusive organisation that prides themselves on their volunteering experience.
Email sam@oceanheroes.com.au for more information.
The next event will be held at Noosa Main Beach West on Saturday 23 November with three more to follow in 2025 on 17 May, 26 and 27 July and 22 November. Visit oceanheroes.com.au
