Ant and the Power of Inclusive Surfing

If you have spent any time in the South West community, chances are you have come across Ant.

He is truly a man of many hats and has been part of the region for a long time, giving his time, energy and heart to helping people feel connected.

Ant is one of our incredible D Connect Community Mentors. He also plays a leading role locally with the Disabled Surfers Association of Australia, a not for profit, entirely volunteer run organisation that sets world’s best practice for inclusive surfing and proudly puts “Smiles On Dials” at events across Australia and New Zealand.

More Than Just a Day at the Beach

The Disabled Surfers Association creates opportunities for people living with disability to experience the joy of surfing in a safe, supported and inclusive environment.

These events are not just about getting in the water.

They are about confidence.
Connection.
Fresh air.
Laughter.
And that unbeatable feeling of catching a wave together.

For many people, opportunities like this open the door to new experiences, build friendships and strengthen a sense of belonging. There is something powerful about being out in the ocean surrounded by a team of volunteers who are there purely to support your experience.

Ant brings patience, encouragement and genuine care to everything he does. He helps create a space where people feel welcome, capable and supported. Families feel at ease. Participants feel empowered. The beach becomes a place of possibility.

Let’s Go Surfing Day

There are two upcoming “Let’s Go Surfing Day” events at Bunker Bay:

• February 15 at 9:30am
• March 7 at 9:30am

These days are filled with energy, teamwork and celebration. Whether it is someone catching their very first wave or returning for another session, the focus is always on inclusion, safety and fun.

Community in Action

At D Connect, we believe that strong, inclusive communities are built through connection and opportunity. Ant’s work with the Disabled Surfers Association reflects exactly that. It is about creating spaces where people living with disability can participate fully, try something new and feel part of something bigger.

When community members step up the way Ant does, barriers shrink. Confidence grows. Belonging strengthens.

If you are able to make it, we highly recommend checking out a surfing session. It is a fantastic way to meet people, experience something different and be part of a supportive community environment.

For more details about upcoming events, visit the Disabled Surfers Association’s Facebook page.

Because when people like Ant lead with inclusion, we all move closer to making the South West the most inclusive and accessible region in Australia.

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