Giving a Nipper experience to all

Wanda Surf Lifesaving Club
Patient. Kind. Inclusive

Denny Rowlands is the driving force behind the Red Fins Nippers program that welcomes children of all abilities to the Wanda Surf Lifesaving Club.

Denny is a respected member of the club and set up the program in 2018 with just six members. Since then, it has grown to 37 children.

The volunteer-run program accommodates the needs of every child, whose challenges include autism, physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities, visual impairment and hearing loss.

The children thrive in the supportive environment, and their families feel welcome as part of the Wanda community.

It is a testament to Denny’s vision that the Red Fins held the biggest inclusive program along the Bate Bay Beaches this Nipper season.

Denny’s has his own children with Autism, who are thriving in the program. It’s an ongoing learning experience for him as he learns as much as he can about the needs of all the participants.

“I'm inspired by the determination of the kids, who overcome their barriers each weekend, and I'm inspired by my children to be the person I need to be for them,” says Denny.

He’s humbled to be nominated as a Westfield Local Hero. “There are many people in the community doing positive things for those around them, and I feel honoured to be included with them,” says Denny.

Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities, with the three top finalists per Westfield centre each awarded a $10,000 grant for their affiliated organisation. Wanda Surf Lifesaving Club will use its funds to buy a beach wheelchair, modified Nipper boards, and subsidise the Nipper fees for cash-strapped families.

For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here