Dolphin Program marks 25 years of splashing success
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Wanneroo Aquamotion’s Dolphin Program will celebrate 25 years of helping children and adults with disabilities and additional needs develop life-saving skills in the water this month.
The celebration coincides with the annual Dolphin Olympics, where participants get to show off their skills, have some fun and receive a medal.
The popular program is currently full at 200 students, with many members signing up more than 10 years ago for the physical and mental benefits and staying for the friendships.
Swimmers are placed into one-on-one or smaller classes based on their needs and can access ramps, chair hoists, a sling hoist and a Pool Pod for lowering wheelchairs.
Mayor Linda Aitken said she acknowledged and celebrated the team members and participants who have helped make the long-running program a success.
“Congratulations to the Dolphin Program for marking a quarter of a century,” she said.
“The highly trained, dedicated, caring and compassionate Aquamotion team are at the heart of this program’s success, providing people with the opportunity to develop essential swimming skills, enhance their fitness and have fun in the water in a supportive and inclusive environment.
“I’m proud that the City of Wanneroo cares for and provides valuable services for all members of our community.”
Dolphin Program swimmer Maddie (10) has Down syndrome and enjoys taking part in one-on-one classes.
She started in the program as a baby with twin sister, Issy, who takes part in Aquamotion’s mainstream swimming lessons.
“Maddie has flourished in the Dolphin Program, it’s her favourite time of the week,” Maddie’s mother, Jaime, said.
“She’s very cheeky and she enjoys coming to Aquamotion and I think her instructors enjoy teaching her too!”
Parent Tamsin’s three children Tristan (16) and twins Jason (11) and Keira (11) have been involved in the Dolphin Program for six years.
“The program supports kids with different needs and the teachers and are so kind, patient and friendly,” Tamsin said.
“The kids often have the same instructor for a long time, which really helps with the continuity of learning.”
Jason and Keira are still enjoying the Dolphin Program, while Tristan has transitioned to mainstream classes at Aquamotion.
Wanneroo Aquamotion is an Autism Swim approved centre and many instructors have completed the Deaf Children Australia’s Puggles Swim Course.