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Bubblemaker - scuba access for children with disabilities

Warringah City Council's Aquatic Centre has opened up a new world to children with disabilities, with a pilot Bubblemaker session held in March. Mayor of Warringah Peter Moxham said the Bubblemaker project, based on a highly successful program operating in the United States, gives children with disabilities a safe and fun scuba diving adventure free of charge.

"Each child spent about 15 minutes underwater, the exhilaration of scuba diving in a weightless environment giving them an unforgettable experience and a great boost to their self confidence," he said.

Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) Training Manager, Richard Evans, said scuba diving provided an ideal environment for children with disabilities to explore new capabilities for the first time.

He said the weightless environment allows them to explore new ways of moving and propelling themselves and is especially fun for children with hearing, visual and mild intellectual disabilities.

Two fifteen minute training sessions and individual skill evaluation tests were given to 36 children from across NSW who took part in the course. They were then given an introductory water tour with their instructor followed by 15 minutes of free play under instructor supervision.

It is hoped the pilot session will encourage many of the children to further develop their scuba diving skills. Council is hoping to make the introductory sessions an annual event. The program was jointly sponsored by the Council, the Aquatic Centre and the Lions Club of Frenchs Forest.

For further information contact Manager Warringah Aquatic Centre, Gary Penfold, telephone (02) 9451 8000

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