“A few years ago, my son, who has severe Autism, had to be rescued while swimming at Redcliffe. He’s drawn to the water, as many children with Autism are, but his lack of safety awareness makes him incredibly vulnerable. That day, he dragged his carer out into the deep water, completely unaware of the danger. It was a harrowing experience that left me shaken to my core. My son was safe, thank God, but the fear and helplessness I felt in that moment are feelings I can’t shake.”

“Due to this life-changing event, I no longer allow my son to swim in the ocean like other children. I’ve always encouraged him to explore the things he loves, but experiences like this make me question whether I can ever feel confident letting him enjoy something so simple—something that many families take for granted. It’s a constant battle, and it’s why I’m now fighting for a much-needed change in our community. No parent should have to choose between their child’s happiness and their safety.”

 The Silent Danger for Children with Autism
“As a parent, you hope to see your child grow and thrive. But when your child has complex needs, the world often feels like a minefield. The tragedy of that day wasn’t just the immediate danger but the overwhelming realization that this is a reality for so many families like mine. Children with Autism are 80 times more likely to drown than their neurotypical peers, and in situations like mine, it’s easy to see why.”

“Many children with Autism have no natural fear of water and struggle to understand the risks. They’re drawn to it by its movement, its sound, and the calming effect it has on them. For my son, like many others, it’s an overwhelming impulse, a desire that isn’t tempered by the safety awareness that most children develop over time.”

“When my son was dragged into deep water that day, he wasn’t being reckless. He wasn’t trying to harm anyone. He simply didn’t understand that what he was doing could have ended terribly. It was a terrifying moment of pure helplessness for all of us.”

 The Need for a Safe, Fenced Swimming Area
“That day at Redcliffe was a wake-up call—a stark reminder that we need to create safer environments for children with disabilities and other vulnerable groups. What if there had been a fenced swim enclosure, where children could safely enjoy the water without the constant fear of drowning? What if every parent, whether they have a child with special needs or not, could enjoy peace of mind while their children played in the water?”

“A fenced swim enclosure would not only provide protection for children like mine but for everyone. It would allow people with disabilities, elderly swimmers, and families to relax, knowing there’s a barrier between them and the unpredictable nature of open water. It could become a sanctuary—a place where families and individuals, no matter their needs, could experience the joy of the water safely.”

“The need for this is greater than just one family’s experience. It’s about creating a safe space for all community members. A fenced swim enclosure wouldn’t just protect children with Autism or other disabilities; it would safeguard young children, seniors, and anyone who may be vulnerable in the water. It’s about ensuring every person can enjoy water activities without the constant worry of danger.”

 A Call for Action—For the Safety of Our Families
“As a concerned parent and member of this community, I’m urging local authorities to consider the installation of a fenced swim enclosure at Moreton Bay. This isn’t just for my son—it’s for all children, adults, and families who deserve a safe space to enjoy the water. If you care about water safety for those with disabilities, if you understand the risks, and if you want to protect our most vulnerable, I ask you to stand with me.”

“Together, we can create a safer community—one that includes everyone, regardless of ability. This is not just an issue for parents of children with disabilities. It’s an issue for every family that values the safety of their loved ones while enjoying outdoor spaces like the beach.”

“Every day, I do my best to keep my son safe, to help him navigate a world that can be overwhelming. But I can’t do it alone. We need more than just awareness—we need action. For every parent, for every child, and for every person with a disability, I hope we can make Moreton Bay a place where safety and inclusion come first.”

“That day at Redcliffe left me shaken, but it also left me with a burning determination to make sure no other parent has to experience the terror of seeing their child in danger in the water. It’s time for our community to step up and make a change—one that will protect every swimmer, whether they’re a child, a senior, or someone living with a disability. For the sake of our families and the safety of our loved ones, let’s create a space where we can all enjoy the water safely and without fear.”