The Story of Ocean Heroes
All children deserve the opportunity to learn social skills, bond with others, and figure out what works for them. Ocean Heroes shows neurodivergent individuals that they can achieve anything.
People living with autism face unique challenges that can make it difficult for them to develop self-confidence and make genuine connections. Learning to surf offers a fun, healthy, and unique way for people on the autism spectrum to develop their confidence, boost self-esteem and make connections with others. That’s why Ocean Heroes was formed by Sam Moyle, Luke Hallam and Tom Johnston in 2016.
We provide a unique opportunity for people on the autism spectrum to take part in organised sport backed by a highly supported, safe and inclusive environment. By running free events and surf experiences, we offer the autism community the chance to experience the thrill of riding a wave!
Key Facts
- An Ocean Heroes Free Event sees up to 120 autistic participants get safe, fun and inclusive access to the ocean for free!
- Provided 216 Free Events over the last decade
- Delivered 12,000+ Free Sessions nationally
- Driven from WA, NSW, Qld (expanding to SA, VIC soon)
Meet the Team
Luke Hallam
Co-founder & Chief Operating Officer
Luke has been in the ocean since he was a grommet either surfing, downwind paddling on the famous Freo Doctor seabreeze or competing in long distance paddleboard events.
Luke is a passionate advocate for creating equal opportunities for neurodivergent people throughout Australia. After creating the first specific gym program for autistic children in Perth, Luke co-founded Ocean Heroes and now heads up all WA operations, programs and partnerships. Luke's favourite thing to do at Ocean Heroes is helping new participants experience the thrill of surfing for the first time.
Outside of Ocean Heroes, Luke is a proud father and husband and you can find him at the beach or local park with his family.
Tom Johnston
Co-Founder & Board Member
Tom Johnston is the owner/operator of Go Surf Perth, a locally run surf school based in Scarborough.
In his previous life he could be found wandering St. Georges Terrace in a suit and tie however decided to swap his suit for a wet one. Tom holds a Bachelor of Commerce and Graduate Certificate in Project Management as well as all relevant first aid and coaching accreditations for the sport of surfing.
He enjoys the challenge of running his small business and in his down time loves to head to Rottnest for surfing and fishing.
Sam Moyle
Co-Founder
Formerly a Marine Scientist, Sam was responsible for bringing Ocean Heroes to the East Coast. He’s been involved in not-for-profits since early 2000, and has found his passion in sharing the surf stoke with kids on the spectrum.
Sam sees the positive impacts of Ocean Heroes on both the participants and their families, and the importance for inclusion in the broader community
Xander de Haan
WA Free Event Program Coordinator
Xander started volunteering with Ocean Heroes in 2018. He holds a Bachelor of Psychology and his background resides in the disability sector. He has worked for many years as a support worker for children on the spectrum, as well as an NDIS Support Coordinator.
When he’s not coordinating the WA Free Events, you’ll find him training jiu jitsu or down by his local beach!
Louis Kelly
Head Coach Surf Experience Program
Louis first started working for Ocean Heroes mid 2022 as a Surf Coach. Graduating with a Bachelor of Communications and Media (and very unsure of his career path) Louis instead found passion for community through volunteering. This led to a position as a Support Worker, followed by NDIS Support Coordinator, until eventuating to the role of Head Coach in our Surf Experiences program (thanks to Xander for all of the above, but don't tell him that). If you don't see him down at the van trying to squeeze a wave in between Surf Experience sessions, you will find him singing in his band down at a local bar.
Zak Ashton
WA Events & Operations Facilitator
Zak saw the Ocean Heroes van from his mate's balcony and instantly wanted to get involved! He began working as a casual surf coach in the Surf Experiences program and volunteering at Free Events in 2023, joining the WA Free Events team full-time in 2024!
An ocean lover his whole life, Zak's passionate about surfing and is always looking for an excuse to get in the water at events! He loves providing neurodiverse people the opportunity to develop this passion too.
Board of Directors
Ocean Heroes Board of Directors 2026. Pictured left to right: Sam Birmingham (CEO), Micheala Jackson, Tom Johnston, Todd Jackson, Tim Dettman (Chairman), Daisy Rowe, Garrick Jackson, Emma Richards
How Can We Help?
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