All Abilities Climbing

Who are we?

All Abilities climbing WA is Perth's first dedicated adaptive climbing group. The group is for people who have a disability that would like to try rock climbing in a supportive and inclusive way. Sports Physiologist, climbing coach, Dave Barretta and Occupational Therapist, Evelyn Sim, with a team of volunteers run regular groups in climbing gyms across the Perth Metropolitan area.

Our Team

All staff are volunteers to this program. they come to share their knowledge, skills and "psych" with our participants.

Our team are made up of decades of climbing experiences, we are super lucky to have the variety of skills in our team and to boot they are amazing humans who love to share climbing with everyone.

Organiser

Evelyn Sim

Tell us a bit about yourself: I'm a late blooming outdoor enthusiast. I took up rock climbing in my 30s and thought...why didn't I get into this earlier! The mental, physical and social aspect of climbing is phenomenal in what it can teach you about yourself and how to manage adversities. As an OT I could see how this sport could help so many people and wanted to be part of adaptive climbing. Unfortunately, as much as I searched, Perth did not have a dedicated group or organization, so in true style I started AACWA. Since then, I have been blown away by the support of the climbing community and the participants.

Lead Coach

David barRettO

Dave is an experienced climbing coach with a passion for helping others to find fun and confidence in climbing. He uses his knowledge from climbing and exercise physiology to teach students of all abilities to thrive in their climbing journey.

You can check out Dave's business here: www.ClimbWell.com.au

AACWA Volunteer

JAMES BUSH

I've joined AACWA because I enjoy volunteering my time to help others in the community. I am also an active SES member. The ability to help others get out and enjoy activities I have been able to get joy from over my life is priceless.

I'm a qualified outdoor top rope and abseil guide. I have worked in outdoor education with mostly youth of 13-17.

My areas of expertise lie further in the search, rescue, rope access and emergency response side of the spectrum.

AACWA Volunteer

Shania PETERS

Rock climbing coach, route setter and personal trainer. Shania is passionate about all things climbing and helping other reach their goals.

With Shania's expertise and skill she is key in helping our climbers up the walls and smashing goals.

AACWA Volunteer

mitch baker

Tell us a bit about yourself: I'm Rope Access technician and avid climber, and sometimes surfer.

What has motivated you to Join AACWA? Give back to and help expand the climbing community in Perth.

AACWA Volunteer

Callum noble

Callum has made his way all the way from Scotland to Perth, WA after spending a year climbing in the US.

Callum is passionate about helping others, with a gentle friendly approach he has fast becoming a favourite amongst the young participants. For some of our participants who have wanted to explore climbing further, Callum has been their support worker and developed individualised plans for their goals.

Upcoming Events

Our supporters

We would like to extend our gratitude to all our supporters and sponsors who have made this vision possible.

Evelyn sim ot

adrenaline vault

rockface

climb well

urban jungle

perth airport

cawa

summit climbing

"My Son doesn't leave the house apart from school or for outings with his support. My son has had trouble finding his place and people for so long. Finding AACWA has been such an amazing experience for him! He now attends the gym weekly to build up his hand and arm strength as he knows this will benefit his climbing abilities. He has even been looking at and researching recognised courses as he think this could be something to look at, long term and with long term goals. It's getting him out of the house, off electronics, fantastic physical activity and it has been wonderful helping his confidence in general. He feels supported and safe in the environment and looks forward to the sessions with enthusiasm. Being a single mum on benefits, money is tight but the price has no been a barrier for my son attending nor participating. Knowing that there is an amazing OT over seeing his climbing has been great and helps alleviate any fears."

"Isaac enjoys his fortnightly climbing group" This helps him with his confidence and being involved with the community.

His climbing sessions have helped him build stremgth, improved his balance and improved his concentration.

I highly recommend AACWA!"

" Coming to my first AACWA gave me the opportunity to try climbing - something I would never have got to do otherwise. Evelyn, Dave and the volunteers made me feel really welcome. When I was climbing up the wall it gave me a sense of accomplishment and I felt really happy. I've been twice now and can't wait to go again. "

Group Locations

We are extremely fortunate to have the four major rope rock climbing gyms, support this venture. Not only do the embrace diversity of our group, but they have also assisted AACWA by reducing costs and allowing all our climbers access to their gym, harness hire, shoe hire and entry for their support/belay person for the $15 this is more than half the price of casual entry.

Who are we?

Our Team

​Upcoming Events

Our supporters

Group Locations

Upcoming Events