A wild day out at Sydney Zoo

Our Central Coast team supported participants to go on a road trip filled with person-centred active support.

July 4, 2025

A Sydney Zoo trip for four housemates from Aruma’s Umina Beach Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) was no small feat—but thanks to our Central Coast team, it was a day to remember.

Three of the housemates use wheelchairs and require 1:1 support. Add in a public holiday, dietary and access needs, travel, and the coordination of a full day out, and it’s clear how much planning went in to make it all happen.

But with teamwork, preparation, and a strong focus on supporting individual needs, the day went off without a hitch.

“From the start, the team worked like clockwork—navigating with ease, adapting to needs on the go, and ensuring no one missed out on any part of the experience,” says Stephen Crouch, Aruma’s Manager Shared Living.

They headed to Sydney Zoo, widely known for its accessibility The team left nothing to chance: rosters adjusted, bags packed, food prepped, and clothes laid out the night before.

By 8am, the van was packed and after the 1.5-hour drive, they arrived at Sydney Zoo and began exploring. The aquarium was a highlight for our participants.

“The smiles on the men’s faces said it all. These moments bring us closer as a team, deepen our connection to the people we support, and remind us why we do what we do,” says Stephen.

After a picnic lunch, the adventure continued, ending with a trip to the gift shop where each person chose a keepsake to take home.

This was more than just a day at the zoo. It’s a great example of person-centred active support in action—where every decision was made with our customers’ needs at heart.

At Aruma, we talk about living a great life, and this day was exactly that.