Modern Living Meets Specialist Disability
Accommodation at Woolooware Bay
When Shanon Bates moved into Sylvanvale’s Individual Apartment Living (IAL) accommodation, he wasn’t just looking for support. He was searching for a place to truly call home. Shanon found it at Woolooware Bay, in a beautifully designed suite of apartments built by AccessAccom in Setember 2024, set against a stunning waterfront backdrop.
A change in circumstances in 2024 left Shanon without a permanent residence. Thanks to strong community ties, he was able to stay at Quest Cronulla for six months, generously arranged by owner Jim Winchester.
Born with Spina Bifida and having undergone more than 95 surgeries, Shanon describes securing his Sylvanvale-supported IAL apartment as a huge relief. At Bayview, he lives independently with access to 24/7 on-call support from Sylvanvale.
“Sylvanvale’s support has been a cut above the rest,” Shanon says. “They think outside the box, take initiative, and consistently deliver quality service. They’re all over it.”
What Is Individual Apartment Living?
Sylvanvale’s IAL model offers shared support for tenants in Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), enabling people to live independently with the reassurance that help is always available. Support includes:
- Unplanned support: Up to 2 hours daily, available 24/7, year-round
- Collective support: Daily planned support shared with other tenants in the complex
- Flexible support: Individual planned support tailored to each resident’s needs
The modern, accessible design at Woolooware Bay has made everyday life easier for Shanon. He appreciates thoughtful features like the adjustable shirt rail that lowers to chest height, wheelchair-friendly layouts, and his own car space.
“The builders even asked for my input—and listened,” he says.
Sylvanvale’s Role
From the initial enquiry to move-in day and beyond, Sylvanvale has been by Shanon’s side. While he’s highly independent, knowing he can call for help via iPad, buzzers, or phone gives him peace of mind.
“Three weeks after I moved in, I got stung by a wasp at night. It was such a relief to have support just a button away.”
Shanon is especially grateful for Sylvanvale’s onsite team, led by , who helps make his apartment feel like home. Whether it’s managing challenges or helping him host friends, their support makes a real difference.
“My team and I support IAL residents to live independently, with help when it’s needed,” Sabian says. “I love helping people feel at home and building meaningful connections with great individuals like Shanon.”
Life at Woolooware Bay
AccessAccom, owns all the IAL apartments in the Woolooware Bay complex. Shanon’s two-bedroom apartment is modern, accessible, and filled with natural light. Located above a shopping precinct, it features a pool, communal areas, automated entry, and balcony doors.
As a passionate Sharks fan, Shanon is thrilled to be just a short roll from the stadium, with Cronulla’s attractions close by.
A Fresh Start with Big Plans
With stable housing, Shanon is focused on growing his business, Push The Limit, which delivers workshops to shift perceptions about people living with disability. His sessions, which are held in schools, corporate settings, and community groups, cover topics like anti-bullying, accountability, diversity, inclusion, resilience, and perspective.
“Show up and push limits every day,” he says.
As the first person to push the Bathurst 1000 track in a wheelchair, Shanon is living proof that the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.
Advice for Others
For those considering assisted living, Shanon offers practical encouragement:
“There’s a variety of accommodation available. Be proactive, speak with NDIS representatives, and connect with a service provider like Sylvanvale.”
