ABC Illawarra / By Brooke Chandler Jun 2023
After struggling to make friends, Thomas Walters Whyte made the life-changing decision to create a social group for people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Driven by the desire to meet people who understood him, the 22-year-old has created a little community in Bowral in the NSW Southern Highlands.

"I felt alone," Thomas said.
"I was trying to connect with the members of my local horse riding club but because I was the only ASD person, I struggled. I couldn't relate to what they are saying."
With encouragement from his mother Jessica Whyte, Thomas posted the idea about a social group tailored specifically for young adults with mild ASD to Facebook.
The concept reached a greater audience when Rose Shaw from Community Circles offered her networking skills.
"There are large organisations trying to help people like me, but I just fell into the gaps," Thomas said.
"But in this small gathering, we can all enjoy a meal, chat, and soak up the not-so-busy atmosphere."
Now, every weekend Thomas sips an icy drink from a cafe accompanied by half a dozen young adults of neurodivergent backgrounds.…



