International Day of People with Disability is a United Nations sanctioned day that is celebrated around the world. It aims to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability and celebrate their achievements and contributions.
The theme for this year’s event is Good Access = Good Business. Council encourages businesses to consider how welcoming and inclusive they are for people of all abilities. Businesses that have a becoming accessible sticker on their shop front window will be acknowledged during the celebration.
The event will feature guest speakers; including Colleen Furlanetto, Chair of Victorian Disability Advisory Council, a committee that is responsible for giving people with a disability a voice in public policy. Colleen previously served two consecutive terms on the Strathbogie Shire Council and spent her last year as Mayor, being the first woman with a disability to be elected to the role. Colleen gives a voice to regional and rural issues, preventing violence, advocating for rights of people with a disability to be active in education, employment and self-determination.
The event offers a number of all abilities activities, including wheelchair basketball, soccer, earth balls, giant games, AUSLAN classes, art activities, face painting and Dotz for Kids will provide sensory friendly activities and a chill out space. There will be a free BBQ cooked by Mooroopna Lions Club as well as Lutfiyes Shish Kebab and Mr Sheppy's ice-cream van. A number of information stalls as well as music and demonstrations on the main stage will be on offer.
Greater Shepparton City Council’s Acting Director Community Amanda Tingay said International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD), is a day dedicated to placing greater emphasis on the celebration of abilities and achievements of people living with disability.
“It’s a great opportunity for bringing together individuals, businesses and community organisations to celebrate and acknowledge the contributions, skills and achievements of people with disability,” Ms Tingay said.
“I encourage individuals and organisations to come along and celebrate this important day.”
This event is a partnership between many local organisations including Council, Family Care, Valley Sport, GoTAFE, ConnectGV, Gateway Health, RIAC, Primary Care Connect, Shepparton Access, VIC Deaf and Inspired Carers.
For more information contact Council on (03) 5832 9700.
