All over Australia councils and communities came together to celebrate International Day of People with a Disability (IDPwD) on December 3.
Mackay City Library recognised the day with the opening of PhotoVoice, an exhibition featuring 28 photographs by 11 community members with a disability which aims to give a voice to the daily challenges faced by residents with a disability.
Councillor Laurence Bonaventura said public access was about more than an entry point into a building, it could also mean freedom and independence.
“This project has helped highlight public areas where council provides good access and where areas of improvement may be needed.”
Participant Gary Matthews said the images would stay with those who viewed them.
“I hope these photos encourage a greater understanding of access issues, leading to increased accessibility for everyone.”
In Gosford, IDPwD provided an opportunity for people with a disability to try two new beach wheelchairs purchased by Council, available at Terrigal and Umina beaches.
Gosford City Council Disability Access Officer Katie Butler said the Hippocampe beach chairs made it easier for anyone with a physical disability to access the beach.
“The chairs are designed for maximum comfort, with the seat shaped like a traditional wheelchair to provide upper body support and help the user to feel secure.
“We want everyone to be able to enjoy the sand, surf and sun, regardless of whether or not they have a disability.”
In celebration of IDPwD, Gosford Council partnered with the Disabled Surfers Association of Australia to bring the annual Come and Try Surfing event to
Terrigal Beach.
“This event provides an opportunity to give surfing a go in a way which caters for everyone’s needs and is a good example of how all sports can be adapted to allow anyone to join in,” Ms Butler said.
Meanwhile, the City of Darwin celebrated IDPwD with the launch of new state of the art access equipment at Casuarina Swimming Pool.
Chair of the Disability Advisory Committee Peter Mahony, the first person to use the new equipment, said it was the first time he had swum in 17 years.
“We have been advocating for improving access to community activity for a long time. It is great to see Council take this initiative on board.
“Entering the pool again after such a long time was liberating. I cannot put into words how pleased I am to swim again.”
