International Day of People with Disability was celebrated in Armidale with a ‘Don’t Dis my Ability’ Expo and Concert on Friday, December 7. The Expo and Concert was a collaborative approach to raise awareness of people with a disability and demonstrate abilities and talents in art and craft, sporting achievements and the valuable contribution made to the community.
Close to 200 people participated in events at the Town Hall. The expo attracted over 25 stallholders from Local Disability support services, Community Service providers and Recreation and Leisure opportunities from the New England area.
The ‘Don’t Dis My Ability’ Expo and Concert was officially opened by the Mayor, Cr Jim Maher and Welcome to Country by Mr Steve Widders. Brett Voysey was Master of Ceremonies and introduced the performers, with Denise Aldridge from House with No Steps interpreting in sign language for the evening.
The audience was entertained by dance performances from the Armidale Recreation Access ‘DanceAbility’ group, with five dances, including Rock and Roll, Country Line Dancing and a final dance with audience participation, which had everyone up and dancing in the aisles.
Saturday Magic Theatre Troupe performed a medley of song and dance, directed by Barbara Albury and Choreographed by the participants.
Suzanne Bannon, Aged & Disability Specialist Worker, Armidale Dumaresq Council thanked the sponsors and supporters for their continued support and assistance in the planning and coordination of the event.
“Today was about promoting people’s ability and achievements in the community,” Suzanne said.
“The Recreational Access Project has ‘DanceAbility’ workshops every Thursday at PCYC and we have been practising for 12 months.
“It was great fun tonight and showed all the hard work and fun we’ve had.”
The planning committee included management and staff from:Â House with No Steps, Cerebral Palsy Alliance, Challenge Disability Services, National Disability Coordination Officer Program-UNE and The Ascent Group.
