News
Disability Event a Winner
This event was established back in 2007 as part of the ‘Rec for You’ program to provide passive recreation opportunities to the people in the Golden Plains community. The Golden Plains Parent Support Group took up the initiative and with a budget of $500 and 10 families of children with disabilities, ran the event at Leighdale Equestrian Centre, Teesdale. Feedback from the day was positive and the expectation that it would run again. The following year the support group received some funding through the community grants program and did some serious fundraising at Bunnings. With a budget of $4000 and 30 families we were able to open up the event to all families of children with disabilities across the region. Each year the Disability Family Day has grown with 2009 having 60 families and 2010 over 85.
The aim of the event is to bring together families of children with disabilities in a safe and engaging environment. Parents have opportunity to network with other families, take some time out, enjoy the massages and stress free environment. The event is well known for its mutual respect and understanding and the no big queues often associated with festivals. The children have access to a range of activities including jumping castles, craft, face painting, circus acts, cfa displays, train rides, animal farms and the opportunity to just be themselves and not be judged.
The Disability Family Day is now in its 5th year. We have valued support from local organizations including Lethbridge CFA, Teesdale PFA, Golden Oldies Mens Group, Bannockburn Lions Club and numerous individual volunteers. This event has raised awareness across the many communities about the issues that face families of children with disabilities. It’s becoming the one event that families look forward to each year where they can come out as a whole family and spend the day with like minded people and not be overwhelmed by large crowds.
Plans are underway for this years event. We are always open to volunteers to help in the lead up to the day and assisting at the event. Please feel free to contact Kaylene on 03 5281 7553 to register your interest.
Cheers
Kaylene Grigsby
Golden Plains Parent Support Group
