Link Disability Magazine June-July 2022

June/July 2022 | Volume 32 Issue 3 linkonline.com.au $9.95AUD / $11.50NZ

Albert Lee

In this issue:

Optometrist, sportsman, amputee reveals his valuable lessons in survival

Meet a comic book hero / Telstra launches Accessibility Lab / Myths surrounding inclusive education / We visit the Fiji School for the Blind / Australian company sets up a watermelon project in Africa / Happenings

Inside

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From the Editor

08-09

Cover Story: How amputee Albert Lee turned his life around

08

16

16-17

Meet a comic book hero

30-37

The latest news in Automotive Services

58-59

30

58

Volunteering in Fiji with the vision impaired

72-73

Planning a trip…maybe with your dog…catch this travel blog

80

Unique watermelon project grows in Malawi

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Happenings and What’s On

www.mable.com.au

Publisher

Simon Cooper

Editor

Kymberly Martin kymberly@intermedia.com.au

Contributor

Caitlin Maynard maynardcaitlin@gmail.com

Advertising

Michelle Stevens mstevens@intermedia.com.au 0419 822 717

Design

Sarah Vella

Prepress

Tony Willson

Production Manager Jacqui Cooper

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From the Editor

T

his issue is about ‘new beginnings’ with stories on how courage and determination can triumph over tragedy.

In the cover story on amputee Albert Lee, you will read how “life comes down to what you can achieve, find a purpose and your direction”.

Another comes from Gold Coast writer Michael Towers who found strength creating a comic book hero and volunteer Ben Clare tells us about his work in Fiji for the vision impaired which he hopes will inspire others to follow in his footsteps.

We also take you to Southern Africa and our story on a watermelon project in Malawi that is .providing income and work to a small community, thanks to Australian company Nova Employment.

Telstra has unveiled its first ‘accessibility lab’ an in-house facility described as one of the most positive changes for Telstra in recent years.

While we are not into a Covid-free zone, and probably unlikely to be for some time, people are finally getting out and about and the ATSA Expo in Brisbane was a good example with over 1000 people attending on the first day.

And keeping up the vaccination process seems to be the best advice where possible.

Researchers in Canada have found people who are not vaccinated against a respiratory virus such as SARS-CoV-2 present a disproportionate infectious risk to those who are vaccinated. The research was a result of a mathematical modelling study, which simulated patterns of infection among vaccinated and unvaccinated populations.

It showed that as the populations mixed less, attack rates decreased among vaccinated people, from 15 per cent to 10 per cent and increased among unvaccinated people from 62 per cent to 79 per cent, with the unvaccinated increasingly became the source of infection. However, when the vaccinated and unvaccinated mix, indirect protection is conferred upon the unvaccinated by the buffering effect of vaccinated individuals, and by contrast, risk in the vaccinated goes up.

Kymberly Martin | Editor kymberly@intermedia.com.au

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June/July 2022

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Link to...Cover Story

A broken life and a balancing act that could have gone wrong Amputee Albert Lee spoke to Kymberly Martin about his lessons in survival but his body was not. “I am healing but only able to get around in a wheelchair and needing to go to rehab.”

University friends brought lecture notes to keep him up to speed, and with the help of his parents, and university friends who pushed him to classes, finished his degree, graduating with his peers that he began with.

But there were more hurdles ahead.

“Fourth year was clinic, impossible to do sitting in a wheelchair, so I had to learn to walk, forced to do what was necessary to keep up with friends.

Between university and rehabilitation, I had the prosthesis fitted. Your mind forces you to get through the hard parts and there is no time to spend sitting and dwelling. Things needed to be done and achieved.

H

ow would you like a working schedule to include flying to Armidale to the Yazidi refugee eye clinic. Visiting an aboriginal community in Griffith. Driving to the Villawood detention centre in Sydney and then taking a trip to Long Bay Jail working with prisoners, as well as running his optometry practice?

For optometrist Albert Lee it’s all in a month’s work. But the incredible part is he does all this and more without legs, following a train accident 40 years ago.

“I was disabled at a crucial time in my life when you suddenly come to the

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realisation that at 20 things can go either way. You question the meaning of life and make decisions. I was about to start the third year of a four-year optometry degree at the University of New South Wales, when I fell off a train late at night, woke up in hospital and told I had lost both legs.

“What did that mean… I was in and out of consciousness …. you have everything and you lose everything all in one hit.”

Lee spent seven weeks in hospital, at the beginning of a 28-week university term when his mind was in the present,

“When I reflect on this as I am talking to you, I think of people who have nothing to do when they are in the midst of their healing journey, allowing their life to drag on instead of getting on with their lives. I figured what had to be done, and that was get well, go the next step, which was finish my degree, get a job and try not let the roadblocks pull me back or slow me down. I was lucky opportunities came my way and I took them. But you need to fail a few times and then you get better.

“This was pretty much the genesis of who I was at the age of 20. This is the time you have to find who you are and what you are, who you like and don’t like, and know what you want to do and not want to do.

“When I had my accident, I thought ‘it’s all-over red rover’ but here I am nearly 60. It comes down to what you can achieve, find your purpose, your direction. If, like me, having an unfortunate circumstance occur and

COVER STORY

with disabilities and the disadvantaged.

He is passionate about promoting disability sports and role models for kids with disadvantage.

“My message is a positive one… kids with disability should have role models, having parents, families and friends are always encouraging but seeing people like Louise Sauvage and Dylan Alcott to inspire them and give them confidence.

wondering if you can ever work and be part of society, then think again.

“Over time you realise it things ain’t that bad and you make of life what you can. You hit bad days but so does everyone. At the time the only option for someone like me was to maybe work in a sheltered workshop and resign to the fact that I was not able to participate in a meaningful job contributing to society.

“I was doing rehab with a brilliant law student who went for his first ride on his motor bike and ended up a quadriplegic, eventually taking himself into a swimming pool in his electric wheelchair. His life was not changing and probably not going to because he had broken his neck and the burden of only his brain working for him was too much…I think of Stephen Hawking, a genius, brilliant physicist, with only his brain to keep him going and look what he achieved.”

Overseas gigs also beckoned. In 2004 Lee led a team of five optometrists to Sri Lanka following the tsunami where he did outreach work in devastated areas. Following this he went to Vanuatu for a diabetes intervention program and in 2014 volunteered with Rotary to Nepal following the earthquake to provide much needed eye care to people in need. He also conducted trips to Nauru providing eye care to people in immigration detention. As to how he deals with these tough situations.

“You help where you can…you are not living their life. There are people who lose everything but can still keep going

and you have to respect that approach.

I just help make their lives easier by delivering eye care services where I can and getting glasses for them. Giving the gift of sight and allowing them to contribute to their community.

“After graduating I wanted to be like everyone else and do the Europe trip, slightly more challenging but I was up for the challenge. Learned about what I was able to do, adapted to what was necessary and all part of life.

“Embracing my physical characteristics, I worked as a movie ‘extra’ most notably in Mad Max: Fury Road. I am currently doing a research degree at the University of NSW on provision of eye care to refugees and asylum seekers.”

He runs his practice in Rockdale Sydney three days a week, due to his public health commitments.

The sporting life The accident might have robbed him of his legs but not his passion for sport. Lee represented Australia in sitting volleyball at the 2000 Paralympic Games. He was also part of a seven-man crew that still holds the world record for circumnavigating Australia not-stop and unassisted and participated in five Sydney to Hobart yacht races. You can also add seated water-skiing, wheelchair tennis, basketball and marathons to the list.

What he has not done, and would still like to do, is parachute out of an aeroplane!

Lee was also involved with Sailors with Disabilities, a charity for with children

“I want to bring awareness to disability and, as I mentioned earlier, to sporting role models. Sport was my saviour to participate and communicate and a means to getting involved again. The playing field and rules have changed but the ability to participate is still there.”

No interview can go without mentioning the NDIS. According to Lee, disability covers a wide spectrum, with some people like himself technically bound to some extent in a wheelchair. However, he acknowledged there are people with mental health issues, those who need a carer or other assistance. “The government has a limited pool, and we all have to help to make sure that the people in need have access to the scheme.

“I try to encourage people to get involved. I believe I have the credentials and can discuss things with people at their level. What really annoyed the hell out of me in hospital was when a psychologist said: “I know how you feel…he had no f……idea how I was feeling”. Don’t tell me how I am feeling you don’t know what I am going through. I don’t say this to people, you feel what you feel, I have no idea what they feel, but I have been through similar situations.

“We don’t appreciate what has happened in life and you reflect on it much later. With any grief or loss, the worst part was my parents having to go through the suffering the full impact of this which did not come to me until I became a parent.”

As to what’s next for Albert Lee? “I am doing it now and living and enjoying it to the maximum with my wife and two grown up sons.” linkonline.com.au

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Link to...Assistive Technology

Simply Helping You to Live with Empowerment In the past decade, there has been a dramatic increase in assistive technology (AT) designed to support people living with disability. From motion-controlled lighting, to aided communication devices and medication reminders, AT is helping people with disability to live independently and with a sense of empowerment.

“For me, this is a great example of how support services such as transport, home maintenance and social support, for instance, can go together with AT to help someone ultimately reach their goals.”

AT can even help people with disability build and maintain social connections and a few people the organisation has supported have found value in online communities, she said. “Through chatting online with the help of modified computer accessories, they are able to engage in hobbies and discuss their interests with their peers virtually, where they may not have been able to otherwise and this is truly amazing to see.”

W

ithout a doubt, these advances in AT have changed the landscape of disability support in Australia. To find out more, Link spoke to Simply Helping, director and founder, Angela Feery-Richards, about how the disability support provider approaches disability support in a world of AT. “We have identified that AT can make a huge difference in the life of someone living with disability, and as a support provider, we feel that it’s incredibly important to be at the forefront of any new developments in assistive tech,” Feery-Richards said. “We like to stay up-to-date with new technology, so we

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June/July 2022

can make suggestions and successfully incorporate these aids into our support, wherever appropriate.”

Simply Helping provides a range of support services that can be easily tailored to include AT, she said.

“If someone we support is interested in a low-tech assistive product they have found online, we can organise a trip to a local store, including transport, and help them pick out what they’re looking for. Back at home, we can install their new purchase, depending on what it is, and a support worker can carefully read through the instructions with them to ensure they understand how to best operate their new equipment.

Feery-Richards said that technology may not necessarily replace human connection. “But in the end, face-toface connection and companionship are still incredibly important. So, we will continue to offer social support, even as technology develops. For many of the people we support, a weekly catch-up over a cup of coffee, or a trip to their local park is highly anticipated.

And frankly, we look forward to these visits too. There really is nothing more satisfying than knowing you’ve made someone’s day,” she said.

Simply Helping is a registered NDIS provider with locations across Australia, including Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and Perth.

Through flexible support, Simply Helping empowers Australians of all abilities.

Visit simplyhelping.com.au to learn more.

Dane gets her dream job

NEWS

A rewarding job in hairdressing has been life-changing for Dane, who is profoundly deaf.

A

fter arriving in Australia from Turkey in 2010, Dane dreamed of working in hairdressing. She had the right qualifications from her home-country and Australia, but her English was limited, and no one would hire her.

“When I first met Dane in February last year, she was bored working in her father’s kebab shop and needed purpose,” DES site manager, Isil Lange said.

“Dane was passionate about hairdressing and had the drive and skills. What she needed was someone to help her overcome her communication barriers so she could become independent.”

Lange discovered Dane’s local hairdresser had a Turkish heritage and was open to hiring someone with

disability. By March 2021, MatchWorks had supported Dane and the employer by: • Organising an Auslan interpreter to help Dane settle into work.

• Arranging an occupational therapist assessment to make Dane’s working days easier.

• Purchasing an iPad through Job Access to assist with communication.

Then Covid hit and the business was forced to temporarily close.

“It was a lonely time for Dane,” Lange said. However, once restrictions eased in October 2021, Dane was back at the salon.

Eight months on, Dane’s mother Lutfiye said Dane’s life had improved dramatically since work at Endless Hair. As Dane’s nominee, she said the

support received from MatchWorks helped too.

“Having a provider that has taken the time to listen, guide and support Dane has made her life easier,” Lutfiye said. “Dane now has purpose and is happy in her dream job. It’s been a life changer.”

Connect today, change tomorrow.

LET’S WORK TOGETHER TO FIND A JOB Is a health condition, injury or disability impacting your ability to work?

At MatchWorks, we believe you can overcome any obstacle. When you choose MatchWorks as your Disability Employment Services provider, we work with you to find and reach your job goals.

Together, we’ll get you working.

P: 1300 13 23 63 W: matchworks.com.au E: info@matchworks.com.au

linkonline.com.au

11

Link to...News

‘Resilience Under Fire’

McQuilty Quirke

This is the message from Gold Coast Disability Expo ambassador, McQuilty Quirke.

G

old Coast Disability Expo Ambassador McQuilty Quirke hopes to inspire others to rise up and live a fulfilled life despite challenges and setbacks.

At the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre on June 17 and 18 he will tell the story of his experiences as a leader and company medic in East Timor and Iraq before coming home to nightmares and a reliance on alcohol that went along with post-traumatic stress.

He will talk about recovery, in large part thanks to the love and support of his family, following his accident during his tour of Afghanistan.

The first people to get to McQuilty’s side could see no signs of life. He’d been ejected violently through the rear hatch, flung 30 metres into the air, and landed headfirst on the roadside.

With multiple injuries to every limb, a traumatic brain injury, and two shattered vertebrae, he was in a critical condition.

On August 15, 2011, he was admitted to hospital in Germany, just one day before his 31st birthday. By the time

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he arrived back in Australia at the end of August, stabilised and ready to commence rehabilitation, his future was still unclear.

With more than half a year in hospital and 32 operations to date, a casual observer might assume he could never again enjoy a life as ‘big’ as the one he lived before the explosion. Yet he defied the odds. Despite doctors’ suggesting that it would take up to 18 months to walk again on his severely injured left leg, he took his first steps three months post-injury.

For McQuilty, it was never smooth sailing. He supported other family members through their health crises as they had supported him through his own, using these moments as motivation for growth.

Hear more of McQuilty’s dramatic story of hardship and recovery at the My Future, My Choice Gold Coast Disability Expo. He inspires and motivates due to his positive mindset and contagious belief that people can develop greater mental, emotional and physical resilience.

My Future, My Choice presents an opportunity for people with disability to control how they live now and plan for the future. Connecting thousands of people with hundreds of product and service providers, the expo delivers a range of informative and interactive presentations.

The Gold Coast Disability Expo inspires people living with disability, family members and carers. Over 200 exhibitors will present health and support services, long term care options, cutting-edge equipment, medical and a variety of financial, travel, lifestyle, and sport options for people of all abilities.

During the two days, there will be a program of insightful topics from guest speakers, entertainment for all ages, live stage performances, a coffee van and plenty of seating to socialise and chat.

Doors open for free entry to the massive two-day event from 9:00am to 3:00pm on June 17-18, 2022.

Register your group to skip the entry que: www.goldcoastdisabilityexpo.com.au

ALL THE LITTLE THINGS THAT MAKE LIFE BIG My Future, My Choice 2022 Expo Program, presented by Impact Institute As restrictions lift and we get our first taste of real freedom, everyone is excited about the possibilities. The My Future, My Choice Expo’s are happening down the East Coast of Australia until the end of the year, with our Gold Coast Disability Expo up next on Friday 17 and Saturday 18 June at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre. It’s a great place to choose your next adventure and get back on the path to living life to the max. call us 02 9025 9380

2022 EXPO CALENDER Entry is FREE for all attendees!

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A comic book and a hero Created from what seemed insurmountable obstacles.

Michael Towers

I

n February 2017, Michael Towers woke up but could hardly move.

He had experienced severe flares with myalgic encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) before but had never woken up so tired and unable to sit up in bed.

“Understandably, I spent the day anxious and terrified, and at the time I would have described it as the worst day of my life,” he said.

Confined to bed, desperate for answers, he turned to online forums and social media groups that related to the condition, but all he found was ill-advised opinions that made him feel helpless.

The groups and forums were filled with people claiming there was no way to heal or even improve, and on a day like that only deepened the feelings of hopelessness.

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“I found myself laying there wishing that these online spaces could be a more positive place for those struggling, but not knowing what I could possibly do in my state to contribute to such a wish.”

Esther, grabbed a 12-pack of pencils and coloured it in while he lay unmoving in bed. The first Chronic Fatigue Superhero drawing was complete.

Many thoughts came and went through his head as the day progressed, but there was one he could not let go.

However, as much as the idea was funny and had potential, Towers wrestled with many roadblocks.

“I imagined a comic book superhero character who wanted so much to help people, but because he had ME/CFS it meant he often couldn’t. Despite his best intentions, and always wanting to be there for those around him, his body would not cooperate.”

“Firstly, I’d never been able to draw. I was always someone that could express myself in words and think up humorous situations, but drawing was not something I had ever been competent with. Not only that I did not have the energy to draw even the most basic outlines. It would have been very easy to talk myself out of it, but I thought of other famous comics out there that were popular while simply being stick figures. I realised that the point wasn’t the artistic merit of the drawing, the point was the message and the humour, and I had faith in myself to create that.”

As a writer, Towers had many ideas throughout his life that he had not followed through, but this one stuck.

Despite lacking much ability or energy, he grabbed a pencil and paper and drew a rough outline of the first comic in his book with a simple caption, then dropped his arms to rest. His wife,

Online and upwards

NEWS

He drew the second comic two days later and added another character who would be the stereotypical damsel in distress that he always remembered from old superhero movies he watched as a child. With his energy level limited, he managed to draw a basic stick figure with a triangle dress. After each outline he would crash in bed unable to move, while his wife coloured them in.

The decision to share them on social media was a conflicting feeling. On one hand, he believed they would resonate with people in his situation and provide levity in the lives of those like himself. On the other, his condition was in his words “a brutal one that is not taken seriously enough by the outside world.”

According to Towers the physical and mental barriers that sufferers live with and push through each day are nothing short of extreme and he did not want people to feel as if this was making light of that struggle, or somehow lessening the reality and seriousness of what people go through.

“I believed that the positivity of sharing laughter and making people who were suffering alone feel less isolated was too important to let those fears impede me sharing what I had created.”

The reaction when he did release them online was overwhelmingly positive.

People commented, shared, and messaged that they had never seen anything like it, that it was exactly what they needed, and it made them feel less alone.

“To know that something that had come from some of the worst moments of my life could have such a positive effect inspired me to continue to make and share more.”

From there, the journey to completing an entire book of comics was one with many obstacles and struggles as shortly afterwards he became bedridden, and his condition deteriorated to the point when talking above a whisper, feeding himself or moving became impossible.

He was partially paralysed, and eventually admitted to hospital.

Between then and now, five years have passed. Along the way, Towers has navigated the highs and lows of his condition, managing a life that moves between a form of stability in a still severely disabled state, only to then experience flares that last weeks to months on end which take the disability to extreme levels.

“With a condition so unforgiving, creating this book has been a journey of perseverance and patience.

I drew many of the comics in this book with months between one to the next, over a five-year span,” he said.

This book and its completion became a mission across these 5+ years, a mission of proving to himself and others in similar situations who doubt the ability to create anything substantial, that even though much of the time he cannot do anything, he sticks with it, is willing to pace, to persevere, and never give up.

“I may not have had much artistic ability, or the energy to draw for more than a few minutes at a time. I may not have had the strength to colour it all in, or the capability to hold a pencil for sometimes weeks on end but I did have a goal that I worked on when I could, and in the end, it created something genuinely special.

“For me, this book represents the overcoming of doubts and of what often feel like insurmountable obstacles. It represents the power of perseverance and of never giving in or giving up. It represents a lesson in the value of pacing, and that doing seemingly insignificant tasks, bit by bit, can create something larger and significant over time. This book and its completion are that something.”

Chronic Fatigue Superhero available in paperback and E-Book formats from Amazon. linkonline.com.au

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Link to...News

Innovation empowers mobility device users Did you know that the first wheelchair was invented by German clockmaker Stephan Farfler in 1655, over 360 years ago!

This year we have also seen new car seats released in Australia. Leading German manufacturer of special needs prams and car seats worked with APEX Mobility and MACA to have the Thomashilfen car seats (already fully tested and compliant with the European EC mark) to be crashtested and released as safe and familyfriendly for the Australian market.

The head of Paediatric Research and Development at APEX Mobility Wes Roach told Link, “It is excellent to see Australian families with access to leading innovations and designs from countries like the US and Europe”.

APEX Mobility have distribution centres in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane and a dealer network across Australia and New Zealand.

H

e was a paraplegic, so knew firsthand about the challenges of living a fulfilling life, without the support of assistive technology (AT). In May 2022, the ATSA Independent Living Expo returned to Brisbane and Sydney.

One of the goals of many attendees to these events is to find out what new innovations have been released since the last event. Technology, experience and innovation continue to evolve, bringing new opportunities to manufacturers of AT and solutions for those with special needs.

Co-founder of Klaxon and a wheelchair user, Andrea Stella, visited Australia in May and was able to utilise the Klaxon TWIST to navigate through airports, motels and events, preserving his upper-body strength and endurance for other activities.

One of the ‘game-changers’ showcased at the events this year is the Klaxon TWIST, an innovative power-assist device for manual wheelchairs. Due to its unique, compact design, the TWIST can be mounted out the front of the wheelchair, or underneath, to give drive from the rear. This new member of the Klaxon family has been developed by a team of equipment users and industrial designers, encasing features such as lighting and powered-braking.

The Todo Drive is another innovative power-assist device. Often referred to as “the world’s lightest power-add on”, at just under 5kg, this power add-on uses two motors, providing friction drive to each of the self-propelling wheels on a manual wheelchair. The Todo Drive is very simple to add on and remove, and can be driven or adjusted for speed/ sensitivity from a mobile phone, using the Bluetooth connection to the Todo Drive App.

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Many wheelchair users suffer from wear and damage to their shoulders, due to the unnatural and excessive use of their upper body. All power-assist devices are designed to help reduce individual’s wear and tear on their body.

The great news from our industry is that we continue to see innovation locally and around the world being brought here to help local families.

Companies like APEX Mobility are in constant contact with leading international manufacturers and working with them to develop AT that meets the needs of equipment users in this region.

APEX website: www.apexmobility.com.au NDIS media release: https://www. ndis.gov.au/news/7467-governmentproviding-quicker-and-easier-accessassistive-technology-ndis-participants Klaxon www.klaxon-klick.com/en/ Todo https://en.todo-works.com/ Thomashilfen https://www. thomashilfen.com/ MACA https://www.macahub.org/products/ special-purpose-child-restraints/ thomashilfen-commander https://www.macahub.org/products/ special-purpose-child-restraints/ thomashilfen-defender

Adelaide’s largest Disability & Ageing Expo is back in 2022!

T

he 2021 Disability, Ageing & Lifestyle Expo (DAL Expo) lived up to up to its name as Adelaide’s largest, most iconic disability and ageing community event. Over 190 businesses and organisations took the opportunity to have face-to-face interaction with an estimated 3700 prospective customers and supporters.

The 2022 DAL Expo will be bigger and better. Feedback from visitors and exhibitors has been considered in the planning of the 2022 event: • A two-day event it allows more South Australians to gain access to up-to-date information and with the opportunity to connect with, and hear directly, from more than 200 businesses and organisations.

• Larger pavilion: The Jubilee Pavilion at the Adelaide Showground is 8000sqm with more space for exhibitors.

• Activities: Rolling stage performances and zones within the event, inspiring engagement with expo visitors.

• New exhibitor networking sessions and exhibitor’s lounge allows participants to take a break and build industry connections throughout the event.

• Sponsorship opportunities: New Event and Expo Partnership packages offer visitor/exhibitor activation opportunities to maximise exposure. Make the most of your participation at the expo and explore these options.

An exhibitors’ networking breakfast opens the DAL Expo on the first morning of the event, offering the perfect opportunity for the industry to get together prior to the expo opening in the neighbouring pavilion.

The 2021 breakfast attendance broke records with 280 industry representatives joining the event (up from 180 in 2019), taking an opportunity to network, develop business opportunities and insights from other industry professionals. Exhibitors will be offered an extended opportunity to network post-breakfast in 2022.

This FREE two-day event will be held at the Jubilee Pavilion, Adelaide Showgrounds, October 28-29- From 10am to 4pm Join us in exhibiting at South Australia’s largest and most iconic Disability & Ageing community event. Call the expo office now on: (08) 8168 8776.

The DAL Expo is hosted by Catalyst Foundation.

www.dalexpo.com.au

Link to...NDIS

Achieving goals with the right support How connecting with Mable has improved Josh’s quality of life “As a single parent, you want someone you can trust. And that instant connection is so important. Children are receptive to parents’ feelings, so I had to be as comfortable as him.”

Sarah found it particularly helpful that the support workers she found through Mable didn’t charge for the ‘meet and greet’. “Funding for children with disability is so tight now, so every dollar counts, especially for therapy. Mable understands that.”

Sarah is extremely happy with Josh’s support worker, Linda. “She helps us with pick-ups and drop offs, she patiently follows Josh’s routine and the strategies I’ve shared to support his learning. I can take a step back knowing my son is developing a connection with another adult.”

Sarah highlights the importance of ‘support notes’ that Josh’s support worker writes after each session when submitting a support session on Mable. “I can share these notes with therapists to further support my son’s intervention. I feel at ease knowing my son is working closer to achieving some goals.”

Sarah with her two boys

J

osh is an energetic seven-yearold boy, who loves the outdoors, especially swings and climbing equipment just as much as he enjoys Lego, crafts and baking.

Josh has ADHD, ASD and ADD. He also has anxiety and some sensory needs.

“Josh can speak very well. Sometimes, though, he gets overwhelmed easily and it can become challenging for him to express his feelings and needs in those moments,” his mother Sarah said.

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“Social participation can get tricky, so joining in play, taking turns and sharing ideas is a work in progress for him.”

It’s why having calm and supportive adults who understand him is so important for Josh. They can validate how he feels and keep him safe, she said. “At the end of the day, Josh just wants to be loved, included and to feel connected.”

For Sarah and her two boys finding Mable.com.au was a big step towards a better quality of life.

For those seeking support, Sarah advises, “Reach out and make that first call, even though it seems hard. Mable made it easy and comfortable for me.

With them, I didn’t speak to a different person every time, it was familiar team members who understood what I needed. That makes a big difference.”

“Another piece of advice I’d give is to advocate for your child as much as you can. Find what works for your family.

Give Mable a go and talk to them about what you need, they will work around you.”

Find an independent support worker on: mable.com.au.

Nikki finds her rhythm

NDIS

And know-how to ‘rap’ up.

N

ikki loves nothing more than singing and rapping her own songs. “I just love rapping about my life, like my heroes Nicki Minaj and Fergie,” Nikki said.

“I like rapping because it makes me happy.”

When she attends Endeavour Foundation’s Learning and Lifestyle hub on Brisbane’s northside, Nikki is not afraid to pick up the microphone and perform in front of an audience.

Nikki has a healthy sense of self-belief and isn’t intimidated by barriers. She also has an intellectual disability, but Nikki nor her family have ever seen that as a reason to not try.

“I have a stutter when I speak, it is so bad because I can’t say anything, and I can’t stop it. But when I sing or rap,

there is no stutter and I can share my thoughts and my experiences freely,” she told Link.

Flawlessly belting out the lyrics to Edelweiss from The Sound of Music, it is clear Nikki’s musical repertoire is extensive.

“Communication is something I’m working on with my support workers here at Endeavour Foundation so I can speak up for myself.”

Nikki is here to say it like it is, and has a message for people with disabilities, or those who are working on their confidence.

“Be loud and proud of yourself.

When people tell me that I can’t do something, I say: “Whatever, that’s too bad for you. I don’t give up, because, why? We can do anything, and we can

Nikki shaking things up at her Learning and Lifestyle hub.

work, we can rap, we can play sports, we can do everything,” she said.

You name it, Nikki can do it.

Is your goal to make new friends, learn life skills, or engage with your community? Then Endeavour Foundation’s Learning and Lifestyle hub is the perfect place for you.

Go to: endeavour.com.au/learninglifestyle to find out more.

Live life your way with Endeavour Foundation Just like Grace, you too can follow your passions and dreams in life with support when you need it. Endeavour Foundation is an NDIS registered service provider supporting people with disability to live, learn, work and flourish.

Call us today on 1800 112 112 or visit endeavour.com.au to find out more.

EF2862.LM.0422

linkonline.com.au

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Link to...NDIS

Supporting People with a Disability… to live confidently MePACS personal alarms have helped many people with a disability to live independently, without the worry of calling family for help in a medical emergency.

L

iving with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, MePacs client Jess certainly feels safer at home and away with a MePACS Home and Mobile Alarm.

“I decided to take up a MePACS personal alarm because I wanted to live by myself and still feel reassured that I could signal for help in a medical emergency. I think because I was moving out for the first time, it was really important to know I had support from MePACS 24/7.”

Jess is an actress, writer, model and passionate disability advocate from Melbourne. She enjoys performing on stage and speaking about her lived experience as someone who has a disability.

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With NDIS funding, Jess has the confidence to go about her day and continue to achieve her life goals.

“I would definitely recommend MePACS to others, especially people like myself. Young people living with disabilities want to have as much freedom and choice as we can.”

With trained response operators answering a signal for help within two minutes, Jess and her family can now have the peace of mind they deserve.

“It’s not a huge alarm, so I don’t have to feel self-conscious about it and I just know that when I’m in or out of the house, I am covered if I have a medical emergency.

I can talk directly to the MePACS emergency response team and they call the most appropriate help for me – whether it’s family or Triple 0.

“I know MePACS is looking out for my safety, so it’s definitely a weight off my shoulders,” she said.

With personal alarms to suit a range of disabilities and independent lifestyles, you can rely on MePACS to help you feel safer at home and away.

MePACS is a registered National Disability Insurance Scheme provider. Find out more about our 24/7 fast response personal alarm service: www.mepacs.com.au/ndis

How adaptive shoes help me get out and about

NEWS

Save time with easy-on shoes from EveryHuman

“H

i, it's Tamsin here, Australian Paralympic athlete and university student. As much as I love athletics, multiple shoe changes a day can get quite tiring, especially if you are like me and struggle with shoelaces.

Due to my ataxic cerebral palsy, my hand tremors make it extremely difficult for me to do up shoelaces. I am always on the lookout for new adaptations that make doing everyday tasks easier.

Did you know that the average person spends at least two weeks of their lives tying shoelaces? For a person with a disability, this figure could easily be tripled. Since I started buying Billy Shoes from EveryHuman, I have probably saved over 20 hours tying

shoelaces meaning I have more time to do what I love, like athletics and even watching Netflix.

Initially I bought a black pair that could be disguised as school shoes that fitted with my ankle braces which saved me the hassle of tying my shoelaces every day. Since finishing school, I am no longer limited to wearing only black pairs of shoes which is just as well as I had worn my old pair out. The shoes also have a zipper opening, which fits my orthotics perfectly.

I have a blue pair of the new Sneaker II style, and absolutely love this colour.

Since I have to wear black ankle braces, these are not too much of a stark contrast but add that bit of extra colour to my day. I personally wear

these shoes with my own orthotics, but the insole that comes with the shoes is also super comfy by itself and interchangeable. The canvas texture of the shoes makes them lightweight and low-maintenance, which is why Billy shoes are my go-to shoes because I can simply zip them up to be ready to go without holding my family up.”

Find the latest range of easy-on shoes at: everyhuman.com.au

Steve Madden’s adaptive collection for kids is here with wide fits, velcro adjustability, and easy zips.

Shop this exclusive range available at EveryHuman!

everyhuman.com.au

linkonline.com.au

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Link to...NDIS

Coloplast Care Direct: A better way to order your Coloplast continence products

C

oloplast develops products and services to make life easier for people managing continence issues. We know that managing your continence is personal and can distract you from living your life to the fullest.

Listening and responding to people’s needs is what drives our work. The valuable feedback we receive is used in the development and testing of new products and services.

We spoke to users of Coloplast continence products and found that your current purchasing experience needed improving.

Many of you were left frustrated with the level of service and support provided to you from the organisations where you purchased your continence products.

“I’m often on hold between 15-45 minutes...”

“It takes 7-10 days for my products to arrive” “They missed many things off my funding plan” “I email them to order my products, receive an invoice and then I need to send to my plan manager to upload… the process is a bit clumsy” Long wait times on the phone, slow delivery of products and a lack of product and personal support were affecting your experiences.

Our new service, Coloplast Care Direct, was designed with you in mind, to provide you with an experience that makes ordering and receiving

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your Coloplast continence products as smooth and simple as possible, and with Care advisors available to provide personal support.

Many that have already ordered through us have found that ease of use, level of support and speed of delivery are key improvements on what they previously experienced.

“Everything - ease of purchase feedback regarding status of the delivery is excellent. Fast delivery and beautifully packed” “The person I spoke with had a broad knowledge of Coloplast products and how to match my needs with the right product” “I liked being able to have verbal contact with your pleasant staff, and not having to wait online. My delivery came quickly that gives me confidence for future orders” “We needed catheters ASAP, and they delivered them quickly and then followed up to make sure we had received them that day” With the addition of our Coloplast Care Direct service to our Care programs for catheter users and ostomates, and Care Clinical services, we now provide our customers with a holistic service offering with Coloplast Care.

Enjoy the little things we do to make life better. You’re better off direct with us.

Click here and start ordering your Coloplast continence products today: http://coloplast.to/care-direct

What can you expect when you order through Coloplast Care Direct?

Easy Ordering: Your own personal Continence Care Advisor who has supported hundreds of people with continence needs, and free express delivery on all orders.

NDIS Advice and Safety Net: Individualised NDIS support, product estimates, free access to clinicians and a product safety net* if your funds fall short.

Supply Guarantee: Free alternative Coloplast product* if your Coloplast choice is temporarily unavailable.

Insider Access: Exclusive access to Coloplast's latest product innovations, free product samples, product offers and complimentary gifts.

One Tree Planted: Supporting reforestation and reducing your carbon footprint with One Tree Planted. *Terms and conditions apply

Your current to your new ordering experience

New

Plain to deliciously toasty

Direct It’s the little things we do that make all the difference.

Order your Coloplast continence products direct through us and discover all the little things we do to make you all round better off.

To order your Coloplast continence products: coloplastcaredirect.com.au 1800 316 651

Coloplast Pty Ltd, PO Box 240, Mount Waverley, VIC 3149 Australia www.coloplast.com.au The Coloplast logo is a registered trademark of Coloplast A/S. ©2021-10 CEX116a. All rights reserved Coloplast A/S

Link to...News

Myths surrounding inclusive education

By Dr Olivia Karaolis

A common issue, raised by teachers is their lack of professional knowledge about disabilities.

Teachers often report feeling underprepared or with limited knowledge of particular conditions and specific strategies to teach students with these disabilities. will prefer identity first language, “disabled student” or “autistic person”.

It is important to ask, some students and families may not want to have their disability referred to at all and others see it as essential to their sentence of acceptance and belonging.

It is also important to consider our attitudes, our deep-seated assumptions about disability. Do the learning materials, books, films and artifacts we share with our students accurately represent disability? Do they communicate disability as a tragedy or as an experience that is limited rather than different?

A

s someone who prepares Pre-Service Teachers to meet the needs of all students, I would like to take the opportunity to address some of the myths surrounding inclusive education. The first of these is the need for learning about differing conditions, syndromes and impairments.

I believe this is a mistake as disability is only one aspect of a student’s makeup and we are at risk of placing students in boxes if our pedagogical choices are defined by one part of their experience.

General information about specific conditions will give you some broad concepts and teach you very little about the individual. There are just too

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many types of disabilities, and they impact with people in a myriad of ways.

Just as the saying goes…

If you have met one child with autism - well, you have met one child with autism.

Students with disabilities are not a homogenous group. A reality that should be reflected in how we refer to a specific disability.

When working with students and their families, one of the first things I ask is how they refer to their disability.

Appropriate disability language is constantly evolving, for example, some individuals will use person first language, “student with a disability” or “student with autism” and others

I encourage teachers to challenge this view and include literature and films that are created by individuals with a disability. Show films with actors that have a disability, music and artwork that is created by a diverse range of individuals.

Communicating and learning to communicate with your students is going to be a key factor to teach all students. How teachers develop this depends on their students, their individual needs, and their conditions.

Inclusive teachers are a curious teacher and ones that do not assume any student is the same.

Dr Olivia Karaolis teaches at Sydney University Faculty of Education & Social Work

NDIS

Support Coordination services Helps you live Your Life, Your Way.

C

ommunity Support Inc has been providing home care services for people living with a disability, mental health, or aged care related need for over 30 years.

The organisation offers a range of professional, flexible services for children, young people and adults requiring home or community support across all metropolitan and most regional areas of South Australia. With qualified staff supporting clients across the state, the organisation provides individuals with everything they need to help them live their life, their way.

“A key service offering we provide is Support Coordination, an NDIS funded support that is designed to assist individuals to make the most out of their NDIS funds. A support coordinator is a key person who works closely with the client and other service providers to balance funding arrangements, support needs and ensure goals are met,” Community Support CEO, Libby Craft said.

Support Connection allows you to start your plan, connecting you with

www.csisa.org.a u

other providers and monitors your plan’s progress. It also provides ‘Assist Life Stages and Transitions’ services to prepare you for the challenges you may face when undergoing life changes.

strengthen your ability to undertake tasks associated with the management of your supports.

Specialist Support Coordination uses a specialist framework to assist in reducing barriers and build capacity around NDIS plan implementation required by high-level needs.

“We also provide Psychosocial Recovery Coaching and this service type has certainly grown over the last six months. Our skilled coaches work collaboratively with clients and their carers or families to help clients implement a daily living plan.

They also assist them with their NDIS supports and link clients to other providers as required to allow them to manage their everyday needs. It is rewarding to see the benefits that Support Coordination provides for clients,” Craft said.

Capacity Building and Training is where assistance with capacity building and training in plan administration and management is provided, to

To find out more contact Community Support PH: 08 8429 1200, or Email: hello@csisa.org.au or visit: www.csisa.org.au

Coordination of Support involves helping you start your NDIS plan and monitor and address any issues or barriers that may arise regarding the delivery of supports in accordance with the plan.

www.csisa.org.au

linkonline.com.au

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Link to...NDIS

What is Laundry Assistive Technology?

T

hese days, there’s a seemingly endless array of equipment and devices to promote functional independence allowing people to remain independent, while living safely in their own home.

The research, development and innovation around assistive tech (AT) are constant, with each new product positively impacting accessibility and life in general for people. When you feel empowered to manage your own daily living activities and social connections, as well as your health and well-being, the possibilities are endless.

Looking at the variety of equipment and daily living aids available today, there appears to be a solution for everything. From complex equipment to all kinds of daily living aids. But, did you know that there are also practical solutions for laundry?

The Adelaide based company was the first company to manufacture portable clotheslines to hold bed sheets of all sizes and to the first to launch laundry equipment that those living with disability or reduced mobility can easily use. Managing director, Oswin Gegenhuber, said: “For the elderly or people with a disability, simple, everyday tasks such as laundry can become challenging and not everyone wants a stranger to do these things.

We believe there is a certain dignity in being able to do your own laundry yourself at home. That’s why we manufacture laundry equipment that is lightweight, ready assembled and easy to use.”

The company’s’ bestselling brand is the Mrs Peggs Handy Line. It's range of laundry equipment and accessories are popular with Australian households.

Not all disability is immediately apparent, which is why people living with chronic illnesses and conditions can also benefit from laundry AT. “We have learned from our customers that the ability to do their own laundry independently has become a top priority,” Gegenhuber said.

“It certainly explains why Mrs Peggs has gone on to champion the independence and wellbeing of our most vulnerable communities. As a result, our products are increasingly prescribed by case managers and occupational therapists who are concerned with improving independence at home, addressing fall prevention and building capacity.”

Mrs Peggs is NDIS, My Aged Care and DVA registered, highly recommended by OTs and trusted by the care community.

For more information go to: https://www.mrspeggshandyline.com. au/ or Freecall: 1800 111 811

www.mrspeggs.com.au

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A passion for disability services

R

oss Chaplin, associate director, specialising in the not-for-profit sector at the tenant advisory firm, Franklin Shanks, has seen first-hand the evolution of the NDIS since its inception in 2013, and the incredible impact it has on peoples’ lives. “My passion for disability services and experience in property enables me to provide good value advice and insights into the NFP sector,” he said.

“Throughout my life, I have been a strong advocate for equality, inclusive design and accessibility. Everyone needs a fair go. Creating property solutions that align an organisation’s current and future requirements is crucial to properly leveraging the resources NFPs have on hand.

I provide strategies to drive an organisations’ services and growth, as well as the detailed financial analysis to support an organisations property function. No matter the size of the organisation, the business model must drive the property strategy, not the reverse,” Chaplin said.

“I have 30 years of commercial property experience and nearly 50 years of lived disability experience that has provided a skill set ideal for the NFP and NDIS sectors.

For the past eight years I have provided my services solely to this community, looking after the property functions of organisations delivering essential services to our communities. If I can save those organisations money in their property function, then those savings can be reinvested into the delivery of their services."

Discrimination comes in many forms, and it is not just outdated attitudes of some individuals, companies and departments, its environmental too, buildings and public areas that are not accessible to people with disabilities are absolutely discriminatory, he said. "Essentially, the owners of those environments are saying “it’s not worth changing things to include you”.

ROSS CHAPLIN Associate Director

Personally, I am passionate about disability services and I have dedicated much of my working life into this sector.

At Franklin Shanks, we help organisations reduce their portfolio costs and to provide greater clarity and property strategies moving forward.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:

Real Estate Transaction Management

In the 70s and 80s the environment for people with a disability was a very different place. “It wasn’t inclusive and the language around disability was destructive and harmful. An example of this happened in 1976 when I attended The Crippled Children’s School in Allambie Heights, Sydney, which was near The Spastic Centre, now the Cerebral Palsy Alliance. And if you suffered from poor mental health or intellectual challenges, you were referred to the NSW Department of Lunacy in the 1970’s. If you ever felt boxed in or categorised, this would be it.

Analysis & Feasibility

“I use my skills in property to ensure that NFP’s can deliver their services with a supported property portfolio.

Sometimes it’s just a case of 2 + 2 = 4. The right property, for the right service = a fully supported NDIS participant.

Find a job you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life."

Makegood Negotiations

For more details PH: 0411 753 107 or email: rossc@franklinshanks.com

Not For Profit Property Specialist

Project Management

CONTACT DETAILS:

Facility Maintenance

Ross Chaplin Associate Director NFP Property Specialist

Property Portfolio Strategies Workplace Solutions & Accessibility Awareness Valuations & Research

0411 753 107 rossc@franklinshanks.com

Portfolio Optimisation Lease Negotiations Assisted Living Options SDA Housing Residential Evaluation FRANKLINSHANKS.COM

Level 5/283-285 Clarence St, Sydney NSW 2000

Link to...Automotive Services

Willshire Mobility – an experienced team that gets you driving This South Australian owned and operated business delivers solutions for almost every mobility challenge.

W

illshire Mobility is centrally located only minutes from the Adelaide CBD and carries Australia’s largest range of mobility adaptation products for vehicles.

Whatever your ability or strength, Willshire claims “it will get you driving and enjoying the independence you deserve”.

Willshire works with occupational therapists and health professionals to deliver solutions that give optimum benefits.

It also partners with high quality suppliers from Australia and

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internationally to ensure these solutions are fully customised for individual requirements.

Willshire mobility specialists are available to demonstrate these vehicles either at your premises, home or workplace.

It is a registered NDIS provider with professional installers and third-party engineering accreditation.

Installation is available for all its products and carried out in its large, modern workshop.

Their experienced team is available to help, but understands it is sometimes difficult to trial the products you want to get you mobile.

While professional, experienced staff are on hand to assist with sound advice on the best solution for you and your vehicle.

The company has a high-level assessment vehicle fitted out with the latest assistive technology, available to occupational therapists, driving instructors, installers and clients.

Give us a call, send us an email, drop in and have a chat or feel free to browse our website.

Go to: www.willshiremobility.com.au.

www.willshiremobility.com.au

Link to...Automotive Services

Hand Controls for Any Ability Endlessly customisable hand controls for people who love to drive.

Easy Drive can be configured to suit all needs and preferences. Designed for comfort and ease of use, the force required for braking and acceleration are independently adjustable. Easy Drive’s convenient brake lock feature allows the user to rest at traffic lights, plus comfortably operate the gears lever during manoeuvres like threepoint turns.

Check out Paul Crake’s video overview of the Easy Drive at —https://totalability. com.au/products/easy-drive/.

Satellite Accelerator: Is for the driver who wants to maintain both hands on the wheel. Available in wired and wireless versions, the unit enables acceleration with an innovative thumb operated lever.

P

aul Crake, a professional athlete, experienced a serious accident while competing at the World Road Cycling Championships in 2006, resulting in T4 paraplegia.

After leaving hospital, Paul and his wife Daniela relocated to Italy, where they discovered Fadiel Italiana.

When they returned to Australia, Paul found the local equipment severely lacking. He loved to drive, and knew people with disability in Australia did too, but was restricted by a lack of highquality assistive driving technology.

This led Paul and Daniela to establish Total Ability in 2011, becoming the exclusive distributors of Fadiel Italiana products in Australia and New Zealand.

Why Fadiel Italiana?

With over 30 years of experience, Fadiel Italiana’s range represents the best assistive driving technology the industry has to offer. As a company, they have helped countless people living with disability not just able to drive, but love to drive. All Fadiel Italiana’s offerings combine sleek Italian

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aesthetics with durable construction.

Their products are renowned for comprehensive customisation options, with hand controls being no exception.

Total Ability recently introduced two new Fadiel Italiana hand controls, Ergonomic Radial and Easy Drive, to complement their flagship Satellite Accelerator.

Ergonomic Radial: Designed for people with limited dexterity, the Ergonomic Radial and Brake Lever can be configured with a palm or lever grip handle. Both handles can be customised in terms of weight and rotation. The hand rests in a naturally comfortable position atop the control during operation. A modest push activates the brake, while acceleration requires only a gentle turn of the hand. Operation of the Ergonomic Radial places almost no stress on the shoulder.

See it in action here — https:// totalability.com.au/products/ ergonomic-radial-and-brake-lever/.

Easy Drive: Available in three models, Push/Pull, Pull/Radial, and Floor Brake.

2-handed driving provides more precise control of the vehicle and a safer feel for the driver. Most users also report a substantial decrease in fatigue compared to other control options.

This video explains why the Satellite Accelerator should be a consideration for anyone with the requisite physical capabilities — https://totalability.com. au/products/easy-drive/.

Love to Drive? So Do We. The only thing we love as much as driving, is helping people get on the road again.

Whether you are looking at options to return to driving, have never driven at all, or want to increase driving freedom and capacity, the team at Total Ability can help.

To start, we recommend everyone read our Complete Guide to Driving with Disability, available free on our website.

This step-by-step guide answers most common questions.

For anything else, reach out to our team via PH:1300 858 410, or the contact form at: https://totalability. com.au/contact-us/.

Fadiel Italiana Driving Hand Controls.

For those who

1300 858 410 | totalability.com.au

Link to...Automotive Services

Brazier Mobility – Creating Independence Brazier Mobility (formerly known as Les Brazier Special Vehicles) is a modifier of bespoke solutions for the disability and ageing market.

Wheelchair, and multiple options for the inclusion of family/friends as passengers. The interior space with ample room for all the extra stuff and the excellent view offered from the large windows makes this an ideal vehicle.

At Brazier Mobility, we are passionate about providing quality and reliable mobility solutions to suit every one of our clients and the Hyundai Staria provides a solution.

If the Hyundai Staria is not for you then the new VW Caddy 5 is also a perfect choice.

Brazier Mobility is the number one supplier of the VW Caddy in Australia, and the new VW Caddy 5 incorporates all the features enjoyed with previous models. A compact vehicle with room to move, the VW Caddy 5 is for the client who wants a smaller vehicle that offers so much.

W

ith over 30 years’ experience it was first in Australia to concentrate solely on modifications for mobility transport and driving controls.

providing solutions to keep creating independence for its clients.

Starting with the Holden Combo in the 1990’s, building to a solid portfolio over the years with Renault Kangoo, VW Caddy and Kia Carnival, Brazier were first to offer the new Hyundai Staria wheelchair accessible vehicle to the Australian market at the end of 2021.

The Hyundai Staria has the potential to be so much to the disability client. The variety of available modifications makes this vehicle an ideal option for keeping people active and engaged in the community. The company philosophy is that everybody should be able to go shopping, catch up with friends for coffee, attend a family function, spend the day visiting a beach/winery/park or just get out of the house.

This addition to its extensive range of wheelchair accessible vehicles continues its long history of being innovative and proactive in

The Hyundai Staria offers many options for this to happen. These include Wheelchair Accessible Lowered Floor, Self-Transfer to Drive, Drive from

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The research and development team is constantly looking at what new technology is in the market, and this is mainly the electric/hybrid vehicles being embraced by Brazier Mobility who are confident it will find a way to bring a comprehensive solution to the market.

It is the little things that make a big difference and Brazier Mobility takes pride in the ‘little things’ that are incorporated into their vehicle modifications that ‘make the difference’.

Our work is building unique vehicles, but our business is providing the ‘ultimate customer experience.’

Call Brazier Mobility on: 1800 BRAZIER (1800 272 9437) or email: enquiries@braziermobility

®

Creating Independence

VW Caddy 5

Hyundai STARIA

No matter what level of your disability, you CAN regain some of your Independence.

Choose from the extensive range of Vehicle modifications available from BRAZIER MOBILITY and feel free again.

Come to or call BRAZIER MOBILITY for: *Expert advise about choosing a Vehicle suitable for modification *A full range of innovative, premium quality products & *Modifications customised to suit your individual needs BRAZIER MOBILITY sources the most up-to-date technologies from around the world and has the expertise to modify them if necessary, in response to customer feedback.

All modification and products comply with all mandatory standards and are designed with YOUR health and Safety in mind. So whatever the level of Mobility support you need, BRAZIER MOBILITY can supply the best “Transport” solution.

1800 BRAZIER (1800 272 9437) www.braziermobility.com.au 5113

Link to...Automotive Services

Freedom vs The Pandemic – Freedom Motors are still modifying. production continued at full capacity, whilst maintaining and upholding all government rules and regulations.

s we near the half-way mark for 2022, Freedom Motors looked back on how its specialist business fared post-Covid lockdowns, and the impact the pandemic had in its home state of NSW and teams Australia wide.

“At Freedom Motors we utilise only the best quality parts and products for our modifications and as such, postCovid, these are proving to be harder to source, as businesses were forced to close with a backlog of orders,” divisional sales manager, Carolyn Hurst said. “We refuse to use substandard products, so this has delayed some of our modifications.

But it is an opportunity to find other high-quality products to add to our already substantial list of products and parts to minimise delays, so we are able to continue to deliver Freedom, Australia-wide.”

As an essential service the company was able to remain open and

Another challenge, post-Covid, is not a modification one, but a new

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vehicle supply delay as the motor industry was one of the biggest to be affected by covid lockdowns.

According to Hurst, some models are taking up to 12 months to arrive in Australia and with new cars hard to source second-hand vehicle sales have skyrocketed.

“Even with these challenges to our industry and the motor industry at large, we at Freedom Motors are still here modifying our wheelchair accessible vehicles.”

Give Freedom Motors Australia a call on: 1800 672 437 to arrange a consultation to see how we can help you get back to traveling and living the life that you choose.

‘We deliver Freedom you just have to choose the destination’

FREE CALL 1800 672 437 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.FREEDOMMOTORSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

NEW

INTRODUCING OUR

H YU N DAI STAR IA CONVERSION!

WE DELIVER FREEDOM YOU CHOOSE THE DESTINATION 36

June/July 2022

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES

Protect Your Wheels in Winter

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s winter’s chill envelops, we are all tempted to take our foot off the pedal (literally) and hunker down in home’s warmth more often.

Go for it, but remember your converted car still needs regular love. Whether it’s a WAV or has adapted driving controls, it needs attention in several ways over winter. This will help you save money, time and stress in future.

Simple steps to take.

Australia’s only disability motoring and equipment insurance specialist, Blue Badge Insurance, recommends to protect your wheels keep the following in mind: Outside protected: Thoroughly wash, wax, polish and dry it, including the undercarriage. Apply silicon lube over rubber seals and wipers. Treat any impurities, scratches and corrosion

before they become bigger problems.

Inside happy: Give the cabin a good massage with leather protector or vinyl oil and use a dash protector and steering wheel cover.

Engine, tyres and other bits optimal: Soft carpet/underlay in your garage insulates tyres against cold concreate and reduces the probability of flat spots, as this will keeping tyre pressure optimal. Run the engine at least every fortnight, for around 30 minutes. Visit regularly to check for signs of pests or weather bringing dirt in.

Covid-consciousness up: Ensure you have plenty of easily accessible face masks, hand sanitiser and wipes for when you do head out.

Wind and rain top-of-mind: Stock the car with an umbrella, waterproof

The Disability & Independence

Insurance Specialists

windcheater, beanie and blanket, ready to go.

The best protection: When wheels mean independence, insurance for on and off the road is key to protecting that, and your finances. Collisions, weather events, fire and theft… accidents happen all too often.

Blue Badge has protected Australians with comprehensive insurance for wheelchair accessible vehicles and disability converted cars for many years. It also provides discounted car insurance for disability parking permit users.

If a pet or assistance dog keeps you warm over winter, Blue Badge pet insurance discounts are available too.

Visit: www.bluebadgeinsurance.com. au or call: 1300 304 802.

Comprehensive car insurance built with you in mind.

Discounted premiums, by up to 25%* New for old replacement option for disability conversions^ Cover your family, friends, carers or support workers who drive your car Up to $150 rental car benefit for up to 28 days following theft Up to $5,000 cover for wheelchairs, mobility scooter or walkers if damaged while in your car

LET’S TALK: 1300 304 802 www.bluebadgeinsurance.com.au

*Discounts for the Blue Badge Insurance Comprehensive Motor Vehicle Insurance will be applied to the base vehicle premium rate subject to the customer holding a disability parking permit and/or the vehicle has been converted for use by a driver of passenger with disability. ^ New for old replacement on conversions up to 5 years old from newly installed to a maximum value of $75,000. For full details of the terms, limits and exclusions and to decide if the cover is suitable to you please read the Product Disclosure Statement at www.BlueBadgeInsurance.com.au. Blue Badge Insurance is underwritten by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd (ABN 83 169 311 193 | AFS Licence No. 523921) and distributed by Blue Badge Insurance Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 18 620 594 765) as an Authorised Representative of Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd (A.R. No. 1274770).

linkonline.com.au

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Link to...News

The Disability Gateway Connecting you to trusted information and services across Australia

Maya Dove

I

f you are one of the 4.4 million Australians living with disability, there are a wide range of services and supports available to you.

However, searching for information and services can sometimes be difficult and complex.

The Disability Gateway is a free, Australia-wide service dedicated to helping people with disability, their families and carers find trusted information and connects them to services in their area. It includes a website and phone line to help connect people to the right disability information and services.

Maya Dove is 22 years old and has a physical disability from a spinal cord injury at birth. She uses a wheelchair

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June/July 2022

and has used disability support services all her life.

Maya lives with her parents but finds and chooses disability support services for herself. She would like to move into her own home in the future and will use the Disability Gateway to find the information she needs to make this transition.

hire and wheelchair ramps, but also information about bigger issues like my rights as a tenant if I need to modify a rental property.”

Maya will soon graduate with a Bachelor of Social Work and is also looking at future job opportunities.

“I’d like to move out of my family home soon, so information on housing, rights and equipment is what interests me at the moment,” Maya said.

“Finding a job is the next big thing on my horizon so I’m interested in how the Disability Gateway can help me get a picture of what’s out there, the steps to employment and my rights as an employee.”

“The Disability Gateway has dedicated areas of life where I can find information and connect to relevant services. It has links to practical services like equipment

Describing her experience using the Disability Gateway website so far, accessibility and being able to find information on a broad range of topics are her favourite features.

NEWS

“The accessibility of the Disability Gateway website stands out for me. There are different options for people with sight and hearing issues, and it’s easy to navigate. I don’t see that on many other websites.” she said.

“To me a gateway is something that gives you access to another place, and that’s what the Disability Gateway does: it’s an entry point to the world of disability services, for people with disability but also for people who support them and need to access services on their behalf, such as families, carers and guardians and health professionals.

“A lot of this information is harder to find separately, so having links to all these different services in one place makes it much easier. If you want to find something, the Disability Gateway can take you to the right place.”

The Disability Gateway aims to improve access to information and services and make searching less stressful. It is a central starting point, providing information people can trust that is accessible, easy and safe to use.

Information on the website is structured around 10 topic areas that provide useful categories for searching for and finding services, including income and finance, employment, aids and equipment, housing, transport, health and wellbeing, everyday living, education, leisure, and rights and legal.

Francesca Neri lives with cerebral palsy and intellectual disability and uses a range of disability support services that can be found on the Disability Gateway.

Francesca Neri

She believes the Disability Gateway can also present new opportunities for people with disability.

“It’s such a great website. It leads you into many other pages where people with disability can find out about different things like finding a career, or activities to help them get into the community,” Francesca said.

“It’s helpful and has information about different opportunities for people with disability.”

At the moment, housing and leisure are the life areas on the Disability Gateway website that Francesca is most interested in. While she’s not ready to move out of the family home, she thinks the website could help her when the time comes.

“I think it’s a website I’ll go back to in future for things like courses or maybe housing. I’m not ready to move into my own home yet but this is a website that could help me look for suitable houses or work if I needed a new job.

“The Disability Gateway website can help a lot of people like carers and

support workers but I think it’s really for people with disability. It’s all about possibilities for the future and knowing what your options are.”

People with disability, their families and carers can contact the Disability Gateway for free and factchecked information.

They can also be referred to other support services if needed, such as counselling or advocacy.

For more information visit www.disabilitygateway.gov.au or call 1800 643 787. The Disability Gateway phone line is available Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm AEDT. If you need information in a language other than English, call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 and ask to be connected to the Disability Gateway.

If you are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment, call the National Relay Service on 133 677 and ask to be connected to the Disability Gateway. linkonline.com.au

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Link to...Assistive Technology

Pride Mobility Leading the way in innovation and quality.

A

fter more than two decades of serving Australia. Pride Mobility Products has a lot to be proud of. Since their founding in 1999, the company has grown to become a leading innovator and supplier of personal mobility products.

At Pride, consumer needs and wishes are the driving force. For their team of trained professionals, it’s not just about meeting medical and clinical needs, but also quality-of-life needs.

“We have a great passion in our company for enhancing the client experience through product innovation. It’s this passion that has driven our growth over the years. We’re passionate about making a difference in people’s lives by providing cuttingedge, market-leading products,” managing director, Warren Tripp said.

“Our company was born out of a desire to help Australians everywhere lead the highest quality of life possible, to ‘Live Their Best’.

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June/July 2022

Perhaps the most celebrated breakthrough in a long line of innovations is iLevel technology, a revolutionary power chair design introduced in 2015 that’s transformed complex rehabilitation forever. iLevel Power Wheelchairs elevate to a height of 30.4 centimetres while travelling up to 7.2 kilometres per hour. This allows individuals to engage eye-to-eye with others around them at walking speed.

Business development manager, Andrew Gannan said the world is not designed around seated height, and unfortunately wheelchair users for too long were excluded from many everyday functional tasks and interactions beyond their physical reach. “iLevel is a feature that can dramatically increase the quality of life for power chair users. From in the home to out in the community, a power elevating seat can help make life safer for users, make social interactions more fulfilling,

and give people who use motorised wheelchairs access to common areas of their home,” he said. iLevel's patented Extra Stability Technology enhances safety for transfers, reach, and numerous other activities of daily living, and is compatible with the Edge 3 Stretto, Edge 3, Q6 Edge 2.0, and Q6 Edge Z. Quantum Rehab is an integral member of the Pride Mobility family of brands, which includes the iconic Jazzy brand of power chairs, Go-Go Travel Mobility, Pride Scooters and Pride Power Lift Recliners.

To learn more about the iLevel and how it’s changing lives, visit: life.quantumrehab.com. Read stories from real people sharing their iLevel experiences.

For more information about Quantum Rehab and its range of consumerinspired products visit: www.quantumrehab.com

Visit pridemobility.com.au for more information

Link to...Assistive Technology

How Assistive Technology is making a difference

By Dr Scott Hollier

In recent times we’ve seen significant improvements in the way operating systems have provided built-in assistive technologies (ATs).

I

n the early 2000s, a person who is blind would have needed to spend several thousand dollars on a decent computer followed by several thousand more on a screen reader.

Quest 2, PSVR2 and established devices such as the HoloLens and HTC Vive, the presence of accessibility features is like built-in accessibility features for computers in the 1990s, ad-hoc and inconsistent.

Today whether its Windows, Mac, iPhone, iPad or a Chromebook, there’s a great suite of features built into everyday devices.

By comparison, our computers and mobile devices now have an established feature set and good third-party support for innovative new products.

However, when we look forward to new and emerging technologies, such as virtual and augmented reality, it seems accessibility is a bit of an afterthought.

Extended Reality… helping to make accessibility to web content easier

Fortunately, some recently published guidance highlighting disability use cases in immersive environments may help developers to correct this problem.

One of the great things about modern computing is that consumers with disability have choice.

Take screen readers as an example, Windows has Narrator, Apple devices feature VoiceOver, Android has TalkBack and Chromebooks have Chrome Vox. There are even free screen reader alternatives such as NVDA for Windows and commercial options such as JAWS for Windows which has been supporting people who are blind for decades.

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June/July 2022

Beyond screen readers, most of the mainstream operating systems have a variety of features for people with vision, mobility, hearing and cognitive disabilities.

With the current generation of immersive devices such as the Meta

By contrast, when we look at Extended Reality (XR) devices and their accessibility, they may or may not have some accessibility features depending on which device you choose.

In addition, their heavy reliance on motion controls and graphical 360-degree wizardry can make the enjoyment particularly challenging for people with mobility and cognitive disabilities.

To try and address this my colleagues and I have developed the current international guidance on XR through the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI), best known for its Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

standard to support accessibility in web content.

Our group at W3C WAI recently published The XR Accessibility User Requirements (XAUR) with the hope that developers can better understand user requirements and incorporate a more established feature set in XR products.

This is similar to how accessibility features and assistive technologies have largely standardised in ainstream devices. The XAUR features 19 use cases in XR environments that should be considered to provide direct support to people with disability and open the door to new possibilities for disability groups.

Some examples where XR could be of particular use, are with a person with a cognitive or intellectual disability looking at confusing signage of shops in a mall.

Through an XR device those signs could be swapped out in real-time with a

symbol set that is easy to understand.

If the person wants ice cream, they see an ice cream symbol in place of the shop name or if they want to find a toilet, the symbol is overlaid to make it prominent.

Another example is for people who use sign language. In an XR environment such as virtual reality, the person signing could have a signing avatar that could translate all the information and sign to the user. In turn, the user could interact by signing back to the avatar in their first language.

A third use case looks at a person who is deaf-blind where they could not only use a virtual Braille display but interact with objects by touch such as feeling a sculpture in a virtual museum.

All three of these scenarios provide accessibility far beyond the current web and could unlock even more potential – if XR is made accessible.

The technology to make all these things possible is available now, but the Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) need to be built into XR devices to make it work, much like how screen readers are supported through APIs in our computers and mobile devices.

It is our hope that the XAUR as formalised international guidance can draw attention to these and the other use cases and ultimately lead to a consisted feature set that can bring these and other opportunities forward for people with disability to enjoy all the great benefits that XR can provide.

REF: XAUR - https://www.w3.org/TR/xaur/ or E: scott.hollier@accessibility.org.au Dr Scott Hollier is CEO & founder, Centre for Accessibility, and author of 'Outrunning the Night: A Life Journey of Disability, Determination and Joy'

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Link to...Assistive Technology

Telstra hands-on lab To help digital creators get advice from accessibility experts. any process that aims to promote truly inclusive design.

“We never assume how people take their coffee, but always ask them how they want it,” said the TelstrAbility ERG’s co-lead, Brady March, who has been guiding the group’s contribution to Telstra’s first accessibility lab.

“Yet, when it comes to the type of support that people with disabilities may need, which varies hugely between people and situations, we often assume that we know exactly how to support them,” he told Link.

Set up in 2019, the TelstrAbility ERG has evolved from a support group for employees living with disability to a powerful company-wide advocate for informing and inspiring greater accessibility across the business.

As well as supporting recruitment programs for employees and graduates with disabilities, the group has helped promote accessibility awareness campaigns, advise staff on WCAG guidelines, establish user testing with people with disability, and now ensure UX designers and developers can put themselves in ‘disabled users’ shoes.

I

t’s become a specialised subject at conferences and diversity events around the world, but for thousands of Australians who live with a disability, it’s simply common sense: you cannot design accessible products and services without the advice of those who will use them.

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June/July 2022

For the 130 members of TelstrAbility, Telstra’s employee representative group for people with a disability, the opening of a pop-up ‘Accessible Tech Experience Lab’ on May 19 – Global Accessibility Awareness Day – marked a vital acknowledgement of the importance of “asking the person” in

“We do training on inclusive writing, documentation, recruitment and workplace adaptations, but we are yet to help our people know what it’s like to be a person with a particular disability trying to use our services,” Telstra Digital Systems and Accessibility general manager, Ben Pintos-Oliver said. “The experience lab will be a way of providing this kind of facility in-house, so you will always be able to ask an expert if you want to know how accessible your product or service really is,” he told Link.

Pintos-Oliver is confident that providing a simulated experience could make a significant difference in how deeply a developer or designer thinks about accessibility. “If you tell someone about your disability, they might have

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

a 40 per cent chance of retaining that knowledge. If you show them, it might be 60 per cent. But if you get them to actually do it, to touch it and live it, even if only for a short time, that experience will hopefully stay with them.”

Support from the top Over the past two years, the membership of TelstrAbility has nearly tripled as more employees have experienced the benefits of openly discussing their disabilities with managers and colleagues. The cultural change has been supported from the top, with group executive Michael Ackland stepping up as sponsor of the ERG and several other executives loudly championing the need for greater accessibility across both the company’s workforce and operations.

One of these is Communications and People, group executive, Alex Badenoch whose own hearing impairment has amplified her empathy for people who live and work with a disability. In November, Badenoch spoke to the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability, where she publicly committed Telstra to greater efforts in recruiting and supporting people with disability.

“It’s always been important for companies like ours to provide a safe place where people with a disability can raise issues and feel connected, and I’m sure this has become more important during Covid, when many of

us have been feeling more isolated or disconnected,” she said. “It’s critical that at Telstra we have communities that people can feel connected to and reach out to for support.

“Employee representative groups like TelstrAbility help to ensure that people who have lived experiences or are passionate can actively get involved and lead change at Telstra.”

The Accessible Tech Experience Lab will be one of the most positive changes at Telstra in recent years, designed as it is to put the owners and developers of accessible products and technology directly into the lives of those who’ll be using them.

Since the beginning of the year, six ERG members have been working alongside Telstra’s technicians to develop a pop-up version of the lab, with 4-5 ‘experience spaces’ offering online tasks that simulate the challenges facing people with specific disabilities, the roadblocks they encounter and the assistive technology they might use. Designers and developers will be able to experience these challenges and frustrations firsthand, before chatting with experts – the ERG specialists – about the best ways of overcoming them.

“The simulations will be very specific, representing a particular challenge that someone with a specific disability, say glaucoma or macular degeneration, has navigating a web page or a mobile app,” Brady March said. “It’s very much an introduction to these disabilities

Inclusive Tech Lab

but will serve as a foundation on which a tech professional can ask questions about specific features, to help make them more accessible to that audience.

“This is not a sideshow or a one-off experience, it’s the beginning of a long journey that will help people with a genuine desire to develop a deeper understanding of the challenges that specific users have using their technologies.”

“The culture of the group has become like an ecosystem where it doesn’t matter how different or unique your disability is, you know you are not alone and you’re in a place where you’ll always feel accepted and respected.”

– Niki Petousis, Delivery Chapter Lead Principal and co-lead of TelstrAbility linkonline.com.au

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Does weight prevent you from being transported in your wheelchair?

Being transported in a vehicle safely when you are unable to transfer from your mobility aid into a dedicated car seat, can at times, be difficult.

W

hen choosing a mobility aid to support community access, it is important to ask the supplier about the transport approvals given to the equipment under set standards.

There can be certain criteria that manufactures do not include in their transport standard testing and limited weight capacity that the wheelchair is crash tested to is one barrier that wheelchair consumers face.

Whilst the majority of mainstream wheelchairs are crash tested to

a weight capacity of 120kg, what happens to the consumers requiring transport in their mobility aids over this weight?

Luckily, for manual wheelchair users, PDG have developed the Eclipse. The Eclipse is a rigid chair designed for the bariatric user and supports up to 454kg of occupant weight.

Extended casters achieve optimal weight balance on the rear wheels for excellent ease of propulsion. And occupation transit tie downs are now available for a weight capacity up to 272kg.

MOBILITY

The Eclipse also boasts a narrower overall width compared to its heavyduty competitors, with overall width calculated as seat with + 7.5”, helping to increase accessibility in narrow environments.

Contact Linds Rehabilitation Equipment for further details of your local supplier and trial the Eclipse to increase your transport options.

The PDG Eclipse is the bariatric manual chair that turns on a dime.

www.lindsrehab.com.au | sales@lindsrehab.com.au | 1800 501 601 linkonline.com.au

47

Link to...Assistive Technology

Permobil at ATSA Expo 2022 All-New Products & Best Large Stand

P

ermobil exhibited at ATSA Independent Living Expo in Brisbane and Sydney in May, showcasing a range of new and upcoming mobility and seating solutions. The show marked the debut of Permobil’s new stand, which won the award for ‘Best Large Stand’.

Here is a summary of the latest announcements.

The re-launch of Progeo manual wheelchairs brings a whole line of wheelchairs under the Permobil brand, including the ultra-lightweight, carbon fibre Noir 2.0. Progeo, a sleek and stylish new choice for the end user that will be available from June 1, 2022, alongside the new TiLite range of manual wheelchairs.

Three new products are being made available in the Dreamline Seating range, the STX2 and G7 cushions along with the Sidewinder Suspension System.

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June/July 2022

The STX2 features patented cluster gel fluid packs for effective pressure redistribution, with a deep contour profile while the G7 cushion has a soft and comfortable feel despite unyielding stability, with a mild contoured base for easy transfers.

The Sidewinder suspension adds a dynamic function to any Dreamline Support, S3, STX, and Contour backrest, without requiring modification to the wheelchair frame and maintaining the adjustability of the backrest.

To complete the power assist device line-up is the Smart Wheels hub-mount power assist and the Mototronik front bike add-on device.

Mototronik by Progeo offer users a easily attachable front power assist device with the option of a compact 12” (250W) or a larger 14” (1000W) drive wheel.

Combined with standard or quadfriendly handlebars, Mototronik will give you choice as to how you want to tackle your neighbourhood.

At just 5.5 kg per wheel, Smart Wheels comes with the lightest hub-mount power assist solution in the market, incorporating a fully wireless and ambidextrous design.

The innovative unit will feature first-of-its-kind, GPS-powered straightline tracking, designed and made in Australia.

Users can easily choose between powered or free wheel modes while out and about. Stay tuned for more on Smart Wheels later this year.

Stay up-to-date on the website www.permobil.com and register your interest online to get the news straight to your inbox!

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Link to...NDIS

Getting into the driver’s seat Learning to drive is milestone for most Australians, and owning a car is a necessity taken for granted by many.

U

nlike other countries around the globe, Australia does not have a particularly sophisticated public transport system so for most people driving is their main form of transport.

However, for people with disabilities driving can present challenges.

Two key barriers facing the driver with disability is access to funding for modifications and regulatory requirements that exclude specific conditions and impairments.

While there is not specific human right at law to drive, the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities provides the right to personal mobility and to be included in the community.

For some, fulfilment of those rights includes driving a car.

If a person requires car modifications,

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June/July 2022

funding can be sought from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or for specific cases, via charitable organisations.

For those seeking NDIS funding to cover their car modifications it is important to find an occupational therapist that specialises in car modifications to prepare the assessments and prescribe what you need.

NDIS funding for car modifications can be difficult to obtain so having the right professional support is important.

Do not forget that legal and advocacy assistance is available from your local disability rights advocate or lawyer if you need help.

But driving is more than just getting in the car and going to your

destination. There are complex laws and regulations that determine who can and cannot drive. Some of these rules are not consistent with a disability rights model.

For example, Bioptics Drivers Australia advocate for the clarification of current regulations to ensure that people with central vision loss who use bioptics to drive are legally permitted to do so.

If you have been refused a licence to drive because of your disability, you can seek legal advice from your local disability rights lawyer to help navigate those complex laws and regulations.

Natalie Wade Founder and principal lawyer – Equality Lawyers PH: 08 7084 1190 or Email: natalie@equalitylawyers.com.au

Navigate through your AT needs with AT Chat

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

AT navigators are expert assistive technology (AT) users with specialised training to support their peers to make informed decisions about AT solutions through a free program delivered by AT Chat.

A

t navigator Martin brings his knowledge and lived experience to guide people through the AT journey. He said learning from your peers allows you to streamline your research.

“Lived experience and practice with AT has given me practical awareness of how a piece of AT will work to assist your life and goals. This is so much better than what you can learn from a brochure or internet shopping,” he said.

Community members highly value having peer support to find the right AT solution. One AT user said their

support people find it difficult to keep up with new technologies, so a navigator can be helpful to assist in reaching AT goals.

“I could really use mentoring from someone with knowledge about how AT can enhance my life and increase my independence,” they said.

Another member spoke about the benefit of being guided by someone with lived experience “Being able to speak to a navigator would have helped me skip some of my earlier versions of AT, saving me time and money.”

AT navigators will answer your questions, research information and provide a solution guide that will help you understand your options.

Contact AT Chat today to connect with a navigator for free and start your journey towards your AT goals.

Go to: atchat.com.au/connect

Connect with an

They are expert assistive technology (AT) users with specialised training who are dedicated to utilising their lived experience and knowledge to support their peers to make informed AT decisions.

Get FREE AT advice from the people who use it!

Book a Navigator today!

Scan me to connect

w

atchat.com.au

e at.chat@ilaustralia.org.au t (08) 6202 4700 linkonline.com.au

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Link to...Assistive Technology

WHO launches first global report on Assistive Technology For the first time a report has been made available that gives a global snapshot of the assistive technology sector.

T

he World Health Organization The Global Report on Assistive Technology, made 10 key recommendations intended to make Assitive Technology a reality for all those in need and illustrates the access to and preparedness of countries to support AT.

that will enable them to go to their AT providers with information about what best practice is needed for getting their AT delivered well.

“Everyone in the AT ecosystem will benefit from this report. This includes suppliers and practitioners who recommend these products seeking to find current evidence of good practice. Policy makers in government will also find important directions to improve efficiency of expenditure on AT, at the same time as meeting Australia’s obligations under the CRPD (Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disability).

There were 70 member countries responding to the report about their AT systems, including Australia.

“This is ground-breaking as, for the first time, we have a Global Report which offers a baseline about the unmet need for assistive technology,” Dr Natasha Layton said. Layton is the international lead of ARATA, Australia’s peak body for AT.

“It will give the Australian Government a strategy to measure the unmet need for AT in Australia through instruments such as the rapid AT Assessment tool (rATA) provided by WHO,” she said.

“For both low and-middle income countries, and for high income countries like Australia it gives valuable direction about how to improve access to AT products and services.”

Among the recommendations made in the report were: Measuring access to AT with improvements on affordability, availability and support for people to obtain the AT they needed; Identifying barriers to AT;

She said multi-level action is required now and the report would be essential reading for AT users and their families

Improving the AT system; Preparing for AT in humanitarian crises and Creating enabling environments.

Almost all countries had at least one piece of legislation on access to AT and most had a public budget allocated to AT and a financing mechanism to cover or partly cover AT costs. However, there were large gaps in service provision and trained workforce for AT particularly in the domains of cognition, communication and selfcare.

Currently, 2.5 billion people need AT worldwide and by 2050 this number will reach 3.5 billion, with great disparities in access to AT between low and middle-income countries and high-income countries. For some low and middle-income countries access to AT for those who need it is as low as 3 per cent, while in high-income countries those without access is much lower, with up to 90 per cent of people receiving AT and services.

Download the report here: https://apps.who.int/iris/ handle/10665/354357

Unfold & Go 8 models to choose from: • Wide track versions, for greater stability.

• Soft suspension, for a smoother ride.

Makes travel easy.

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ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

Best Assistive Technology Product Award winner

The Australian Disability Service Awards were announced in Sydney in April, attended by NDIS Shadow Minister Bill Shorten and industry leaders from the health and disability sectors.

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undreds of submissions were received for 12 awards covering all aspects of disability services across Australia from Outstanding Allied Health Organisation, to Outstanding Plan Management through to Outstanding CEO. Three finalists were selected for the Best Assistive Technology Product: • • •

Accessible Australia App (Spinal Life Australia) C-Pen ReaderPen (Scanning Pens Australia) mCare Watch (mCare Digital)

The awards panel of six industry experts selected Scanning Pen’s ReaderPen as the category winner.

Scanning Pens country manager, David Campbell, said “Every year the ReaderPen helps thousands of people with reading difficulties such as dyslexia, autism, ADHD and processing issues. NDIS service providers, speech pathologists, OTs and healthcare professionals across Australia recommend the ReaderPen every day to clients in need. The ReaderPen is used in thousands of primary and secondary schools, libraries and workplaces across Australia.”

The ReaderPen is a handheld assistive tech device that represents a huge quality-of-life change for neurodiverse people and those who may need support to read with confidence. It works by allowing users to scan and

listen to text so that they can access written materials anywhere they happen to be at home, in the classroom or reading the menu at a restaurant.

The pens encourage reluctant readers to read and can boost self-confidence and reduce stress and reading anxiety.

Free ReaderPen Trial Scanning Pens offers healthcare professionals an obligation-free trial.

Speech pathologists, OTs and service providers can evaluate the ReaderPen with clients and colleagues for 30-days.

Contact: PH: 02 8855 7100 or email: david@scanningpens.com or: www.scanningpens.com.au

The ReaderPen assists those with reading difficulties Converts text to speech Allows users to read independently Increase independence & boosts self-confidence Data storage and voice recorder Recommended by OT’s & speech pathologists Free 30-day trial available

For a free 30-day trial or to place an order contact: auinfo@scanningpens.com Tel: 02 8855 7100 #readerpen www.scanningpens.com.au

linkonline.com.au

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Link to...ATSA

ATSA Independent Living Expo Brisbane, held 11-12 May 2022, attracted more than 1650 people despite the weather.

It is great that ATSA is once again able to run the largest assistive technology experience in Australia, supported by more than 90 exhibitors and 30 hours of seminar sessions,” ATSA executive officer David Sinclair said on opening day.

Sarah Styles with Narelle Coyte, Active Adaptive at the first ATSA Adaptive Clothing fashion show

Gena Boult, Showerbuddy and one of ATSA’s youngest attendees

Andrew Grant, Para Ice Hockey Queensland

Team from Great Mates

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Lauren Hunter, Linds Rehab presenting

ATSA

“A

fter three years in the making it was the place to be to find the latest AT innovations supported by quality clinical education. For two days the expo floor buzzed with networking, learning and question-asking along with new products, services and sports that were on display.

“A first for ATSA Independent Living Expo was an adaptive clothing fashion show. With eight models including Sarah, Oscar and Lady from Wheelie Good Productions and clothing from Active Adaptive and EveryHuman it was a fun highlight of the day and will be even bigger in Sydney,” he said.

According to event organisers Interpoint Events managing director Simon Cooper, the Brisbane ATSA Independent Living Expo, was the

largest display of AT ever presented in Queensland. “Every square metre of exhibition space was used at the venue with exhibitors spreading into the corridors and on the ground floor entrance. Had the weather been better we would have had exhibitors outside as well.”

He said the expo is now attracting a wider range of products beyond traditional wheelchairs and converted vehicles. “We saw an increase in mobility aids, beds and home modifications and feedback from attendees was very positive with many saying it took them quite a few hours to get around to see all the exhibitors.”

Congratulations to the award winners Occupational Therapy Australia for their panel session (winners of most pre-registered seminar session), Jonathan Allott and TabTimer winning Best Exhibitor Marketing Campaign) - Mobility Engineering and Invacare Australia & New Zealand thanks for being close runners up.

Winner of the Best Large Stand went to Permobil APAC Well done to Sergei Lazarev.

Save the date: MELBOURNE 24-25 May 2023 Melbourne Showgrounds Epsom Road, Ascot Vale PERTH 31 May - 1 June 2023 Claremont Showground Graylands Rd, Claremont CANBERRA 8-9 November 2023 Exhibition Park (EPIC), Mitchell Stands for 2023 will go on sale July 2022 – if not an ATSA member or a previous exhibitor, email allison.miller@atsa.org.au to ensure you are kept updated.

And the winner is...

Oscar Styles, Allison Miller, ATSA and Matthew Skerritt, EveryHuman at the first ATSA Adaptive Clothing fashion show

Best Small Stand was won by Mrs Pegg’s Handy Line, well done to April Hobbs and Kerry Waller and congratulations to Acorn Stairlifts for coming a close runner up.

Kelly Waller, Mrs Peggs, Sexy Galaxy, TabTimer, April Hobbs, Mrs Peggs, Sergi Lazarer, Permobil, Billy Gee award winners

linkonline.com.au

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Happy Snaps from Brisbane

MELBOURNE 24-25 MAY 2023

MELBOURNE SHOWGROUNDS Epsom Road, Ascot Vale

PERTH

31 MAY - 1 JUN 2023 CLAREMONT SHOWGROUND Graylands Rd, Claremont

CANBERRA 8-9 NOV 2023

EXHIBITION PARK (EPIC) Mitchell, ACT

1300 789 845 www.atsaindependentlivingexpo.com.au Organised by

Media Partners

Link to...News

The Pacific volunteering journey of inclusion specialist Ben Clare

By Alex Oswald *

For nearly two decades Ben Clare, who has been blind since birth, has worked in the Pacific Islands delivering programs and resources for people with vision impairment. I spent a week working with Ben at Lautoka Special School in Fiji, where I witnessed the sincerity and enthusiasm which has won him admiration from politicians, prime ministers and disability professionals from all over the region. Balancing his commitment to grassroots work, Ben juggles roles with the ABC where he works on the election desk engaging with minority communities and as a board member of Aspen Medical where he is supervising their inclusion policy.

Presenting to a leadership group of the Fiji school for the Blind.

Fijian Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama or work colleagues like the ABC’s Laura Tingle.

Ben Clare with Shaheen Asgar, president of the Fiji school for the Blind.

I

n the Lautoka Special School’s one air-conditioned room, Ben sat teaching a blind Indo-Fijian girl, quietly encouraging her as she struggled to write the word ‘because’ on the Dell computer he had donated to the school. “You’ll be writing quickly in no time,” he assured her.

Ben’s reputation amongst the Pacific islands disability policy makers has

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made him a go-to expert in inclusive education implementation and disability advocacy and a role model for the social impact people with disability can generate and drive from within themselves.

Watching Ben’s attentiveness to the girl, it seemed difficult to believe that he could be just as comfortable rubbing shoulders with leaders such as

Ben’s visit to Lautoka was a one-stop in a two-week tour of Fiji sponsored by the latest organisation he is affiliated with, global certifier Exemplar International, where he worked as an inclusion consultant.

Compared to Australia, developing nations like Fiji struggle to raise revenue to fund disability programs for access to the services they need. With its crumbling, cramped and ancient facilities, Lautoka Special School exemplifies the resource shortages in Pacific Island disability education.

NEWS

To fill this gap, people like Ben, supported by organisations such as Exemplar International, are crucial in setting up programs to empower people with disability.

Speaking later to me on a zoom call from his home in Shoal Bay NSW, Ben described Exemplar as a “unique opportunity in the development space because we don’t have established rules or regulations.” Instead, he said Exemplar can “listen to the organisations that we are working with and designing programs they specifically want.”

Currently, Lautoka Special School is a-part of a $120,000 pitch that Ben is making to the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to kickstart a meaningful employment program. The program stems from Ben’s firm belief that “everyone has a talent somewhere and it’s just a point of finding that talent and using it.”

He said working with Exemplar is a dream job as he is finally getting paid to do what he loves most in the world.

But to become an authority on disability in the Pacific, Ben had to grind out a formidable apprenticeship. He has visited 12 Pacific Island countries over the past 18 years, often at his own expense.

Ben’s volunteering journey began in 2004 with a two-week trip to Goroka, a remote region in the Eastern Highlands of Papua New Guinea (PNG).

His initial enthusiasm coming from a curiosity about wanting to experience different cultures.

Working in the isolated, humid, and culturally unfamiliar PNG was a far cry from Ben’s upbringing in country NSW. Attending Northolm Grammar School in the late 90s he was lucky to have a family that could afford to send to a private school which could make adjustments to his education.”

He found that students in PNG had never had an opportunity to work with a blind teacher.

Desperate to soak up as much knowledge as they could Ben said it was amazing to have people so interested in what he was teaching.

After this first successful trip Ben continued to return to PNG whenever he could take time off from his work at News Limited as a journalist.

After four years of travelling an opportunity to volunteer on a twoyear assignment with Australian Aid in the Solomon Islands came along.

Comfortably ensconced at News Limited Ben understood that he was taking a big risk. Trying to understand why someone would leave their job mid-career, he said “I just had a feeling that it was right and if things didn’t work out I knew I wanted to pursue volunteering much more.”

For two years Ben worked in the Solomon Islands as Australia Aid’s first totally vision impaired volunteer. When he arrived he found three basic issues facing people with disability in the Pacific: lack of belief, lack of resources and lack of knowledge. Consequently, the most challenging aspects of the placement for Ben was the difficulty of creating programs that were sustainable and useful. This notion of ‘usefulness’ was a theme I picked up on throughout my week working with Ben. It demonstrated an authentic desire to listen, rather than simply tell people what they needed - a desire to be effective rather than be a hero.

Being cautious and open to new experiences has put Ben in a few interesting situations.

On one occasion Ben was visiting a remote island with an eye care team, when suddenly, the guy driving boat decided to give their fuel away to a mate, leaving them stranded in the middle of the ocean for ages, waiting for someone to deliver fuel to continue their journey.

However, Ben’s patience was one of the primary reasons for his success in the Solomon Islands. One of his proudest achievements came in the form of a support group for vision impaired people which allowed them to come together and talk about issues they were facing. “It was not my efforts that encouraged them but at last they were told that they could do something, rather than being told that they couldn’t do anything.”

Despite his altruism and passion for volunteering Ben has also pursued opportunities for his own development when they have arisen. In the early 2000s Ben represented Australia at the now defunct Arafura Games, a disability sports contest for Pacific Nations. He has also worked for a slew of disability advocacy organisations including SCOPE, The Royal Institute for the Deaf and Blind as well as Maven.

Currently, he is on the election desk for the ABC specifically engaging with minority communities.

Hearing about the wide variety of experiences he has exposed himself to, it is clear that one of Ben’s strengths is a unique curiosity which has imparted an unabating zeal for life. Whether he has any regrets about the path he has chosen, he is quick to respond: “ I have no regrets, obviously if I had stayed with the newspapers, I would have a much higher career in the media and more money, but for me I really love working with people at the grassroots level.”

Looking to the future Ben wants to see more people with disability getting involved in volunteering and the wider international development sector.

“You learn so much about yourself and about the culture you are working in…I would love more people with disability to do more volunteering.”

While reflecting that his work will never be done because there will always be differences and difficulties, a lack of money or a lack of something.

However, such a possibility does not intimidate him. Because if at least one person benefits from his work, like the Indo-Fijian girl with the new laptop, Ben knows that he will have succeeded. *Alex Oswald is a freelance journalist based in Melbourne, currently working in Fiji. linkonline.com.au

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Link to...News

An empowered approach to digital transformation How an all-women team transformed operations and delivery care.

“For successful change management, employees across all regions must accept, embrace and support the new system,” project manager Helen Conway said. “We picked our key team members from different departments, and they became our tech champions and advocates. Constant feedback and collaboration helped this all-woman team secure the endorsement and adoption they needed from the rest of Ability Options’ staff.”

The Ability Options team

A

bility Options, a NSW-based provider offering disability and employment services, recently transitioned to a new system completely changing the way the organisation operated.

Ability Options’ chief operating officer, Naomi McCorkell, said recent growth required different systems and processes throughout the organisation.

There was an urgent call for a company-wide digital transformation with a centralised, interoperable software solution that could provide a single source of truth and streamline operations across regions.

“To ready our organisation for the new tech rollout, we gathered the best people from within the Ability Options team, individuals that people already looked up to, that showed natural leadership skills and who would be trusted by their peers. What we created, in the end, was an incredibly passionate team that happened to be all female,” McCorkell said.

Ability Options chose Lumary for its company-wide software solution. With Lumary’s complete healthcare platform, Ability Options had the solution they needed to transform how their organisation operates at every level.

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The collaboration was not just limited to one location. The project team regularly coordinated with people in different regions to ensure the entire organisation integrated the platform successfully.

Since the new rollout, all 1,200 employees at Ability Options use Lumary’s platform, a massive uptake and a testament to the hard work and efforts of the Ability Options change management team.

Positive Impact So Far Ability Options’ disability services and audit and compliance subject matter experts had a powerful impact on the success and suitability of the final solution. Working closely with Lumary, these team members cleaned participants’ data for streamlined billing and claiming, helped design their new incident management process and implemented rostering and scheduling.

Their in-house reporting specialist helped define reporting using Lumary’s analytics dashboards to provide easier access to data insights.

“Before implementation, we had multiple disparate systems and processes that needed to be streamlined across the entire organisation”, McCorkell said.

Since the company-wide tech implementation, staff are more

connected, working collaboratively and sharing information effortlessly and securely. “This transformation has hugely improved our efficiency by allowing us to have control over the whole documentation process, make data-driven decisions, track enquiries and qualify participants. We can now gather all information about business enquiries in one place”, she said.

Ability Options said goodbye to spreadsheets and manually collating information from different regions.

Now there is a single source of truth of participant information accessible in real-time using Lumary’s secure platform. Previously, this information was sent in emails, passed on verbally or housed in paper-based case notes.

With the new solution firmly embedded, the Ability Options team is more coordinated and efficient, ensuring the focus is always on the delivery of quality supports which was the ultimate end goal for the change management team. “Now that our support workers are better informed and more connected, they can focus their energy and time on participants’ wellbeing and delivering the best outcomes rather than scrambling to gather and share information through archaic systems,” McCorkell said.

Integrating Lumary across all its business processes has supported Ability Options in its mission to be a genuinely person-centred practice.

The complete digital transformation of Ability Options has enabled us to better support participants in leading their very best lives and being the star of their own show, and that is what matters most,” she said.

For more information about the Lumary Healthcare Platform, go to: www.lumary.com.au

NEWS

New skills program connecting well for teenagers with autism.

By Dr Bahareh Afsharnejad

The teenage years are a time of change, when youth begin to define who they are in relation to their peers, start new relationships and begin their journey towards independence. it was like to be the majority, rather than the minority”.

A 12-year-old autistic boy said: “I have learned to understand multiple different attitudes and emotions by facial expression and body language. It has helped me understand emotions in real-life situations”.

We have also found that KONTAKT helped autistic teens feel less anxious about socialising. A 16-year-old male autistic teen said: “I learned that every feeling is normal and it’s okay to feel happy, sad, angry, scared, mad, upset, etc”.

W

hile all teenagers experience some challenges, autistic teens can find these years particularly difficult. With the aim of supporting autistic teens to develop their social awareness and skills, social skills programs have internationally become one of the most common programs delivered to this group.

For over five years, the Curtin Autism Research Group, in partnership with the Karolinska Institute in Sweden and the Autism Association of Western Australia has been developing and evaluating the efficacy of a social skills group program called KONTAKT Social Skills Toolbox for autistic youth.

KONTAKT is an evidence-based program that started in Germany and has been available to Swedish autistic children and teens for over a decade.

A generous donation from the Stan

Perron Charitable Foundation made the adaptation of KONTAKT to the Australian context via a gold standard approach possible, offering vital support to 90 autistic WA teenagers.

It’s clear that the program is making a tangible difference to the lives and social interactions of these teens, and our research is now exploring the impact of KONTAKT on primary schoolaged autistic children.

Dr Afsharnejad is from the Curtin University Autism Research Group

Our research project found that KONTAKT, which clearly focuses on discussing and practising social skills, helps autistic teens to reach their personal social goals in the long term more effectively than social groups alone. Teens reported enjoying the program and expressed that it had increased their awareness of their social environment, encouraging them to be more socially active.

As one 14-year-old female autistic teen said: “I was able to better understand the concept of boundaries and personal social preference and learn how to better talk to others going through similar things to me. Also, what linkonline.com.au

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Link to...Accommodation & Home Support

Careport – the accessible and portable bathroom solution The Careport is an accessible and portable bathroom solution available in three sizes designed to make life more comfortable and VIP Access are the only Queensland distributor.

D

esigned with optimal comfort in mind, the portable Careport unit can be provided as either a standalone shower or toilet and shower combination and installed and removed quickly in a home with minimal disruption.

This practical idea provides an invaluable long-term solution for those situations where a renovation is not feasible or for a short-term option.

Those who benefit from the Careport include clients that only have one bathroom in their home during renovations, clients who have been discharged from hospital and are waiting on funding for home

modifications and clients living in rental properties.

and electrical compliant enabling safety and durability.

For those dealing with medical or physical conditions, accessing a standard bathroom can cause a significant amount of distress or even mean that they are unable to stay in their own homes.

It comprises a conventional flushable toilet, its own hot water system and macerator pump with the shower rose able to be adjusted to suit, suitable for virtually any type of shower stool or commode chair.

The CarePort is designed to minimise this stress and ensure that people can live each day as normally as possible.

The freestanding unit is safe and easy to clean and includes curtains for added privacy as well a as wedge ramp for easier access.

The advantages of hiring are that the Careport can be located almost anywhere in the home, that is undercover, and there is no need for clients to empty waste, it is plumbing

enquiries@vipaccess.net.au

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Visit our website at: www.vipaccess.net.au or email: enquiries@vipaccess.net.au for more information.

Aruma supports customers to use assistive technology

ACCOMMODATION & HOME SUPPORT

To live their best life in new SDA

A

t Aruma, we never use a one-size-fits-all approach.

Our customers know how to live their best life and we are here to support them to do just that.

From an extra pair of hands to prepare a snack outside of scheduled support hours, or to help out in case of an emergency, there is freedom and peace of mind.

A new and innovative way we are helping eligible customers in Newcastle, NSW, to live how they choose is through purpose-built Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) in the heart of the city.

Customers have the option of reducing their one-to-one supports and increasing their independence. There is also greater choice and control over who provides day-to-day assistance and personal support.

These apartments are the first for Aruma that enable residents to access a Shared Support model.

Similar to an onsite concierge, Aruma provides support to residents at their request at a push of a button. Aruma support workers are on site in the building, ready to assist whenever they are needed.

These apartments and building are fitted with home automation and technological assistance to create homes that support customers’ independence whilst also being able to alert the onsite support in an emergency, or when an extra pair of hands is needed for a short time. They are designed to create comfortable

independence, while living in a safe and secure environment.

The voice-command technology can help these customers do a range of things around their home including: • • • • •

Turning lights off and on Putting blinds up and down Changing the temperature setting on their air conditioner Operating their kitchen cooktop Opening and closing doors.

At Aruma, we think this clever technology helps people with mobility barriers complete daily tasks easily which can boost their self-esteem, confidence and independence.

Read more about this accommodation offering here.

moving out was the best thing I ever did just don’t tell my mum At Aruma, we can help you find a place to call home.

From living on your own, sharing with friends, or meeting new ones, it’s up to you! Interested?

Call us on 1300 538 746 or visit us at aruma.com.au

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Link to...Accommodation & Home Support

Supporting the rural community SACARE brings care to the coast

SACARE general manager, business development Stacy Mckenzie and SACARE CEO Chloe Kempe at The Hub, Victor Harbor.

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egional communities deserve the same access to quality supports as its city members and that is why SACARE have brought their In-Home Community Support and Allied Health services to the Fleurieu.

And they have named it The Hub, as it will be exactly this. A central location where SACARE is creating opportunities for participants and families to achieve their goals and enrich their daily living.

The Hub will focus on delivering greater independence, trusted support, fun and function to the daily life of its members with high needs, complex requirements and day-to-day living assistance.

offices with local businesses such as Psychmed and Neami.

Australian family-owned provider of unique and personalised services.

High demand versus low supply saw some families drive to Adelaide to access disability services, or experience wait lists of six, 12, or even 18 months.

The Marshall Family, founders of SACARE, have local roots in the community with a home on the Fleurieu.

Greater choice, greater care, greater community.

SACARE’s warm, friendly, and highly skilled staff will work with you to provide solutions for in-home support, therapies and access to their THRIVE program.

They are excited to grow long-standing relationships and a trusted presence in the community.

Developing The Hub has been one of the most rewarding and insightful projects for SACARE.

The team love to get involved and work closely with families in the local area.

Their wish is to integrate and understand the regions values, needs, and wants.

A space with ample room for various activities, SACARE will also share its

The Hub is an extension of SACARE’s long established, proudly South

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Over 25 years of industry experience and the highest value for enriching daily living along with great attention to their participant’s needs.

SACARE is delighted to support the Fleurieu community with SACARE services.

Want to learn more?

You can drop into The Hub and meet Moya Preece or reach out to customer engagement coordinator, Tamara Fox who look forward to creating longstanding bonds within the community.

The Hub, 6 George Main Road, Victor Harbor/PH: (08) 8544 1821/ www.sacare.com.au

Link to...News

Inaugural Australian Disability Services Conference Setting a new benchmark for the future of the industry.

Delegates networking and taking in the view at the ICC event venue, Darling Harbour

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ne of the biggest events on the disability service calendar, the Australian Disability Services Conference (ADSC), recently welcomed more than 300 people to the Sydney International Conference Centre where the focus was on building an innovative workforce and celebrating and the extraordinary hard work and passion of the sector.

“After such a successful first event in Sydney, we now have our sights set on the ADSC event coming up on the Gold

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Coast,” event host One Community cofounder and director, Kellie Puxty said.

and MC was Paralympian Annabelle Williams.

“It is important that we build on this success and continue to connect, inspire and celebrate the sector’s outstanding achievements. We are excited that ADSC will continue to play a pivotal role in contributing to future reform and positive sector transformation.”

ADSC kicked off with a compelling and thought-provoking keynote address by Laura O’Reilly on Creating Unbridled Opportunity – why the disability sector needs to re-think traditional service models. The social entrepreneur works to create change in the Australian disability sector and has co-founded two organisations that support and empower young Australians with disabilities.

The conference was opened by NDIS Minister Senator Linda Reynolds

NEWS

Conference attendees gained insights from their peers and leaders in the field to build and enhance their services and businesses and ultimately improve the lives of people with disability.

NDIS Shadow Minister Bill Shorten opened the awards, with Paralympian wheelchair racer Christie Dawes and three-time Paralympian track and field athlete Don Elgin as MCs.

The conference was followed by an evening of glitz and glamour when 35 finalists and 12 winners from across Australia were celebrated for their achievements and contributions to the industry.

There were some with exceptionally inspiring stories. Tyler Edwards from Brighter Connections on the Gold Coast, and winner of Most Outstanding Support Worker, was nominated by a participant who credits Tyler with

saving her life and said ‘the Tylers of this world need to be recognised’.

Prosthetic company Innovo Prosthetics, based in Sydney and winners of Best New Business, focus on sourcing the latest technology from around the world as well as on personal touches to help their clients, including 10-yearold Neve, an aspiring fashion designer and proud owner of a shiny pink, high tech arm.

From a shortlist of 35 finalists Australia wide, winners of the 12 categories were: Best New Business: Innovo Prosthetics, NSW Best Assistive Technology Product: Scanning Pens Australia, NSW Most Outstanding Early Intervention Program: Therapy Pro, QLD Most Outstanding CEO/Director: Phil Hayes-Brown, Wallara Australia, VIC Most Innovative Employment Program: Jigsaw, NSW Most Outstanding Plan Management Company: Plan Tracker, NSW Innovation in Community Programs: Abilities Unlimited Australia, ACT Most Outstanding Support Worker: Tyler Edwards, Brighter Connections, QLD Most Outstanding Accommodation Provider: Civic Disability Services, NSW Most Outstanding Remote Service Program: Wallara Australia, VIC Most Outstanding Allied Health Organisation: Active Ability, NSW Most Outstanding Support Coordinator: Lisa Duffy, Fighting Chance Australia, NSW Attention has now turned to the ADSC 2022 event when the red carpet will again be rolled out at the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre, on November 9.

Stay up to date with ADSCA and register your interest in the Gold Coast event, by visiting: adsca.com.au

Senator Linda Reynolds, Minister for NDIS

Pieta Manning from Mable & Elise James from Plan Tracker

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Link to...News

Tender Loving Cuisine, Major Sponsor of the Conference

Laura O’Reilly OAM, Keynote presenter

NDIS Shadow Minister Bill Shorten with (from L-R): Dr Kylie Henderson, founder/MD Care Squared and awards major sponsor; Laurie Leigh, CEO National Disability Services; Shelley Youman, co-founder/director One Community and ADSCA host; Maureen Lumello, health services manager & Jack Barker, founder/CEO of Tender Loving Cuisine and conference major sponsor; Laura O’Reilly OAM, co-founder of Hire Up and Fighting Chance, conference keynote speaker.

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NEWS

Marie Erswell from Families4Families ABI Peer Support Network in Q&A.

Best New Business L-R, Cameron Ward, Innovo Prosthetics (winner); Tracie Barker, #Harry’s House (finalist); Yann Charavel, Supported Travel eXperiences (finalist); Cameron Difalco, Aver Plan Managers (award category sponsor)

Most Outstanding Support Worker Category L-R Tyler Edwards, Brighter Connections (winner), Brooke Fitzpatrick, Challenge Community Services (finalist); Lisa Anderson, Lisa Anderson Support Services (finalist); Katherine Carlin, marketing manager, Cardinal Health (award category sponsor)

Care Squared Team, Major Sponsor of Awards

MCs Don Elgin & Christie Dawes linkonline.com.au

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Link to...Travel and Leisure

All-abilities group to take on 18-day trek Paul Pritchard and Tasmanian local and friend Paul Allen, who both with brain injury are part of a larger team of people with various disabilities who will walk the 237km spine of Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges, on the challenging Larapinta Trail in the Northern Territory.

S

tarting on July 5, the group aim to be the first all-abilities team to complete this challenging walk, which will be filmed and aired at a later date.

This same team completed the legendary journey from the lowest point to the highest point in Australia, from Kati Thanda/Lake Eyre to Targangil/Mount Kosciusko. This cycle journey was 2221km and took 43 days.

The latest challenge, named ‘The Larapinta Adaptive’, aligns with Pritchard’s mantra and outlook on life.

“By trekking the West MacDonnell’s and filming it we are not saying ‘Hey, look at us, aren’t we special’,” Pritchard said. “That would be doing a disservice to all people with disabilities whose skills might lie in other areas rather than the physical, as well as perpetuating the superhuman narrative.

“No, hopefully someone who looks like us might see us and know that they are not alone and can have a go.

That matters.”

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Formerly a cutting-edge rock climber and mountaineer, Pritchard’s life changed forever in 1998 when climbing Tasmania’s infamous Totem Pole on the Tasman Peninsula. A TV-sized boulder fell from 25 meters and inflicted such terrible head injuries that doctors thought he might never walk or even speak again.

While recovering in hospital Pritchard wrote his award-winning book The Totem Pole, and then went on to pursue his passion for adventure and adrenaline. He resumed rock-climbing in 2009 and eventually climbed the Totem Pole, 18 years after his accident.

The trek is being supported by The National Assistance Card Service.

The National Assistance Card is a personalised card to assist people with disability and/or health conditions in the community.

Should you wish to learn more about this incredible journey and/or become a supporter, click the following link: https://www.pozible.com/profile/ larapinta-adaptive

Team 1. Paul Pritchard - Author, adventurer and disability educator. AG Spirit Of Adventure Awardee - Brain injury with hemiplegia.

2. Paul Allen - Furniture designer/maker, author and comedian - Brain injury with working memory problems.

3. Walter Van Praag - Writer and Adventurer - Cystic fibrosis with 38 per cent lung function.

4. Conrad Wansborough - Safety manager - solo sailor - Adventurer.

5. Vonna Keller - RN medic - Lung cancer.

6. Melinda Oogjes - Support - Disability advocate.

Timeline • July 3 - Arrive in Alice Springs • July 5 - Begin walking from Alice Springs • July 23 - Finish on the summit of Mount Sonder • July 25 - All back in Alice Springs

Cruising – get aboard

TRAVEL & LEISURE

Cruising offers travellers the ultimate holiday experience. Relaxing, convenient, and ever changing you get to unpack once but enjoy a new destination each day.

Ships offer purpose built accessible cabins, fully accessible restaurants, entertainment venues and public areas. Multiple elevators offer ease in moving around the ship and vessels offer accessible embarkation and disembarkation.

ruises offer fantastic value for money with inclusive prices that include everything you need for a memorable holiday. Food, accommodation, activities, onboard entertainment and transportation between destinations are all included in the cabin cost.

Cruise lines have been working closely with the Australian government to establish health protocols and guidelines to keep you safe onboard including: • Covid-19 acknowledgement for all guests • Guest and crew vaccination requirements • Pre-cruise Covid-19 testing requirements • Pre-cruise health declaration • Staggered check-ins • New procedures for embarkation and disembarkation including masks where social distancing is not possible.

Leisure Options has announced the recommencement of its cruise program as cruise ships begin to return to Australian waters following an absence of two years.

Cruise ships are fully accessible to people with a wide range of disabilities and provide a fantastic option for an exciting and fun-filled holiday.

If you are ready to pack your bags and wake up in a new destination each morning call Leisure Options on: 1300 363 713 to book your next cruise holiday.

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From the moment you board your ship there is a plethora of activities and amenities to enjoy. There is never a dull moment, you can be as busy or relaxed as you choose. Whether its ziplining across the deck, trying your luck at trivia or sipping a cocktail by the pool, it’s your holiday to enjoy your own way.

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Link to...Travel and Leisure

Flynn Rigby has travel plans And people with disability are firmly in his travel sights.

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ynn Rigby wants to make travelling in Australia easier for people with disability. Post-covid most of his trips have been with family to local places around his hometown of Cairns and the Gold Coast. Flynn and his mother Jennifer spoke to Link about the pluses and minuses when it comes to the accessibility of holiday locations.

Flynn has always had a passion for travel and loves to look up hotel accommodation and sites such as Trivago and Agoda to search for various hotels. He likes to know where his friends go on holiday too and often looks up places they are visiting so he can see what they are like. He has also helped find accommodation online for several of his friends.

This led to him thinking about a travel blog from his perspective of travelling

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as a person with an invisible disability.

His aim was to highlight what makes travel easier for him and how some places are doing so much to make travel accessible to all.

in the community and travel. He loves to read and can use maps and assistive technology, such as iPads to order room service, etc. which helps him to be more independent.

Flynn launched his travel blog ‘Everybody Deserves a Holiday’ in March, which has already caught the attention of Travengers, a NDIS registered, Australian based supported travel company, that contacted Flynn and asked him to be a part of an online conference for the Asia/Australia Pacific region on accessible travel.

Flynn was more than happy to share his experiences and ideas and be an online speaker at the event that was held in May.

This 19-year-old is also a volunteer with the Salvation Army, does work experience/training part-time in a local café and has support workers helping him to build his skills to do more volunteer work and hopefully one day get paid employment.

Flynn has autism and an intellectual impairment and does need help with communication and support to get out

According to Jennifer the NDIS has assisted Flynn when it comes speech therapy, OT therapy and support work to do some volunteering in the community, but she said extra travel funding would be a great plus for him so he can take the opportunity to make trips and put the information on his blog.

TRAVEL & LEISURE

“Taking a trip independently of his family, but with the support of others would help him to grow and develop his own skills. He really wants to review travel so others like him will know what to look out for when it comes to accessible travel arrangements,” she said.

Post-covid and the yen to travel gathers pace Flynn told Link when he writes his blogs his focus is on his personal experience and needs. “I don't go into the details about people with physical disabilities, as I don’t know enough about what their needs are, except when it comes to ramps or smooth paths.”

He said the best holiday accommodation should include friendly and helpful staff...

As to why he launched the blog he said: “To be able to give tips on places where the staff or the facilities have made travel easier for me and I hope it will inspire others to get out of their comfort zone and go on a holiday or try something new.”

He said the best holiday accommodation should include friendly and helpful staff, who are trained to explain things clearly, lots of signage to easily find your room or the pool.

Also, when checking in and out somewhere with less noise as main reception areas can get busy and crowded.

One of his favourite places is the Gold Coast visiting the theme parks, and Singapore: “clean, modern and safe with great things to see and do”.

Flynn has a dog, so pet-friendly accommodation is on his list. “Recently I wrote about Crystalbrook Bailey Hotel in Cairns where we stayed with our dog which was a fun experience. And one of my most popular blogs.”

Flynn is planning a trip to Fitzroy Island on the Great Barrier Reef as well as to the Undara Lava tubes in the Volcanic National Park, which are both close to Cairns. Trips to Brisbane and Melbourne to see Michael Bublé and Ed Sheeran are on the travel agenda too.

https://www. everybodydeservesaholiday.com/post/ doggycation-at-crystalbrook-baileyin-cairns

“People can contact me about my blog.

Some local tourism operators have done so inviting me to visit their attractions and write about the experience.

“What really appeals to me is having the opportunity to try different forms of travel, such as rail, cruises, camping, farm stays, glamping or safaris, or just places that are unusual.”

He has a Facebook page, 'Everybody deserves a holiday', where people can comment or contact via messenger and an Instagram account as well and a webpage: www.everybodydeservesaholiday.com.au If people subscribe to his blog, they can get an email notification when he reviews something new. linkonline.com.au

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TRAVEL & LEISURE

Getting up close with New Zealand’s coastal wildlife has never been simpler Now that the international borders are opening up, New Zealand is an ideal first foray from your shores if you are thinking of dipping your feet in the travel bucket again.

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he range of activities and experiences within a short distance is a real plus for those craving adventure but wary of straying too far from home.

Ability Adventures owner and occupational therapist Marina Hanger is building itineraries for international visitors again. She has a whole host of ideas and ways to break down barriers and make more things possible for clients with different types of disability with tailored packages that include sourcing specialist equipment, catering for strict dietary needs and building experiences around individual levels of mobility.

New Zealand’s Southern coastal regions offer rare opportunities to get

up close with nature, from accessible nature trails to an array of wildlife colonies, including penguins, Royal Albatross and sea lions, as well as popular Eco tourism cruises for dolphin and whale watching, and with more options than ever before.

Whether it’s a world heritage site like the spectacular scenery of Queenstown and Milford Sound or a visit to scene from the Lord of the Rings, there are tailorable excursions and immersive activities available to match your travel needs.

Ability Adventures can also work with clients who come within the Australian national disability insurance scheme (NDIS). As a fully qualified occupational

therapist, Marina can itemise tour costs to enable individuals to claim costs for aspects of your holiday that specifically relate to your disability.

With direct flights into Christchurch and Queenstown coming back on stream, there’s really no need to wait any longer to get dust off your passport and start planning your first, or next, New Zealand experience.

www.abilityadventures.co.nz linkonline.com.au

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NOVA Employment has helped thousands of NSW businesses Gain access to a talent pool brimming with skilled people with disability.

Meet Michael – the people person

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eet Michael, who thanks to NOVA Employment, has been in the workforce for 16 years working at Campbelltown Catholic Club. It didn’t take long for the club to realise his potential and the value he brings to their workplace culture.

Michael currently works as a kitchen hand under chef Tim Fuller who has nothing but praise for Michael’s ability.

“Working with Michael has definitely changed my perception of working with people with disabilities.

At first, I was kind of sceptical, I didn’t expect a lot, but he has helped to increase my respect and open my eyes to what people are capable of,” Fuller said.

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NOVA Employment took the time to match Michael to a job that suits his needs and personality. Michael enthusiastically greets every shift.

“I put on my apron and gloves, make my way to the sink and get started, stacking the crates with the plates, then put them through the dishwasher.

I always do a good job,” he said.

Employment comes with its financial benefits, but also brings much more.

Michael is a people person, and his work enables him the social interaction he desires.

“My favourite thing about working is being out in the public and being very social with other people,” he said.

His enthusiasm is contagious and fellow team members glow when they chat about Michael.

“He is a joy to work with. Very reliable, always has a smile on his face and gets the job done. It’s quite rewarding as

well to see someone come in and be so happy to have an opportunity, ”Fuller said.

Michael got the job through NOVA Employment, who continue to check in and ensure he is on the right track. Julie Multari is the local NOVA Employment manager. “Any business in any industry can hire someone with disability, whether it’s an entry level position or even a qualified position,” she said.

Campbelltown Catholic Club prides themselves in a diverse workforce and HR manager, Amy Walker said “diversity for the club is extremely important for us and Michael is a valued member of the team.”

If you are a person with disability seeking employment, living in Sydney or the Southern Highlands, or want to learn more about hiring people with disability, give NOVA Employment a call on: 02 8886 5800 or visit: www.novaemployment.com.au

www.novaemployment.com.au

Link to...Employment

Getting Clean, Doing Good SA Group Enterprises in conjunction with Minda Inc has been building the capability and capacity of their commercial laundry operation located in Lonsdale South Australia.

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inda Laundry has a proud history of providing tailored services to the disability community, and in 2016 expanded to their state-of-the-art commercial facility when they opened their purpose-built operation that provides meaningful employment to over 35 staff with disability.

by resident and that’s not something that can be automated.”

team that goes to clients to deliver and pick up their linens.”

“Our staff are not just in sorting, but also in receiving and going out on the trucks and their accuracy and determination is fantastic,” Facilities Services commercial manager Nils Wartemann said.

As confirmed by ACH Group, a client of the laundry since 2016, “Minda is one of our vitals partners. Without regular, prompt service and availability of linens we would not be able to deliver our service,” Hospitality Services head, Ivan Zrinscak said. “They are quick to solve a problem, their staff is courteous and always very helpful, and the service team have worked with us diligently to assist in our needs during the past three years and has meant that our operations continue seamlessly to our clients.”

“The significant portion of our operation is contracts with aged-care providers, hospitals, accommodation and hospitality, but we’re also able to secure contracts for things like clothing that other companies can’t do,” Nils said. “Our supported employees give us a competitive edge in that these loads are sorted by house address or

Maintaining a client focus is equally important to the staff that are employed at the laundry. “We love working here” David Cotterill said, “it is full of good people that have become friends and I enjoy making sure that things go out clean and looking like new”. Jim Taylor agreed, “I have built up my skills and now I am a part of the

The team are also highly skilled at pulling together to get jobs done.

Sportsmed SA Nursing & Clinical Services director, Alison Zilm said “Minda Laundry has provided an exceptional service to our healthcare facilities”. This dedication to quality was also recognised by Wartemann.

“During the height of the Covid pandemic, we were turning over 110 tonnes of laundry per week and Minda Laundry kept pace and ensured our customers had what they needed to respond effectively,” he said.

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As one of ten SA Group Enterprise businesses and making up a part of the facilities team that services catering, ground maintenance and cleaning, Minda Laundry are a professional, capable laundry facility that supports your business when you are in the thick of it and just need it done.

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Link to...News

A watermelon project that reaps what it sows In 2021, Focus on Ability Society (FOAS) ventured into the watermelon farming business in Malawi, Southern Africa, with the aim of establishing other sources of money for further long-term sustainability for rural communities.

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ith the support of US$4,000 from Nova Employment, watermelons were grown on three acres of land with 55,000 kgs harvested and 44,000 sold with sales of US$17,000 and a net profit of US$6,900.

To prevent losses of watermelon fruit due to lack of storage facilities another idea was born – processing watermelon fruit into jam that can take up to three years to expire. Over 6,000 bottles of jam were sold. Out of the US$38,737 total sales to date made from selling watermelons, US$9,600 came from watermelon jam, which finished in February this year.

The jam was sold in local markets, but government certification is still needed to supply supermarkets.

Meeting Malawi Bureau of Standards

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and getting full trademarks can take up to a year or longer, Nova Employment CEO Martin Wren told Link. “It is a gradual process, but we believe we can succeed in our endeavours to achieve this and remain optimistic we will have stable returns in two to three years.”

The watermelon project has provided work to 30 villagers with over 100 people from rural communities and semi-urban areas attracted to watermelon farming, and 19 of the villagers have started practicing. This is an add-on to the planned mass production of watermelon jam, which requires a good quantity of fruit to meet production.

“We have employed 25 young people, including nine with disability on a temporary basis to assist with the

production, packaging and marketing of watermelon jam. We are also giving business to the transport sector in Malawi to deliver watermelons from farms to designated markets,” Wren said.

According to Wren the project has changed the face of the villages.

A football club from a home village, has been nicknamed The Watermelon FC, as a result of the entire village turning to watermelon farming. It earns four time more than rice with its shortterm turnaround compared to rice farming which takes up to a year.

“If the right button is pressed, watermelon farming is a financial transformation for both short-and longterm success,” Wren said. “It requires good preparation in technical and financial terms.”

HAPPENINGS

©Disney

Sensory Friendly Session for Disney: The Magic of Animation.

The Queensland Museum, Brisbane is running Sensory Friendly Sessions where people of all ages can spend quiet time, wander at their own pace, and engage in conversations with museum staff. There will be a designated quiet area and earmuffs are available.

Session dates: Saturday July 23 : 8:15am-10:15am; Saturday October 22 : 8:15am – 10:15am; Thursday December 15: 3:30pm-6pm.

Visit: www.disney.qm.qld.gov.au

A literary launch in Sydney

Australian novelist 94-yearold Natalie Scott, with TV presenter, Richard Morecroft, at the launch of her latest book, Wobbly Tales & Other Stories.

Scott creates the inner voices of people who live on the margins and provides a fascinating insight into the lives of disadvantaged people in the community.

Wobbly Tales is available from Gleebooks or online at: www.bouleybaybooks.com

Adaptive Fashion takes to the runway

Sunshine in the new playgound

The debut of the Adaptive Clothing Collective at Afterpay Australian Fashion Week was held at the Carriageworks, Sydney.

Sunshine Butterflies on the Sunshine Coast has opened a new accessible playground at its 15-acre facility in Cooroibah.

For the first time the event featured models with disability, wearing collections from Christina Stephens and JAM.

There is an accessible nest swing, wheelchair accessible paths and ramps, a tree house, water play features with a natural stream and wishing well along with sand, water and mud play that are all accessible from a wheelchair.

One of the models was Dr Dinesh Palipana, the first quadriplegic medical intern in Queensland.

Ambassador Alex Leary with Sunshine Butterflies CEO Leanne Walsh.

What's On Calendar AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

AUGUST 5-6: Sydney Disability Expo Sydney Olympic Park www.sydneydisabilityexpo.com.au

SEPTEMBER 2-3: Canberra Disability Expo Exhibition Park www.canberradisabilityexpo.com.au

AUGUST 15-16: National Disability Summit Crown Melbourne info@inform.com.au

SEPTEMBER 8: RUOK? Day www.ruok.org.au

SEPTEMBER 21: National Virtual Disability Conference www.vdc.delegateconnect.co/contact SEPTEMBER 20-22: Art Reach Accessibility Virtual Conference conference@art-reach.org

All events were correct as this issue went to press. Refer to websites for updates. linkonline.com.au

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How Nas Campanella landed her ABC job

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nsurprisingly, people were quick to give then budding journalist Nas Campanella unpaid work, but as soon as she graduated and wanted to start her career and be paid accordingly, her disability became a disappointing sticking point.

“That was when I encountered really hostile receptions,” she told Vision Australia’s podcast series Career Path. “I decided to never disclose my disability in job applications, as I wanted to be judged on merit and the skills I had.”

Blind since she was six months old, the national disability affairs reporter for the ABC remembers the way the room would shift when she turned up for job interviews.

“You could feel the temperature drop and there was tension,” she said.

“People would ask some pretty awful questions like… ‘how the hell can you be a journalist if you can’t see?’.”

Others would say their workplace wouldn’t be safe for her, and rejections would come in thick and fast. But the ABC was different. “They asked all the questions they would ask any other candidate, questions around what you needed to do your job.”

Nas started at the ABC as a cadet in 2011, ventured into regional reporting then went on to feature heavily on Triple J before being appointed disability affairs reporter.

How Nas does her job every day: JAWS screen reader: Nas uses the popular screen reader software both on her desktop computer in the office and on a laptop when on an external job.

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Tactile buttons in the studio: Nas can work her way around the editing suite at the ABC with the help of a few tactile buttons. The raised bumps and stickers give her a guide to know where she is situated across the suite.

O&M instructor around the office: The ABC is a multi-storey building.

An orientation and mobility instructor helped map out the office with Nas to make sure she could navigate around it safely.

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So everyone can thrive

We want to help every Australian build a connected future, including those who have difficulty using a standard home phone.

Visit telstra.com/disability, or call our Hotline 1800 068 424 (Voice), 133 677 (TTY).

ilit ab

Telstra’s Disability Equipment Program offers a range of solutions to support customers who are older or have a disability.

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