Link Magazine June-July 2023

ANY AGE. ANY PLACE. SIMPLY HELPING YOU.

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From the Editor

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C over Story – Taking on a car rally with a T10 spinal cord injury was a test of determination for Chris Astill and partner Jasmine Dingley

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M eet Queensland artist Starr and her magical world of Alice in Wonderland

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Assistive Technology

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ATSA Feature and Perth Expo Guide

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G et Moving: Mobility

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B en and Laura Robinson share their story on love and marriage

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P owerchair Soccer is a hole new ball game for Rebecca Evans

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J ason Wright on track for a life well-earned

Publisher

Simon Cooper

Editor

Kymberly Martin kymberly@intermedia.com.au

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

Link takes a few road trips of sorts in this issue. It begins with our cover story on the Shitbox Rally about two intrepid travelers…Chris Astill and Jasmine Dingley who signed up for a 3500k drive across four states to raise funds for the Cancer Council. A T10 spinal cord injury was no deterrent for Chris and the rally raised $2 million for the council.

I went to Queensland to interview Starr…a local artist who paints with panache. Read how a late diagnosis of autism has influenced her art and her life. Her story begins on page 16.

There is more. Link travelled to Melbourne to catch up with Ben and Laura Robinson who met at Ability Works in 2004 and recently celebrated 12 years of marriage. Read their account of married life on page 100.

There is no doubt Covid has been disruptive for many Australians, keeping us at home and isolated from things we took for granted. But we are now reclaiming our lives and what is a better way to do that than to visit the ATSA Expos. Link publishes a complete program guide in this issue for the Perth Expo, the biggest disability assistive technology event in town with a phalanx of new products on show.

Enjoy our biggest issue ever.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2023

• Daily Living products & Services

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• Home Modification & Specialist Disability Accommodation

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Publication date: 31 July 2023

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Rallying to a cause

From the start...

Chris Astill and Jasmine Dingley are new to the world of disability. A few weeks after saying yes to the Shitbox Summer Rally 2023, Astill suffered a T10 complete spinal cord injury in a paragliding accident.

“As we came up for air and began to learn what this injury and diagnosis meant for us, the rally became a light peering out of the gloom,” Dingley told Kymberly Martin. “A return to the driving program gave a fast-track

to Chris’ licensing process. Total Ability to convert the car. Access Adventures working on skills and equipment and Jax Tyres and Auto Artarmon, getting the car ready without a second thought. Mel Harrison, who was the first person in a wheelchair to participate in the rally spent hours with us talking about her experiences.”

The Shitbox Rally is just under a 3500k drive (not including the ferry to Tasmania) through rural Australia from Rockhampton in Queensland to Hobart, in a car worth less than

$1,500 for an event that is the biggest fundraiser for the Cancer Council. “When Chris and I signed up, it was because, like most, we had been touched by the devastating impact of cancer. It always struck me as the perfect metaphor. Like a long drive in a shitbox car, it’s unfathomably hard to face cancer on your own,” she said, with both taking turns driving.

The Shitbox Rally had become more to the couple than it was when they originally signed up. It was a goal, a light in a world that at the time

was feeling constantly uncertain and plagued with fears of not making it. “It was a way to prove to ourselves that life doesn’t have to stop when you or someone you love suffers a spinal cord injury, that you can still do what you love, can still set out on that long drive with all of its anticipation and uncertainty,” she said.

“There were things that came along more regularly than we would have liked on this adventure that we had not thought about or faced before and had to deal with. It tests your mental determination, your strength, your adaptability and your relationships. But we also realised that people are amazingly generous, supportive and excited to see you succeed once you start that journey.”

...To the finish

Rally Reflections by Chris Astill “Completing a Shitbox Rally is, at is essence, trying to push a failing machine through a difficult task. Two failing machines if you count your body and that’s before you add a wheelchair and all that comes with it into the mix. It’s hard for anybody. The long days driving, the lack of sleep, the heat, the people dynamics, the constant problem solving.

Add in figuring out how to do a 180degree transfer into a rural horse racing-track toilet stall; last minute runs before the flight to pick up a Roho cushion to manage long days sitting; pushing a manual chair 300 metres across a rutted field to get dinner after 10 hours in the car; or doing floor to chair transfers to get out of your tent just after waking up each morning, and you have seven days which lived up to ‘big goal’ status.

Despite all of that, when asked on the final day ‘would you do another one?’, the answer, without having to pause to think, was ‘we’re already looking for our next shitbox’.

Making things work is the theme of the rally and you are never alone in that. From the very first moment of getting out of the car at the pre-rally briefing,

when the front wheel failed on my chair and the ‘not a V8’ team was there with an Allen wrench before I could even look around for help, you realise this is an amazing community. The rally was an extension of the support we had experienced in the lead-in, people rallied (pun intended) around. No challenge, whether it was car related or not, was faced without support.

Add in the incredible rawness of people coming together to remember and honour those they have lost to cancer, the sense of pride to collectively raise over $2 million for Cancer Council research, the spectacular roads and driving, the hospitality of Australian rural towns, how much fun it is, the friendships you make when you are all completing an adventure, not a race, for something bigger than yourself together – you have something that is very special. For those that want to do it and haven’t it will be difficult. For most people, the fundraising is the hard part. For me, it was a physical challenge which pushed me every day from well before the rally began. Practice transfers, get strong, make sure you can get down and up a few stairs and get equipped for rough terrain (my wheelchair had off-road wheels and tyres and an RGK front wheel which worked great).

It will be hard, but to me, for all the reasons above, it was worth it.”

The next Shitbox Rally is from October13-21

More info here: https://www.shitboxrally. com.au/the-event/ or https://www. shitboxrally.com.au/teams/

T he rally had dress up days, it was ‘Pirate Day’ embarking on the Spirit of Tasmania across from Geelong to Devonport.

After Sales Care

Maintaining Assistive Technology to sustain quality

An important factor when choosing your AT provider is how well they support you with any after sales care you need. Astris PME has you covered!

One of our key focuses at Astris PME is our ongoing commitment to providing the highest level of service and support to therapists, equipment users and their families. To ensure better after-sales support for our clients, we’ve added a few new key members to our Service Department, including four mobile service technicians servicing Greater Sydney and surrounds. In addition, we have a service tech in each of our Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra and Young branches.

Our fleet of mobile workshops can come to your home, school, hospital or clinic, and provide on-site repairs, maintenance, and adjustments. For your peace of mind, we also offer Programmed Maintenance Packages to many locations. This will help safeguard and extend the life of your equipment and help you stay mobile.

At Astris PME, after sales care is a fundamental part of the service we provide because it can make a significant difference to the well-being of all people with a disability. We are here for you!

Listening to the voices of children, including children with disabilities in research

By Olivia Karaolis

“Nothing About Us Without Us

“has become synonymous with disability rights, the call by individuals with disabilities to be heard in matters that concern them and for full and equal access to all aspects of society.

It is a call that I have paid attention to in my work as a teacher and an early childhood interventionist and used it to guide my practice.

As a researcher, seeking to understand a phenomenon, or to search for the many possible answers to a research question, I have attempted to listen to the voices of all the participants. In my area, this is usually children and in particular children with disabilities.

As with individuals with disabilities, children with a disability have rights to be heard, rights that are protected by laws such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Participatory Research with children is one way to support children to express their thoughts about a range of issues, from designing new spaces on a playground, experiences as patients in hospital and as students in a range of school contexts.

While this shift in thinking about the contribution children can make to research is becoming increasingly recognised, too often children and especially children with disabilities are excluded, considered more as sources of data, they are studied and not part of the study process. While I agree there are many reasons for the limited participation of children

with disabilities in research, I think the greatest barrier may be an over reliance on spoken words.

Surveys, interviews and focus groups all depend on the spoken and written word. This practice limits the participation of children with communicative differences, from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, or whose spoken language is emerging. For these children other tools exist that provide children with numerous avenues to share what they know and tell us what we don’t know.

Examples of these include creative visual methods such as drawing. Children’s pictures have been used to understand the lived experience of children living on the street in Uganda (Biggeri & Anich, 2009) or in story boards to learn about the ways children managed their emotions (Chung & Gerber, 2010). Digital photography has been used by children to share their sense of wellbeing (Gabhainn & Sixsmith, 2006) and video was used as a powerful way for children living in 16 countries to express their “rights” to the United Nations (Third et al., 2014).

The studies above share a common message, that children are valued and important to the researcher and can communicate authentically through non-verbal and in some instances, creative ways. The ability of the researcher to read to gestures and actions of children, to be comfortable with their silences and build the relationships, so central to qualitative research by not placing verbal demands or expectations on children and instead to allow them to

communicate with us in the language of their choice, be it one without words. If we are truly curious about the experience of children, particularly children with a disability, our research practices must adjust.

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

Expo with a focus on choice

The My Future, My Choice Gold Coast Disability Expo, brought to you by Impact Institute, is an event that aims to empower and inspire individuals living with disabilities, their family members and caregivers. With a focus on choice, the expo brings together over 150 providers who will showcase cutting-edge equipment, assistive technology, mobility aids, medical and health services, long-term care options, and various financial, travel, lifestyle, and sports options for people of all abilities.

O ver two days, attendees will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights from speakers representing government and advocacy organisations. These speakers will cover a wide range of disability-related topics, including financial and legal aid, equipment and aids, social and leisure options, transport, allied health and support services. This will provide attendees with valuable information and resources to help them make

informed choices and navigate the complexities of living with a disability.

In addition to the informative sessions, the expo also offers allages entertainment, live stage performances, fully catered cafes and ample seating for socialising and chatting about the exhibitions, talks or entertainment. This creates a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other.

T he My Future, My Choice Gold Coast Disability Expo is a comprehensive event that caters to the diverse needs and interests of individuals with disabilities and their support networks. It provides an opportunity to explore the latest innovations and services in the disability sector, learn from experts in the field, and connect with a community of like-minded individuals.

The Expo will be held from June 16-17 at the Gold Coast Convention Centre.

ImpactInstitute is excited to be bringing you our next season of the My Future, My Choice disability expos occurring in key locations along the eastern seaboard of Australia.

In 2023, the My Future, My Choice expos bring together disability product and service providers to ignite imaginations and equip attendees for a better future.

Our next Expo of the year will be the Gold Coast Disability Expo 16 & 17 of June 2023, 9am – 3pm at the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre.

MyLifeChoices Disability Expo ...celebrating 10 years

activities going on around the event that promote diversity and inclusion. Now more than ever interacting faceto-face with customers is one of the most effective ways to do business.

The DAL Expo is widely promoted within South Australia, through traditional social media, digital, print, radio and TV advertising campaigns. The Catalyst Foundation is well known in South Australia as a key community service information provider and the event will be promoted through their extensive sector and community connections.

Sponsorship opportunities at the networking breakfast

The Catalyst Foundation's annual #MyLifeChoices Disability, Ageing & Lifestyle Expo (DAL Expo) is an iconic South Australian event. Now in its 10th year, it is the largest disability and ageing expo in South Australia, and it is back in 2023.

The 2022 DAL Expo was a huge success, with 230 exhibitors and over 4700 visitors, it was held in the biggest pavilion at Wayville Showgrounds over two big days. The event's success was measured from the visitor surveys which showed a 99.5 per cent visitor approval rating.

The 2023 DAL Expo will again provide South Australians with a two-day event, on October 13 and 14 at the Jubilee Pavilion, Wayville Showgrounds and it is free to attend.

This year, visitors to the DAL Expo will see a variety of exhibitors, with exciting and engaging activation zones,

a line-up of talented local performers on the ‘DanceAbility’ stage, exhibitor networking opportunities, family friendly activities and a variety of catering options.

DAL Expo ambassador, South Australian singer Rachael Leahcar, who charmed the audience in 2022, will again be a part of the excitement at this year’s event.

...an event that promotes diversity and inclusion

The expo provides the perfect venue for over 200 exhibitors to showcase lifestyle solutions to people within the ageing community, those living with a disability, their carers, support workers, family, friends and those that work within allied services. The objective of the event is for visitors to come away with options and solutions to enhance their day-to-day life and enjoy the

If you are a business or service provider to the disability and ageing sector, there's never been a better time to get involved. With exhibitor space being highly sought after, investing in sponsorship at a two-day event that reaches your target market, is well worth considering. The DAL Expo project team will work with you to prepare a sponsorship opportunity that will achieve your objectives, work within your budget and help you achieve your return on the investment.

Officially launching the DAL Expo, the Exhibitors Networking Breakfast is attended by representatives of every exhibitor at the Expo. With close to 400 attending this event, it is the biggest gathering of disability and ageing sector providers in SA. The perfect opportunity to relax, enjoy a full breakfast, listen to engaging keynote speakers and network before the big event commences.

Contact the DAL Expo office to book your exhibition space and discuss sponsorship opportunities.

Phone: (08) 8168 8702 or email: expo@catalystfoundation.com.au or www.dalexpo.com.au

A Starr is reborn

For nearly two decades Starr has had her art featured internationally and her work has been displayed in the foyer of La Nouvelle Eve in Paris. Her new Can Can series is currently on permanent display in Paris and the new, New York Styles Series in New York.

Starr was diagnosed as a child with dyslexia which later became known as ADHD. Like many women, her autism (ASD) was not confirmed until much later in her life, at 40.

However, she said dealing with the past can be complex. “There is a great deal of power in knowing who you are, which is why early diagnosis is vital. I am lucky to be where I am today but wish I had known earlier about who I was, and I would have managed many parts of my life much better. It’s the simple things in life that can make you.”

Reflecting on living with autism, she believes it is not about attending a class or therapy, but finding what motivates you and takes you from a sad place.

“It is inspirational knowing what I have is a gift and what I am as a person. Yes, there are bad sides to overcome at times and these can be sweet and sour, but you cannot have one without the other.”

For those with autism she had a message to convey. “What you have been given is a gift that makes you unique and a plus that can be harnessed to keep you on course, especially through your 20’s! Just keep trying and don’t give up.”

A rising star

Her fluency in drawing was evident from the age of five, but “school days

were horrible with zero out of 20 for everything except art” and she had to deal with being bullied.

Art was not without its complications, and her marks were “horrendous… I was ‘failed’ in my first year at art college and not given the opportunity to major in painting and that broke my heart.” Starr believes her talent and passion for art went unrecognised, however she was able to move into another area, majoring in media when the college programs switched to the university, enabling her to apply for a fine arts degree. “That was all I ever wanted and after four years I finally got my degree from the Queensland College of Art”.

Starr feels she never fitted in. “There were other students like me who found university difficult and were so talented

Artist Starr spoke to Kymberly Martin at her new atelier in the heritage district of Ipswich, Queensland.

but dropped out. It was sad to see. I consider my biggest achievement was not that I got into university, but that I have survived as a fulltime artist all these years. Another art student, Michael Zavros graduated at the same time and, like me, is still painting.”

Her work has been exhibited in many Australian galleries including Moulton Galleries in Mosman, Sydney, Red Hill in Brisbane, and Cairns. The Red Hill gallery in Brisbane and Framed Gallery in Darwin were the first to show her work 25 years ago, following her graduation.

A display at La Nouvelle Eve in Paris depicts her painting of Emily, the lead dancer at the club who has posed for her many times in Australia. The venue will be familiar to Netflix viewers watching the series Emily in Paris

Among her well-known commissions are Mötley Crüe musician Tommy Lee which is in his personal collection and singer and songwriter Angry Anderson, that was submitted for the Archibald Prize. She has also done commissioned works for books, CDs and wine labels.

Starr has painted album covers for Tracii Guns, singer of the US band ‘L.A. Guns’ but her dream person to paint would be Johnny Depp, in his role as the ‘Mad Hatter’.

And it is the magical world of Alice in Wonderland that reflects her whimsical painting style, which began 15 years ago.

“Even though I loved Alice when I was

younger, I could not have portrayed her in my paintings other than as an adult. I could not relate to her as a child from an artists’ perspective.

“About this time US director Tim Burton made a film about Alice in Wonderland as an adult which convinced me to embrace her in my art works and the Alice series will continue for the rest of my life. To paint my Alice in fine art you paint with imagination not an illustration.”

So, we see Alice in a Back to the Future pose, with an iPhone. “There is a thought process behind it, she is not your standard Alice, she is my character set in time with the Apple Watch and iPhone.”

Another shows Alice during the pandemic wearing a mask, with another reflection of the time from the Twilight Saga. One of her most recent works is Saving the Barrier Reef.

“I paint my Alice series with real people.”

She paints in other mediums including water colour acrylic, oils, pastels on canvas, ceramics and pottery. Starr studied floristry which she said was necessary for still life. “I also attempted photography but was hopeless at it!”

Promotion is via Facebook and Instagram and regular group and solo exhibitions in Australia. However, this year she is concentrating on the overseas market which to date has been financially successful, although “I am not everyone’s cup of tea.”

“I have always painted like this and believe I was born to paint like this. As a child I started drawing with a Nikko pen for the strong fine point outline and I love colour. The person who identified my diagnosis said colour is a giveaway sign for autism.

Her escape hatch is to watch DVDs and streaming services. “I subscribe to everything, and this is one of the few tricks I have if am feeling upset about my situation.”

She recently ventured out of her comfort zone and took up horse riding which initially she found confronting as “all my hidden disabilities spiked”. But she persisted “because I desperately wanted to ride, despite taking trail rides and hating it”. Eventually she found the right horse and suddenly it was perfect. “I will go down to the paddock and cuddle my horse or watch a DVD. Knowing what makes you cope and being able to focus on something different is my answer.

“I adore animals. I have birds, including a loud cockatoo, dogs, and occasionally take care of possums and of course my horse. Put all these quirks together and that is my Zen.”

She donates paintings to local charities, mostly animal charities and schools, has taken home several art awards along with numerous submissions to the Archibald Prize, but so far has been denied a hanging in the exhibition, “not for lack of trying”!

“Quite honestly, I am so busy with exhibitions and commissions. I am a selling artist. My exhibitions are always a sell-out and after 30 years that is the greatest award for me.

“Autism is in my genetic code and already showing itself in future generations in my family, but I have wonderful family support and a great manager who works in special education.

“I attribute what I am today to my husband who I married in my late 40s. I have finally reached a level of tranquility in my life by tearing down a few barriers along the way!”

For Revolutionary Hand Protection: GloveOn COATS

Oats as a beauty ingredient dates back to ancient times, with the Greeks and Romans using ”oat baths” to soothe skin ailments. A fascinating fact only made more fascinating by oats still being used today in modern medicine. It’s a time-tested product which has a myriad of benefits, including in hand hygiene and skin health.

Hands are your most important tools and in healthcare, wearing gloves is a necessity. But, wearing traditional gloves often causes dryness, itchiness, and irritation. This is where the power of ancient oats comes into play with Colloidal Oatmeal System (COATS).

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10 tips to make caring easier for you

themselves. Find out more at carergateway.gov.au/home

7. Get help around the home

If your care role leaves you less time to do jobs around the house, you might need extra help at home. There are many services that can help you, from providing meals to cleaning and home repairs. Find out more at carergateway.gov.au/home

8. Ever considered legal arrangements?

If you care for someone with a disability, it’s important to make sure you look after yourself as well. Here are 10 tips to help remove some of the pressure:

1. Are you eligible for payments?

As a carer you may be eligible for carer payments. Visit servicesaustralia.gov.au/carerpayment for more information. The person you care for may also be able to get a Disability Support Pension. Find out at servicesaustralia.gov.au/disabilitysupport-pension

2. Make an emergency care plan

An emergency care plan has all the information about the person you care for in one place. It makes it easy for someone to take over from you in a hurry, or if you need to talk with a health care professional. Find out how to create one at carergateway.gov.au/planning

3. Learn how to lift and move people safely

If you need to help move around the person you care for, it’s important to learn how to do this properly to prevent injuries to yourself, or the

other person. Find out more at carergateway.gov.au/home

4. Learn how to deal with challenging behaviours

Some people with disability can have challenging behaviours, such as aggression or violence. Find out how to prevent or manage these behaviours at carergateway.gov. au/managing-health-behaviour

5. Managing incontinence

Some people with disability are incontinent, meaning they can’t hold in urine or faeces. Learn how to manage incontinence at carergateway.gov.au/ managing-health-behaviour plus get additional support buying incontinence products at servicesaustralia.gov.au/ continence-aids-payment-scheme

6. Getting equipment or making home changes

You can get a wide range of equipment to help with moving, communicating with or looking after the person you care for. You can even make modifications to your home to help them move around and do things for

Carers can have different legal powers and responsibilities, depending on your role and the person you care for. For instance, you may need to appoint a guardian or Power of Attorney for the person you care for. Find out more at carergateway.gov.au/ legal-matters

9. How best to work with health services

If you care for a person with disability, you will probably be working with a range of different health professionals. To find out how to best talk to them and plan for appointments, visit carergateway.gov.au/workinghealth-services

10. Need some respite care?

Respite care is when someone else looks after the person you care for while you have a break. If you need time to do everyday activities, deal with stress or look after yourself, visit carergateway.gov.au/what-respite

You may care for someone by yourself, but you're not alone - it's OK to ask for support. Visit: carergateway.gov.au or call: 1800 422 737

Where carers can find support

If you care for someone with a disability, it’s important to look after yourself as well.

Carer Gateway delivers free and services to thousands of carers just like you, such as emergency respite, tailored packages, peer support and skills courses.

Focus on Ability Short film Festival Ethiopia

For the 15th consecutive year NOVA Employment presents the Focus on Ability Short Film Festival (FOA). This festival asks filmmakers to “Focus on the Ability” of people with a disability and tell a story on film for the world to view. Originating in Sydney, the festival is now a worldwide extravaganza reaching all pockets of the globe, including now an Ethiopian chapter.

FOA Ethiopia's second edition showcased the creative talents of Ethiopians with disabilities and broke down stigmas. The festival aims to empower the disability community by highlighting their capabilities and achievements. Through the medium of film, this event seeks to promote a culture of inclusion in Ethiopia.

Over 3000 people attended the event in Addis Ababa, which included exhibitions, bazaars, an award ceremony, and film screenings. Most of the attendees were young people, people with disability,

artists, NGOs, government officials, private companies and families.

Mikias Mulugeta is the director of Focus on Ability Ethiopia. “The second annual Focus on Ability short film festival Ethiopia was a big success. It was an opportunity to experience the progress and challenges of people living with disabilities in Ethiopia,” he said.

“Ethiopia is one of the countries that have signed the United Nations Convention of Persons with Disabilities, yet persons living with disabilities still face neglect and discrimination.

“However, there are also people with disabilities who have been successful despite the difficult journey they have to endure. Changing the social perspective of points, challenges and successes of people with disabilities is the main goal of this film festival,” Mulugeta said.

The red carpet section is a special part

of the event where honourees and elite celebrities walk the red carpet as they arrive. The award show brought together a diverse array of individuals to celebrate achievements in disability awareness and advocacy.

The exhibition consisted of 53 complimentary booths given to entrepreneurs with disabilities, civil society organisations, non-profits and social enterprises working for persons living with disability.

The FOA exhibition is important for raising awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by this community. They can also provide opportunities for these individuals to highlight their talents and skills, as well as to connect with potential employers and customers.

What is next for the International Focus on Ability Film Festival? Focus on Ability Film Festival Africa. Stay tuned. www.focusonability.com.au

Maturity and grace under pressure

Finding an inclusive employer who values Mdad's skills and experience has given the former job seeker the opportunity he deserves.

The Bangladesh-born father-of-one is highly valued for his calm and professional approach with customers, and the warmth and positivity he brings to his team. But in 2021, he was out of work despite having an impressive resume and education.

“I speak seven languages including Japanese, Thai, Bengali, Hindu, Urdu and English,” he said. “Recruiters said I had lots of skill and talent and gave me lots of hope and confidence, but the problem was, I was never sent for interviews.”

Mdad had previously owned and operated a successful grocery market in Sydney’s West that employed 15 people. After a traumatic armed hold-up in 2016, Mdad was unable to return to work and the business was forced to close. Unwilling to give up, he continued to try new approaches, including changing his Disability Employment Services provider to

MatchWorks and attending a Downer information session organised by MatchWorks employer engagement partner, Parineeta Ubhiryane.

“We hosted the information session so that suitable job seekers could learn about the organisation and ask questions in an informal group setting,” Parineeta said. "These sessions also gave recruiters a different way to meet potential candidates and get to know them.”

Downers’ head of customer contact, Mattie Minas said they needed mature and dependable candidates to fill the roles.

“Reliability in the contact centre industry can be challenging,” she said. “I knew that Mdad would be reliable, come to work and be 100 per cent committed to giving it his best every day. The thing that stood out in the session was his desire to be back in the workforce and be given an opportunity.”

After the positive meeting, Mdad moved forward to interview successfully and became one of two MatchWorks

job seekers to secure a contact centre role. He commenced work in September 2022, assisting tenants and tradespeople as part of part of Downer’s social housing maintenance contract in NSW. Team leader, Danielle Skelly values Mdad’s composure on the phone. His Bangladesh-inspired cooking and natural networking skills to connect with colleagues also makes him an asset to the team.

“It’s maturity, we are dealing with tenants, and he has that life experience. He does not take things personally, he works with the customer to resolve the issue,” she said. “He gets other teams involved and is a real team player, determined to feed the masses and ensures no one misses out.”

Mdad credits Downer and its team leaders for investing additional time in his training, helping him to overcome some initial obstacles and settle in successfully. He also appreciates the stability that his job brings and being able to utilise his strengths at work.

“I like to talk to people,” he said. “To get to know and help people, that is my end game.”

Disaster preparedness for all: lessons learned from the Northern Rivers floods

By Sathsara Radaliyogoda

In early 2022 the floods in Northern Rivers New South Wales rocked a community that had just rebuilt itself from the flood disaster of 2017.

With more than 20,000 people severely impacted, people with disabilities are continuing to suffer from the repercussions of one of Australia’s largest natural disasters.

Over a year later, the lack of accessible housing, funding, and support for carers and advocates has resulted in the displacement of many, including those with disabilities.

Donna Marsh, from SCIA’s Northern Rivers team, believes there is a collective trauma that is still clinging to the community in the aftermath.

“I think every single person that lived here has had trauma. There's a lot of people that will never be the same.”

For many people with disabilities, their routines have been disrupted.

The places they once frequented on a schedule have been washed away. Additionally, the community centre that provided a safe space for support workers and people with disabilities is also no longer operational.

“There's layering on top of the actual trauma from the flood, with a lack of things to do afterwards, because a lot of the things just didn't come back. Even now, in half the town the shops are shut,” Marsh said.

A University of Sydney study explored the ‘systemic neglect’ after the 2017 floods, that highlighted higher levels of mental health illnesses like PTSD following traumatic natural disaster events.

In additional to trauma, accessibility is one of the primary problems facing people with disabilities who have experienced a natural disaster. While it is important to prepare in the case of these types of emergencies, most shelters do not have the necessary foundation for being accessible.

A Southern Cross University survey showed that as of February 2023, 52 per cent of victims are continuing to live in their flooded homes and 18 per cent are living in temporary insecure housing like tents.

Despite the area’s reputation for being susceptible to flooding, there were limited NSW SES members on duty during the bulk of the flooding, causing a lack of supportive resources for the community.

Hearing the experiences of others, Marsh said that “the government wasn't prepared, the people weren't prepared”.

”People won't stay in their houses next time and they will go. But where do they go?”

Read the full article, and other articles about emergency preparedness for people with disabilities on SCIA’s Resource Hub at: https://scia.org.au/resource-hub/

Adapting your wheelchair to your personality

You're a unique individual. Your wheelchair should be, too. Survey results exploring the reason for non-use among wheelchair users identified the aesthetic appeal of the equipment as a reason end users abandon their wheelchairs much earlier then the life expectancy of the equipment.

At Linds, we are all about the customisation. This is our specialty, forte, strength and we understand the importance of finding the right chair for you or your client.

Motion Composites have released nine NEW colours to their folding wheelchair range; 19 colours are now available to paint the Apex C and Veloce Carbon frames; with seven NEW colours on the Newton air grip handrims. Endless colour combinations with the option to Mix and Match your wheelchair frame, handrims and colour accents.

When it comes to chairs, why should you have to settle for what's out of the box? Maybe you're into bold colours and patterns. Maybe you want something sleek and minimalist. Whatever your style is, we've got the perfect chair for

who you, are ensuring the features maximise your mobility goals. Motion Composites offer a wide selection of wheelchair handrims to meet the end user’s unique needs and individual preferences. That said, we would like to introduce their newest ergonomic handrim options: Omobic handrimsNOVA H, TOUR H, and OPTIMUM H.

The NOVA H handrims are ergonomically designed with an ovular shape suitable to fit into the curvatures of the palm. They are made of black hard anodized aluminium and have a high friction silicone strip running down the centre of the rim for added gripping benefits. The NOVA H handrims are suitable for individuals who require a high friction handrim with an ergonomic shape to enable propulsion efficiency due to limited hand function, decreased grip/hand strength, decreased range of motion, or decreased sensation.

The TOUR H handrims are ergonomically designed with an ovular shape suitable to fit into the curvatures of the palm. They are made of black hard anodized aluminium and have a high friction silicone strip running

are suitable for individuals who require a high friction handrim with a larger surface area and ergonomic shape to enable propulsion efficiency due to limited hand function, decreased grip/hand strength, decreased range of motion, or decreased sensation.

The OPTIMUM H handrims are ergonomically designed with a heart shape suitable to fit into the curvatures of the palm. They are made of black hard anodized aluminium and have an indented groove running down the centre of the rim for optimal thumb positioning. The OPTIMUM H handrims are suitable for individuals who require a handrim with an ergonomic shape to enable propulsion efficiency due to limited hand function, decreased hand strength, and hand/wrist pain.

At Linds, we offer an extensive range of customised solutions tailored to meet everyone’s needs. We pride ourselves on providing professional service and outstanding engineering knowledge in our workshop, ensuring you get the best out of your order.

Visit us at the upcoming ATSA Stand #184 in Perth to explore what’s new in

Choosing the right personal alarm for your needs

It is worth noting autodial alarms do not deliver specific event information or medical background to contacts or emergency services. Also, if a contact’s voicemail picks up the call, the autodial alarm could be delayed in calling the next contact as it waits for the voicemail to disconnect. When time is of the essence, the autodial process can become lengthy as you wait for someone to respond.

Are autodial alarms a genuine alternative to monitored services?

When it comes to personal alarms in Australia, there are a number of products that can help you feel safer, more independent and provide emergency assistance when you need it. But not all options are created equal and sometimes the true difference doesn’t become clear until a medical emergency occurs, and you need to push that button.

To help you make an informed choice, we compare the two main personal alarm options: 24/7 monitored services – guaranteed to be answered by trained professionals such as MePACS versus auto diallers – devices that can call a list of pre-selected contacts when triggered.

Monitored Alarms

A monitored personal alarm is a small wearable device that when activated in a medical emergency connects to a 24/7 monitored call centre. An example is the MePACS monitored alarm, which provides a rapid response service in a medical emergency. The team of trained professionals will answer

within 2 minutes (usually less), ask the right questions to assess what help is required, and then coordinate that help for you: be it an ambulance or the help of one of your nominated contacts. The monitoring team can also communicate any relevant medical information to emergency services to enable them to quickly triage and prioritise your care.

There’s a range of monitored alarms available to suit your lifestyle and abilities, with accessories designed to support ease of use, so you have the freedom of choice for a lightweight alarm to wear at home or out and about.

Non-monitored Alarms

An autodial alarm, also known as a non-monitored alarm, is a wearable device that when activated, will automatically call each person listed for a limited number of rings before moving on to the next. It may also send a generic text to your contacts stating that you need help. You may be able to set this list up to have emergency services as well as family and friends as your contacts.

In short, no. An autodial medical alert device may appear less expensive initially, but will it actually deliver the care or peace of mind to protect your wellbeing and safety? If calls go unanswered for too long, your contact doesn’t know what to do in an emergency or you don’t have enough contacts willing to be on your list, then it becomes a false economy.

Autodial alarms are not recommended by CHOICE or emergency services because they cannot guarantee to deliver what they promise.

By comparison, monitored alarms such as MePACS, provide a guaranteed rapid response by a trained professional and make a genuine difference for your health and safety. Simple, effective and reliable.

Assistive technology and disability rights

By Natalie Wade

Technology has become a significant part of all of our lives. Most people in Australia own a smart phone, are connected to the internet, and interact with technology every day for essential tasks like banking and communication. Barriers to connecting to the internet, including those facing people in rural and remote areas present different issues to those raised in this article but are of equal importance.

For people with disability, the infiltration of technology into their lives can mean much more than convenience or inevitability and can be essential to independence and connectedness. The role of assistive technology in the lives of some people with disability can be the difference between being able

to communicate, live independently or being able to get out into the community. AT is, undoubtedly, a key enabler to the realisation of human rights for people with disabilities.

But AT can present two key questions, what do you need and how can you access it?

ChatGPT stirs debate for students with disability

By Nicholas Kapirnas*

The newest technology to become available to students and staff throughout universities in Australia and world-wide, has stirred quite a lot of debate in the world of academia. But it also brings into question a broader discussion on accessibility in higher education and is an important topic that students with disability are advocating for.

ChatGPT was launched in November of 2022 by OpenAI, based in San Francisco, and has now become a multibillion-dollar investment for Microsoft. Driven by artificial intelligence, it is a natural language tool that allows users to have interactions that are more human-like, with a chatbot. Currently free, the application can do such tasks as composing emails, creating computer code and answering questions.

In the world of academia this has been used by staff and students alike. Professors have been utilising ChatGPT for class activities and lesson plans, and students have been using it as a research tool for assignments, essays and research papers. They have been able to do this by asking the application to create them.

Determining what you need can be simple. People with disability are experts in their life and knowing they need a simple, low-cost piece of AT may require no further input. A quick internet search can find the product and it can be purchased like any other item. But where a person has a problem to be solved (for example, “I want to be able to …”), an occupational therapist will be wellplaced to provide an assessment and recommend what would solve the problem.

Accessing AT may rely on NDIS funding, be self-funded or funded by a local charity. Exploring funding options to purchase AT is important. For people with disability, it is important to realise their fundamental human rights such as access to independent living, participation in the community and being safe at home. Exploring the role of AT is an important step to realising those human rights.

Natalie Wade: Equality Lawyers founder and director. 08 7084 1190. natalie@equalitylawyers.com.au

As such, universities are starting to crack down on this AI, with concerns over the authenticity of students work. Students and educators with disability, however, believe that the potential for accessibility should not be overlooked. Many students use AI and technology for converting onscreen text to speech, amongst many other adjustments.

Disability advocates believe there is tremendous potential and that universities should look at different approaches. Students with disability are entitled under Australian state and federal law to “reasonable adjustments” in the classroom. Advocates encourage academia not to dismiss new technology, as it can be a revolutionary tool. They urge universities to embrace the technology.

For more information about what ChatGPT and AI mean for higher education for students with disability, refer to the Japan Times article on Australian universities cracking down on ChatGPT.

*This article first appeared in Centre for Accessibility Australia.

Reporting burden reduces financial viability and care delivery

In most Australian states and territories chemical restraint forms the largest segment of unauthorised restrictive practices (URPs) reported to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.

In any given jurisdiction 25-70 per cent of reported URPs are associated with chemical restraint.

T he ability to link Behaviour Support Plans (BSPs) to Restrictive Practices in a timely manner is a significant contributor to this burden, according to Medi-Map CEO Greg Garratt.

“The requirement to link practitioner, prescriber, person centred supportworker (PCSW), participant and paper chart is difficult,” he said. “The availability of prescribers to review and authorise changes following specialist visits, or hospital admissions is limited.

Ensuring indications reconcile with BSPs timely fashion is complex due to the ‘paper’ moving through the system.”

Electronic Medication Management Systems (EMMs) have been used in the Aged Care sector for more than a decade. EMMs would allow the replacement of paper-based recording, so PCSWs can digitally record medicine administration and its associated events.

T his provides an organisation an easily accessible “real-time”. Digitally secure cloud based EMMs link the prescriber, the Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) practitioner, PCSWs and the participant in real time.

Something as simple as a missing or non-aligned medication indications, or as complex as wholesale changes in medication regimes, can now be identified and rectified in real time.

Medi-Map’s cloud based Electronic Medication Management system means your organisation:

• Reduces its reporting burden, by allowing automation of reporting

• Increases oversight of medication administration through real-time, centralised review

• Increases timeliness of response to queries, incidents, or exceptions

• Reduces the downtime associated with PCSW and PBS practitioners waiting for responses to queries

• Enables digitally secure communication between participants, and other stakeholders, improving the quality of care provided

• Supports participant choice by not mandating medicine supplies via partner organisations.

Australia assisting in Lebanon humanitarian programs

The Australian Government’s commitment to include and support people with disability in the Middle East is being led by disability officer with the World Food Programme (WFP) Tiziana Oliva who is working to create and accelerate change for persons with disabilities.

Oliva is developing a disability inclusion plan for WFP’s Country Office in Lebanon over the next three years, supported by Australia Assists, the Australian Government’s humanitarian civilian deployment program implemented by RedR Australia.

With the initial aim to respond to the Syrian refugee crisis in Lebanon, the WFP has been providing life-saving assistance to refugees in the country since 2012. Since then, WFP’s role has expanded, ensuring that both Lebanese and refugees impacted by various vulnerabilities have access to essential needs, including sufficient nutritious food throughout the year. Oliva recently visited food distribution points in the Tripoli District in the North Governorate to support staff and cooperating

partners to provide disability friendly and accessible services and liaise with the local Organisations of Persons with Disabilities. “WFP Lebanon also provides technical assistance and capacity strengthening support to the Government of Lebanon,” Oliva said.

Part of her work includes conducting an environmental scan, analysing barriers encountered by persons with disabilities, to improve accessibility to WFP’s assistance for both Lebanese nationals and refugees.

She said this role has been crucial to supporting and promoting change in several low and middle income countries. “It is fundamental that this continues, particularly in this time of crisis and economic instability caused by the effects of Covid.

“I am fortunate to have the opportunity to share my expertise and knowledge, gained at a global level, to input and foster change to support an agency such as the WFP and its significant operation in Lebanon,” she said.

‘Sensory Inclusive’ destination status for Phillip Island

Phillip Island is planning to become the first tourist town in Australia to become ‘sensory inclusive’ with dozens of businesses being trained in identifying sensory overload that will make shops, attractions and restaurants a safe space for people suffering from conditions like autism, stroke, dementia and PTSD.

The island’s Nature Parks became the first nature experience in Australia to be officially certified as sensory inclusive last year and is taking the initiative to businesses and tourism operators around Phillip Island.

Specialised training is already being provided with the aim to train 50 businesses with suggestions such as dimming shop lights, turning down music or interactive displays and avoiding loud noises like grinding coffee machines.

The Penguin Parade, Churchill Island, Antarctic Journey at the Nobbies and the Koala Conservation Reserve are the first tourist attractions in Australia to be certified as sensory inclusive.

To assist guests prepare for their visit, a range of social stories and sensory

features are available on the Nature Parks website: https://www.penguins. org.au/about/local-community/news/ sensory-inclusive/.

Tiziana Oliva with Rasha Sankari from the Forum for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Uncovering the pulse of the AT industry

The assistive technology (AT) industry has successfully established its presence and influence. A recent ATSA member survey emphasised this progress, as 85 per cent of respondents mentioned that they joined ATSA to continue to support the voice of the AT industry.

By joining ATSA they have been part of our engagement with the government to influence policy. Also, they are part of our ongoing conversation to the public about the importance of AT in improving quality of life.

Two decades ago, the government formed policies without consulting our industry. AT businesses had to bang on the government’s door to get a policy changed or improved. This made it harder for AT businesses to operate and serve the consumer.

ATSA’s roots come from the industry’s desire to have a seat at the government decision-making table. The results for the industry and consumers have been profound. Today, the government calls on us to get the industry’s input on shaping policy before making decisions.

Almost all survey respondents highlighted the continued importance to their businesses of ATSA’s government consultancy role. It’s crucial to them that the AT industry has a voice in the development of appropriate, workable legislation and policies.

Raising public awareness about the vital role assistive technology (AT) plays in enhancing the quality of life for

those who rely on it is also important to our members.

The ATSA Independent Living Expo provides the opportunity to talk and engage the public. By bringing a huge range of suppliers under one roof, the public has a chance to see all that the industry can do.

Meeting suppliers face-to-face also gives the public a chance to see how much difference it can make to talk to a knowledgeable person before making a purchase. AT is something that needs to be experienced firsthand to ensure the right item is selected, rather than relying on online picture catalogs for selection.

A majority of members, 91 per cent, found the ATSA Independent Living Expo to be important to their business, and 94 per cent of respondents said they attended the expo.

They listed the main benefits to their business as:

• Networking and promoting their brand and services

• Generating business leads

• General knowledge of what’s happening in the industry

• Demonstrating products.

Challenges to consider

As the world emerges from Covid our industry faces challenges brought on by high inflation, rising interest rates and supply chain issues. We asked members to identify their most pressing concerns, and they shared the following:

• Staffing issues, including the

recruitment, retention, and training of employees

• Freight and supply chain concerns, including the time and cost aspects of logistics

• Financial pressures, including managing profit margins and general business expenses.

To help navigate these difficulties, ATSA members have accessed valuable resources. According to our survey, participants highly value ATSA’s education offerings which included training sessions on topics such as finding and retaining staff.

Additionally, members said they benefit from access to a network of trusted advisors and suppliers with industry knowledge, as well as business mentoring services and market intelligence.

The customer-first philosophy of our members is what makes ATSA such a different kind of industry association. We give the industry a voice and our members a business edge with access to the services, tools and connections only a peak body can deliver.

Become an ATSA member and be part of a community committed to elevating the industry and its impact on people’s lives.

If you’d like to join us, you can find out more through our website. Or come along to one of our expos to see the care and enthusiasm of our members in action. Our members are so genuinely dedicated to the people they help every day. Go to: www.atsa.org.au

Intensive therapy centre offers the latest tech in a WA first

WA-based disability service provider, Therapy Focus, is set to open an intensive therapy centre offering access to state-of-the-art equipment and assistive technology, including a device that is the first of its kind in the state.

convenient location. People are also able to practice using devices at the centre while they wait for funding and delivery.

The interactive projection system displays motion responsive games and activities onto a wall

Known as ReFocus, the therapy centre is designed to support people with disability who require access to complex equipment for rehabilitation. Project lead and senior physiotherapist, Shannen Stanes said ReFocus will support people who are unable to access mainstream gyms.

“ReFocus provides a safe and controlled space where people can work on their skills in areas like mobility, communication and environmental control with consistent support from their therapist,” Stanes said.

“The centre accommodates short, intensive blocks of therapy suitable for people who haven’t seen success with ongoing therapy at home or in community environments. Evidence has shown that delivering therapy this way helps people develop the functional skills and confidence they need to eventually transition to communitybased therapy and rehabilitation.”

With funding support from Telethon and the Stan Perron Charitable Foundation, the centre has been

fitted out with gym-style equipment, including a reformer, cross trainer and a weight-bearing device called a LiteGait. It also offers access to communication devices and access technology, including switches, eyegaze, environmental controls and adaptive gaming.

ReFocus is also the only therapy centre in Western Australia to offer access to an immersive, multi-sensory device called a Magic Mirror. The interactive projection system displays motion responsive games and activities onto a wall.

“The Magic Mirror’s camera sensor detects 26 joints of the human body, and any number of these joints can be configured as controllers. This means, when a user moves part of their body, they can interact with objects displayed in the projection,” Stanes said.

By bringing together such a wide range of equipment and technology, ReFocus also hopes to reduce lengthy wait times for device trials and support trialling of a number of items in one

The benefits afforded by the centre extend beyond what is on offer for people with disability. ReFocus also enables flexibility in service delivery, increased efficiencies and learning opportunities for therapists.

“We’re proud to offer therapists access to evidence-based equipment and assistive technology they may not have the opportunity to use otherwise,” Stanes said.

“Not only are they able to have a greater impact when it comes to helping clients achieve their goals, they are also exposed to new and innovative technologies, and with that comes a world of learning and development opportunities.

“ReFocus is just one of the ways we’re working to transform the way therapy is delivered in WA.”

The ReFocus centre has been utilised by Therapy Focus customers and therapists since May 2023 and will open its doors to the public from June 2023. For more information or to make a referral, call: 1300 135 373 or email: refocus@therapyfocus.org.au.

ReFocus Therapy Centre offers access to state-of-the-art equipment and assistive technology designed to help people with disability achieve their goals.

Located in Bentley, the centre provides a safe and supported environment where people can develop the functional skills and confidence they need to transition to community-based rehabilitation.

Benefit from a range of equipment and technology all in one place, including specialised gym equipment, communication devices and universal access technology.

For more information visit 1300 135 373

Therapyfocus.org.au/refocus

TWIST and shout for power and possibilities

For those familiar with the song and dance, doing the twist will soon have another meaning.

APEX Mobility and international supplier Klaxon are in the final preparation stages to launch the revolutionary power assist device, the Twist. The long-awaited power assist device (PAD) promises multiple avenues to achieve optimal access and occupational engagement for manual wheelchair users.

Researchers have completed extensive studies in propulsion efficiency and shoulder health for manual wheelchair users who self-propel. A full-time user can propel up to 2500 – 3500 repetitions daily and preserving shoulder health to maintain independence is paramount. Sustaining a shoulder injury of any nature has significant potential to impact every aspect of daily life and level of independence. Consider being unable to lift your arms to wash your hair or put on a shirt, along with losing independent mobility.

Addressing the need to preserve shoulder health and function for

manual wheelchair users that selfpropel, clinicians and users work together to achieve efficiency in propelling with the slightest physical output for maximal distance. This is achieved through building an optimal system setup (through wheelchair frame, seating and weight distribution, for some examples), education and training on manual wheelchair skills and introducing a power assist device.

Up to now, we have had multiple PAD options that offer one type of setup, rear mount, hand rim activated, joystick control, or front mount with handlebar. Selecting the most appropriate one typically depends on which PAD meets most goals. This is where the Klaxon Twist will introduce the ability to offer multiple setups, opening up more possibilities, and optimise and maintain occupational engagement.

Rear mount power devices, especially ones like the Twist that tuck right under the frame, provide partial assistance and are an excellent option for indoor environments. The only limiting factor with these is that the front castors

remain loaded and unable to navigate over small lips and terrains that may be a little rough and bumpy; here is where front mount devices would be considered. The standout benefit of the Twist is the option to have both rear and front mount (handlebar or hands-free) on the device. This opens up access to multiple environments where one device can provide benefits in optimising occupation engagement and preserving the user's overall physical and mental well-being.

On a final note, funding bodies generally approve one PAD for a rider, and the need to get it right is life changing. Careful evaluations and discussions between clinicians and users will continue to identify the most appropriate assistive technology to meet goals. With the right application, the Twist has the potential to really optimise someone's life outcomes and engagement.

For more information on the Klaxon Twist and details about the upcoming launch, contact the team at APEX Mobility on: 1300 212 192 or email: sales@apexmobility.com.au.

Ricon – for all wheelchair safety equipment requirements

Kevrek is the national distributor for Ricon wheelchair lifts and Unwin Safety Systems and prides itself on importing and distributing the best quality disability equipment.

Ricon, a Wabtec Company, distributes Ricon products to over 30 companies throughout Australia.

T he extensive product line includes wheelchair lifts and accessories to suit both personal vehicles and specialised public vehicles, such as taxi vans, school buses and vehicles that cater to hospitals, aged care facilities and other organisations, as well as a wide range of transit buses and coaches to make travel easily accessible.

T he Ricon range of products goes hand in hand with Kevrek’s other subsidiary group, Unwin Safety Systems, that is said to provide the

highest quality transport accessibility options in the world.

Unwin Safety Systems manufacture a range of wheelchair occupant restraints designed to provide safety, comfort and security for the passenger, whilst remaining user-friendly. Advances in wheelchair technology have allowed Unwin to continue to adapt their products to suit all styles of wheelchairs, as well as the changing needs of the consumer.

T hrough Kevrek’s association with Ricon & Unwin for over 30 years, they have built up the most extensive technical knowledge in the industry on a worldwide scale.

T his knowledge, coupled with their long-standing association in the mobility market and the superior level of importance Kevrek places

on customer service, has made them the leading supplier of wheelchair passenger safety equipment in Australia.

Occupational Therapy: Supporting people to live their best lives

Occupational therapists (OTs) work with people of all ages, from young children, through to older adults. OTs work throughout the public and private sectors in a range of practice areas, including assistive technology (AT), driving, mental health, rehabilitation, disability and more. While the type of work and support provided by OTs for people of different ages may vary, the goal remains the same: to enable people to participate in activities they find meaningful.

For OTs working with babies and toddlers, the focus is often on working towards reaching developmental milestones. OTs can work with young children to help achieve daily occupations, such as play and self-care, and supporting their developmental needs as they reach school age. Some OTs work directly within schools, playing a part in fostering positive and inclusive learning environments to support all children to thrive and participate in the activities that are important to them. They might prescribe AT to support safe transportation of children with additional needs, design strategies to develop fine and gross motor skills or provide mental health interventions.

As children move through to adolescence and adulthood, OTs continue to play an important role in many people’s lives. As occupational therapy is a client-centred health profession, the focus remains on what activities a person can do, and what activities they want and need to be able to do. For some adults, working with an OT can be beneficial as they approach key life milestones like entering the workforce, learning to drive or becoming parents. Interventions might focus on building skills around self-care, social and vocational skills and navigating the community. Specialist prescription of AT and home modifications is also an important feature of occupational therapy interventions. For example, tailored solutions that allow people with mobility limitations to safely get in and out of a vehicle, or to independently drive a vehicle, might be central to a person achieving vocational or social life goals.

ENGAGING IN MEANINGFUL ACTIVITIES AND MUCH MORE

As people age and may experience a change in their physical abilities, OTs play an important role in assisting people to continue engaging in

activities meaningful to them. In early stages of ageing, OTs may focus on supporting ongoing participation in daily activities of living and strategies to allow people to remain in their home. This might include the coordination of home modifications to support safe use of their environment, recommending AT to address changing function or safety and interventions to support active engagement in the community. ATs such as mobility scooters, personal safety devices or digital technologies can support many older people to remain safe and independent in the community. As a person progresses, and may move into residential aged care, OTs work to prevent functional decline and address the higher care needs of an individual. This might include the prescription of specialised seating to support skin care, address pain and facilitate participation. OTs also work alongside other health professionals within aged care facilities to support cognitive and behavioural changes that may be associated with conditions such as dementia.

Whatever the stage of life a person is in, an OT can work to support their participation in meaningful activities, which may otherwise be challenging as a result of a change in function.

Occupational

Therapy

Australia (OTA) is the peak professional body representing the interests of occupational therapists across Australia. We exist to support occupational therapists throughout their career so they can support individuals to participate in the occupations of life, no matter what stage of life they are in.

For more information on occupational therapy visit Stand #222 at the Perth Expo and to find an OT in your area, visit: www.otaus.com.au

Need to find an occupational therapist in your local area?

Our find an OT directory lists over 3,000 occupational therapists throughout Australia.

What is occupational therapy?

Occupational therapy enables people to participate in activities they find meaningful. These activities include taking care of oneself (and others), working, volunteering, and participating in interests and social events.

What does an occupational therapist do?

Occupational therapists use a whole person perspective to work with individuals, groups and communities to achieve optimal health and wellbeing through participation in the occupations of life.

An OT will work with you to do what you want to do, easily and safely.

OTA is proudly exhibiting at ATSA in Melbourne and Perth – come along and meet us there.

www.otaus.com.au/findanot

Do you, or someone you know and care for suffer from Sleep Apnoea, reflux, pain or other medical conditions that prevent you from getting a good night's sleep? What about just getting in and out of bed; has that become a problem for you or for someone you know? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then contact the experts in Adjustable Beds from Sleep Electric.

Sleep Electric has the largest range in adjustable beds in WA that can help improve your quality of sleep. We have Massage beds, HiLo beds, Split beds in Queen and King and lots of mattress options to ensure you are comfortable – and they don't look like clunky hospital beds either! Our beds are stylish and functional and made to the highest quality, in fact our Elite model adjustable bed has achieved Australian and New Zealand Standards! We also have a very extensive range of Pressure Care mattresses for those requiring additional care at home.

We are also registered for NDIS and Home Care Packages and can discuss your needs with your occupational therapist or care provider to ensure you get the bed and mattress that best meets your current and future requirements. You can visit us at our showroom in Jandakot or if leaving home is a

problem for you, we can come to you with our mobile showroom. Yes, we come to you!

Take a Trionic for a trial

Tr ionic Australia is a NDIS registered provider supplying premium Swedish outdoor walkers with 9-inch super soft tyres or large 12 or 14-inch air-filled tyres.

Trionic walkers are being trialled and used Australia-wide, from Yirrkala and Galiwinku in the Northern Territory to Bruny Island in southern Tasmania, and from Geraldton in Western Australia to Norfolk Island off the east coast of Australia. They are used in beach, bush, farm, alpine and urban environments for commuting, work, sport, exercise, recreation and rehabilitation.

T here are four easy steps to organise a trial:

1. Identify the Trionic Walker or Veloped that is the ‘best fit’ model to meet your client’s objectives and needs

2. A brief phone call with Trionic to help you decide or confirm ‘best fit’ model to ship for trial

3. Approve shipment of the Trionic ‘best fit’ model to the AT advisor

and provide name, delivery address, email address and phone number of delivery receiver (AT Advisor or office)

4. Provide name, address and NDIS

participant number (or other ref) of user/client for delivery, quotation and tax invoice purposes. (Client/ user details are only used in our system to ship a Trionic model and send a quotation or tax invoice).

Trionic Walkers and Velopeds promote safe, secure outdoor exercise and enjoyment. As well as a synchronised steering system the Trionic walker range has frame flexibility to assist all wheels to maintain connection with the ground.

T he off-road capable Trionic Veloped has a patented front climbing wheel. All models have all-terrain hub brakes, oversized 6061-T6 aluminium frames and a 10-year guarantee (parts subject to normal wear excluded).

See Trionic at the Perth Expo on Stand #4.

Contact David today to discuss your needs and arrange a trial: PH 1300 50 30 30 or email: david@trionic.com.au

Rehab Technology Distribution debuts at Perth ATSA Expo

New products and informative seminar sessions at the Expo

Rehab Technology Distribution (RTD) importers of many brands such as Easystand, Special Tomato, Hoggi, Meywalk and Connie Hansen Frame Runners will partner with local Perth business, Good Life Medical at this year’s event. RTD will also present several informative sessions at this year’s ATSA Perth E xpo.

For the first time in Australia, Maryann Girardi, clinical education specialist for Easystand will present a seminar session ‘Stand up for Independence’ Join Maryann at 2:00pm on Thursday June 1 in Room 1.

Girardi is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and a RESNA Certified ATP. With over 30 years’ experience working with adults and paediatric complex neurological conditions, she will present

on how participating in supported standing can facilitate a person’s function and quality of life. The session will outline how standing can promote independence and improve quality of life and overall health.

Frame Running (also known as Race Running) will feature for the first time at ATSA Perth on the RTD stand. This exciting new activity is ideal for therapy, fitness and with clubs forming in Perth, now is a great time to try one yourself.

R TD national educator Rob Norman will host a paediatric panel on Wednesday May 31 at 1pm in Room 1. He will bring together a wealth of knowledge from across the industry and take questions from attendees during the discussion.

Visit Rehab Technology Distribution and Good Life Medical on Stand #48. We can walk you through our exciting new additions to our product range, including new strollers and walkers from Europe.

We will also have our new Therapy Kit on display to discuss how we can partner with you to help your clients. Visit our website: www.rtdaus.com.au

Precious Emily

Exhibitors

ABILITY TECH

Stand 162

Ability TECH works closely with individuals, families, carers and therapists to provide support and technical expertise that leads to greater independence for our customers.

They have Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Speech Pathologists and a workshop team of technicians. Their highly skilled technicians, industrial designer and mechatronics engineer, build customised solutions for your challenges.

Equipment and parts are sourced from a range of manufacturers so you will always have access to the latest equipment and technology available. If an off-the-shelf product is not right for you, their team can modify it to suit your needs.

www.abilitywa.com.au

AC MOBILITY

Stand 180

AC Mobility offers a large range of assistive technology, mobility, daily living aids & prescription equipment to help people with disabilities of all ages & aged care. With over 30 years of experience, AC Mobility is a NDIS provider and has achieved Quality Management System, ISO 9001:2015. Their team of product specialists and Therapists are committed to providing top-quality services and products, including wheelchairs, both powered and manual, cushions/ specialised seating, walking aids, bedroom & bathroom aids, hoists and lifts, and custommade ramps. They have a comprehensive selection of paediatric equipment including car seats, prams, walkers, standers, and trikes.

Additionally, AC Mobility offers Hire

Mobility Equipment, Service & Repairs on the equipment they sell, Free Trials with Therapist, Online Store, Huge showroom in Malaga, Approved DVA Supplier

www.acmobility.com.au

ACORN STAIRLIFTS

Stand 116

An Acorn Stairlift gives you a safe, comfortable and simple way to get up and down your stairs. Each Acorn Stairlift is tailor-made to suit your individual home and lifestyle. They are designed for fast installation with a range of cleverly engineered features that make them quick and simple for us to install and more importantly for you to use.

Acorn Stairlifts are precision manufactured, designed and assembled in the UK. They are fitted by qualified installation engineers, with all work conforming to the highest standards. These are just a few reasons why Acorn has hundreds of thousands of happy customers throughout the world. www.acornstairlifts.com.au

ACTIVE ADAPTIVE

Stand 226

Active Adaptive engineer and manufacture clothing around skin integrity and sensitivity challenges. Their Seamless Back Trouser has been a game changer for many who find themselves sitting throughout the day. They also specialize in adapting personally loved clothing items for making dressing and wearing easier. Push Mitts and various Palmer Pockets have been developed for a variety of uses, aiding hands where fingers have lost power in use. Wheelchair bags, Straps and anything sew able, that aids in supporting activities in the use of a wheelchair, they are happy to create.

www.activeadaptive.com.au

AIDACARE

Stand 146

Aidacare is one of Australia’s largest Healthcare Equipment and Service providers. Since 1987, they have assisted Australians in the Hospital; Residential Aged-Care; Home & Community Care; Complex and Rehabilitation sectors. Their focus on product quality and ongoing services & support has made Aidacare & Aspire trusted brands throughout Australia.

“Aidacare’s vision is to be Australia’s leading Healthcare Distributor in our chosen areas of focus providing unparalleled customer service and product excellence as a path to optimal healthcare equipment solutions for our customers”.

www.aidacare.com.au

ALLIANZ PARTNERS

Stand 158

At Allianz Partners your clients are in safe hands, with over 22 years of experience in caring for vulnerable people we are supported by a network of providers across Australia including over 500 trade providers and health equipment suppliers. Allianz Partners is a proud provider to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Allianz Partners offers assistance in the aged care sector with Home Maintenance, Domestic Assistance, Gardening, Allied Health, and Aids and Equipment to promote greater independence, safety and quality of life each and every day.

www.mobilityservices.com.au

AUSTRALIAN MOBILITY EQUIPMENT

Stand 132

Australian Mobility Equipment is a familyowned business that began in 1991 and grew steadily with the desire of the owners to meet the needs of the WA seniors & disability community. AME’s vision was to create a business that provided innovative mobility product solutions in a professional, modern and friendly atmosphere by offering a vast range of equipment that is available to trial free of charge to ensure they are suitable and comfortable for client’s needs.

AME pride themselves in having highly trained product consultants offering personalised service to ensure the correct product is prescribed, including modifications or customising wheelchairs.

As well as offering general service & repairs to their range of mobility equipment in their fully equipped workshop or by arranging an at home visit with one of their service technicians.

AME are committed to helping you find the right product for your needs and ensuring that you receive the best in after-sales product support, they are proud to be NDIS-approved providers.

www.amemobility.com.au

APEX MOBILITY

Stand 150

APEX Mobility is an Australian owned company and wholesale supplier of a wide range of Assistive Technology equipment for people with a disability. APEX Mobility have a network of dealers throughout Australia who have an in-depth knowledge of the assistive technology industry and products.

www.apexmobility.com.au

Exhibitors

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY SUPPLIERS AUSTRALIA (ATSA)

Stand T1

Assistive Technology Suppliers Australia (ATSA) gives members a business edge through access to the services, tools and connections only a peak body can deliver. Founded in 2000 by dedicated assistive technology experts, ATSA is the industry’s voice to government, allied health and other stakeholders. ATSA promote the vital role of assistive technology. Their works puts the spotlight onto an essential industry and advocates for the highest standards of professionalism in the AT industry. ATSA represent members in all facets of assistive technology, including suppliers, manufacturers, service providers and individuals. They can support you with context, guidance and industry contacts, making business easier in a challenging environment.

When you join ATSA, your business will be represented within the peak industry body. Your membership lends your voice to the development of appropriate, workable legislation. Membership of ATSA also signals your business’ commitment to quality results for people who deserve nothing short of the best from the AT industry.

www.atsa.org.au

AUSTRALIAN REHABILITATION & ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY ASSOCIATION (ARATA)

Stand T4

The Australian Rehabilitation & Assistive Technology Association (ARATA) is the national peak body representing rehabilitation & assistive technology stakeholders. ARATA’s mission is to & sustain an inclusive assistive technology

(AT) community of practice. ARATA offers a range of benefits, including an active member listserv where people can pose questions or conversations about AT, with advice regarding AT use, supply, development, research &/or education. ARATA runs various webinars on AT topics, which can be accessed live or after the event via our online shop. ARATA has a range of AT publications & government/industry submissions available via their website.

www.arata.org.au

AUTOMOBILITY Stand 174

Automobility is one of Australia’s leading wheelchair access vehicle manufacturers. Commencing operations in 2001, they are driven by Core Values of Excellence, Customer Oriented and Integrity and are renowned for their innovative and highquality designs and conversions.

Automobility wheelchair access vehicles meet Australian Standards. They offer different configurations – driver and drive from wheelchair or front row wheelchair, 2nd row wheelchair, 3rd row wheelchair and seating for up to 6 people.

With robust construction and simple maintenance free proven designs, their vehicles are ideal for private or commercial users. Automobility are one of the major suppliers to the Transport Accident Commission, Workcover, Insurance companies, Court funded purchases, community transport and private buyers Australia wide.

Automobility pride themselves in customer service and support that includes a 24-hour emergency contact phone and an Australia wide service and support network.

Call now on 1300 660 773 to arrange for a no obligation demonstration.

www.automobility.com.au

AVANT INNOVATIONS

Stand 108

Avant Innovations is Australia’s leading importer and distributor of assistive technology that aims to provide the user with holistic support as opposed to just basic day-to-day tasks. Visit them to see how to access the pool and the beach or how to achieve a good night’s sleep through positioning and sensory integration. They can help with solutions in essential areas such as lifting & transfer, hygiene and upper limb augmentation to improve eating, drinking and other hand-related tasks. Talk to Avant Innovations about mobility in both early intervention and rehabilitation phases.

www.avantinnovations.com.au

BEE FREE MOBILITY Stand 170

Bee Free Mobility evolved to fill a gap in the market for customers desiring genuine guidance on how to select the right equipment. Their aim is to treat all customers and stakeholders with a holistic approach, ultimately providing exceptional service that ensures they get maximum value, independence and satisfaction from their investment.

Bee Free Mobility offer a select choice of brands and products are carefully sourced to meet specific client needs and circumstances. Their ethos is committed with supporting their customer rather than in the promotion of brands and products whilst delivering old fashioned values.

www.beefreemobility.com.au

BARKERS BEDDING & FURNITURE

Stand 212

Barkers Bedding & Furniture is a family-owned business which has been one of Perth’s most trusted brands for over 50 years. As a proud WA family business Barkers Bedding & Furniture pride themselves on the best customer service, the highest quality furniture at the most affordable prices. With a proven track record of over 50 years, it’s no wonder why their loyal customers continue to come back repeatedly.

Operating out of their Morley store, David & Miri have established one of Perth’s most trusted Bedding & Furniture brands focussing on their customers’ requirements in Adjustable Beds, WA Made Mattresses, Lift Chairs & other Mobility Products. Barkers

Bedding & Furniture is a NDIS Registered Provider, providing FREE Delivery, Installation with unbeatable service, quality products at incredible prices.

Come & say hello at Stand 212

www.barkersfurniture.com.au

BLUE BADGE INSURANCE Stand

115

Blue Badge Insurance has pioneered specialist disability insurance in Australia since 2014, with a focus on protecting the mobility and independence of people with disability and restricted movement. Blue Badge Insurance offers tailored insurance cover for Motor Vehicles, Mobility Equipment and Pet Insurance.

www.bluebadgeinsurance.com.au

Exhibitors

BRAZIER MOBILITY

Stand 134

Brazier Mobility (formerly Les Brazier Special Vehicles) is Australia’s premier modifier of Vehicles for Wheelchair Accessibility and modified driving controls. All modified Vehicles are certified to the relevant Australian Standard and Australian Design Rules irrespective of which state.

With over 35 years’ experience the team are experts in the transportation needs of the mobility challenged and elderly ranging from one off individualised modification to multiple vehicle modifications. The Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles along with other modifications and mobility products are distributed to an Australia wide customer base.

www.braziermobility.com.au

CANTERBURY CONCEPTS Stand 114

Canterbury Concepts grabrails have built a reputation for trust and reliability. Their rails have been designed and tested to maximise grip and optimise safety. They are produced with a contemporary look and modern colours. Available in beige and white they look great in the home or anywhere they’re needed. Canterbury Concepts grabrails continue to be the preferred grabrail safety solution all throughout Australia and New Zealand, and the Canterbury Concepts team are proud to provide a product that assists people to continue with their daily activities and remain secure.

Canterbury Concepts grabrails: Stay mobile. Stay independent. Stay at home.

www.canterburyconcepts.com.au

BRIGHTSKY AUSTRALIA

Stand 192

BrightSky Australia is the social enterprise of Forward Ability Support and home delivers a wide range of specialist healthcare products including Continence, Wound Care, Skin Care, Nutritional Supplements & Specialised Foods, Respiratory Products and Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) direct to your door.

With commitment to delivering quality healthcare products, supported by their dedicated customer service team, BrightSky Australia are continuously striving to go the extra mile for their customers. They aim to support their community with genuine wellness solutions.

BrightSky are about supporting you to help you maintain and improve your health and support you to live your best life.

www.brightsky.com.au

CARERS WA Outside Entrance

Carers WA is a non-profit, communitybased organisation and registered charity dedicated to improving the lives of the estimated 230,000 unpaid family carers living in Western Australia. Part of the National Network of Carers Associations, they are the peak body recognised by both State and Federal governments as the voice of family carers. Carers WA represents carers interests in the Western Australian community.

www.carerswa.asn.au

COUNTRY CARE GROUP AND K CARE HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS

Stand 110

K Care Healthcare Solutions and Country Care Group are thrilled to be exhibiting on stand 110 at ATSA Independent Living Expo Perth.

K Care is bringing local innovative manufacturing to the forefront, presenting the new Tilt in Space Rehab Commode, which was designed and manufactured in Australia. Other products such as the Air Comfort Deluxe Bed V2 and the versatile Multi Lift Standing or Sitting Patient Lifter on display. K Care will also be showcasing a new Alivio Lift Recline Chair model being added to the range.

Country Care Group will have a variety of contracted products showcasing the best in daily living aids, the ergonomic Webequ knives, plus the popular Uccello Kettles and One Touch products. Throughout the day the team will be demonstrating how the products can positively impact on everyday lives.

www.countrycaregroup.com.au

www.kcare.com.au

DISABILITY SAFE SEATING SOLUTIONS

Stand 121

Providing safe seating solutions for individuals with disabilities, medical conditions or special needs. Suppliers of behavioural, postural harnesses, child car restraints and accessories to improve safer travel in vehicle.

www.disabilitysafeseatingsolutions.com.au

internationally, they offer a wide range of mattresses & bases to meet your support, comfort and lifestyle needs.

Domayne have partnered with AH Beard to present an exclusive range of products catered for the disability sector to so you can find the perfect mattress and motorised lifestyle base to achieve a better night sleep, giving you the energy to handle life’s physical and mental challenges.

au.domayne.com

DPS PUBLISHING

Stand 5

DPS Publishing are behind the popular and informative Aged Care Guide, Disability Support Guide and Your Retirement Living Guide. These information-rich guides contain everything you need to know to navigate the Aged Care, Disability or Retirement sectors. From information articles to real life stories, to a comprehensive directory of providers, the guides contain everything you need to know to find support and care.

www.dps.com.au

ELDER RIGHTS WA (ERWA)

Stand T7

DOMAYNE BEDDING CITY WEST

Stand 154

With a passion for innovation and design, Domayne City West is a leading retailer in sleep solutions. Sourcing the latest sleep technologies both from Australia &

Elder Rights WA (ERWA) is a state-wide specialist legal service delivered by Legal Aid WA to provide advice and assistance to older people who may be experiencing certain legal problems. The service is holistic in nature, with social workers supporting clients to address physical, mental, and social challenges that may be present alongside their legal concerns. ERWA also offers community legal education sessions to raise awareness of elder abuse and promote preventative actions.

www.legalaid.wa.gov.au

Exhibitors

EMPRISE MOBILITY

Stand 60

Emprise Mobility is a Western Australia business with locations in Perth and Mandurah. They service the Perth metropolitan area, the Peel Region and country WA. They sell, install, service and hire mobility equipment, daily living aids and assistive technology to assist people facing reduced mobility arising from age, illness or disability.

Their products help with every-day activities such as walking, personal hygiene, accessing vehicles, sleeping, sitting and eating. Emprise Mobility provide products to help in the bathroom, bedroom, kitchen and living room, and to help you get up, out and about.

“Let us help you enjoy more everyday living in every day.”

www.emprise.com.au

EUROPEAN BEDDING

Stand 202

European Bedding has operated as a familyowned business in Perth for over 30 years. They are the market leading supplier of highquality adjustable beds and pressure care mattresses as well as bedroom furniture and accessories. Manufactured in Italy, Germany and Belgium, their bedroom products are designed to deliver healthy sleeping, perfect comfort and a rejuvenation of the body and mind.

They have a new refurbished showroom in the heart of Cottesloe, where their bed models and mattress are on display. They would love you to drop in and see them.

www.europeanbedding.com.au

FINCH HEALTHCARE

Stand 104

Finch Healthcare brings a premium selection of assistive technology products to Australian retailers with a view to improving clinical outcomes for Australians living with a disability. Having this commitment, they partner with retailers known for their excellence in customer service and product application.

www.finchhealthcare.com.au

FOR-DE GROUP

Stand 142

RedgumBRAND & SHOPRIDER Mobility has been supplying innovative daily living and lifestyle products as well as mobility scooters and power chairs, to the Australian market for more than 25 years. RedgumBRAND & SHOPRIDER Mobility has a strong reputation for reliability and quality of their complete product range and along with outstanding parts availability from its vast dealer network. Their Parent Company FOR-DE GROUP continues to grow its Shoprider range of products not only in mobility scooters & power chairs but also in the established RedgumBRAND range of daily living & lifestyle products.

www.shoprider.com.au

FREEDOM MOTORS AUSTRALIA

Stand 178

Based in Sydney NSW Australia, Freedom Motors Australia Pty. Ltd was founded in 1997. Since that year they have grown to become the premier vehicle modifier

for wheelchair access Australia wide. They pride themselves on bringing the most innovative and reliable wheelchair transportation solutions to the market. They have experience in the design, manufacture and installation of lowered floors, ramps and hoists to many private and commercial vehicles.

Freedom Motors are a quality driven company, so you can rest assured that you are dealing with a company who is committed to manufacturing the best quality wheelchair accessible vehicles, with the best trade persons, to the highest standards for the Australian market.

www.freedommotorsaustralia.com.au

through NDIS) and to hospitals in the Perth metropolitan area and to all country regions of WA.

On their website you will find detailed information about the products they sell and you can view their selection of wheelchairs, mobility equipment and various other products from the comfort of your home. Their online facility makes it easy for customers to access our products whether you wish to purchase a product for yourself or for a family member.

Good Life Medical are committed to delivering high quality products and outstanding customer service. They are proud to have been assisting people with disabilities in Western Australia for over 25 years.

www.goodlifemedical.com.au

GLIDE PRODUCTS Stand 259

Glide Products is one of Australia’s leading manufacturers of highly scripted manual and powered wheelchairs. With over 40 years’ experience, they have built a reputation of trust by consistently delivering quality workmanship and meticulous service. Glide Products are a proud Australian-owned and registered NDIS service provider, having achieved ISO 9001 Quality Assurance accreditation since 1993. They look forward to moving to a larger premises in 2023 as they continue to expand our range of wheelchairs and services.

www.glide.com.au

GOOD LIFE MEDICAL Stand 48

Good Life Medical is a Western Australian family owned and operated business that specialises in the supply of mobility and disability equipment in Perth. They sell direct to the general public (either privately or

GRAFTON GENERAL PRODUCTS Stand 102

Grafton General Products provide home safety modifications to the Perth metro area. They supply and install their products, giving clients maximum value and convenience along with full peace of mind.

Their extensive list of products include ramps, rails and easy-access steps, allowing clients to move around their home with ease. Their bathroom and toilet rails will assist mobility and increase safety, while shower hoses, lever taps, non-slip floor solutions and minor bathroom modifications can assist people with bathing and daily hygiene routines. Grafton General Products also provide bed and chair raises, making these easier to access for those with difficulties.

www.graftongeneralproducts.com.au

Exhibitors

GUARDIAN SAFETY PENDANTS

Stand 214

Guardian Safety Pendants offers Australia’s largest range of Mobile Personal. Fully customised for monitoring by family & friends or 24/7 professional monitoring. Their products have been shortlisted twice in the past 4 years for ATSA’s Best Product of the Year.

Unmatched Customer Care includes lifetime support and unlimited programming changes. Guardian Safety Pendants are a Registered NDIS Provider nationwide offering extraordinary service to their clients and allied health professionals. Occupational therapists and medical professionals entrust their clients to them because they treat everyone as they would their own family.

Having a Guardian means having peace of mind.

www.guardiansp.com.au

HANDI REHAB

Stand 100

Handi-Rehab helps people with reduced mobility to transfer safely and easily from the wheelchair to bed, bath, shower.

Handi-Rehab is an Australian company that specialises in the premium independent lifting solution Handi-Move. www.handirehab.com.au

HERO INFLATABLE SWIM SHIRT

Stand 106

The HERO Inflatable Swim Shirt is suitable for all ages and lifestyles. HERO’s mission is to bring innovation and technology to sportswear, making water-based activities safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

The HERO has many advantages and allows people of all abilities to enjoy the freedom and fun of being in the water.

The HERO Inflatable Shirt is ideal for waterbased therapy, providing support and confidence for the wearer. The buoyancy of the HERO shirt can be adjusted as needed with instant inflation if required.

Everyone Need’s a HERO

ww.youneedahero.com

HOME CHEF

Stand 84

Home Chef is a WA owned and operated company servicing the aged care and disability industry since 1984. They are renowned for outstanding customer service and delicious Snap-Frozen homestyle meals which are delicious, nutritious and delivered to your door. They have dedicated drivers who are work consistent routes to be able to create trusting relationships with their clients and in turn be able to report on any changes that may be of concern to the welfare of clients directly to their service provider or next of kin. They also support those on HCP, CHSP and are NDIS registered.

www.homechef.com.au

HOSPEQUIP

Stand 80 & 176

HospEquip has established itself as the “Go-To” company for friendly, expert advice trusted by healthcare professionals and individuals. An industry leader within Aged Care, Hospital, Home Care, NDIS and Rehabilitation across 5 locations in Australia, their team are experts in sales, hire and preventative maintenance for medical equipment. A curated group of quality products include electric beds, pressure care mattresses, wheelchairs and scooters, bathroom and shower aids. Their customers are their priority, which is why HospEquip is a registered NDIS provider along with an Allianz contracted supplier for DVA equipment, ensuring they supply the best products to suit your needs.

www.hospequip.com.au

INDEPENDENT LIVING ASSESSMENT Stand 65

iLA co-designed the initiative AT Chat to help you make informed assistive technology (AT) decisions by providing peer support and peer-led information. AT Chat has just launched WA’s first dedicated AT Mentor service which has redefined how people access impartial information about technology to help them get on with living their lives.

AT Mentors are people with disability who are qualified AT advisors dedicated to helping you discover and purchase AT with your NDIS funding. They can provide you with advice and letters of recommendation for AT items, worth up to $15,000, that enables you to achieve your goals.

www.ilaustralia.org.au

HUMANWARE Stand 208

HumanWare is the global leader in assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. HumanWare offers a wide range of innovative products, including the BrailleNote Touch, first Google certified braille tablet, the iOS compatible Brailliant braille displays, Victor Reader®, the world’s leading family of digital audiobook players, the unique Prodigi® family of desktop and portable vision and reading systems, and the ultra-portable explore line of electronic handheld magnifier.

www.humanware.com/en-australia/ home

INDIGO Stand 14

Indigo is the Independent Living Centre WA, originally established in 1977. Located in Nedlands, Western Australia, their skilled and experienced health professionals provide services within the community to people of all ages and abilities access equipment, technology and services to support and enhance their independence and wellbeing. Indigo’s key service areas include aged care and disability allied health, assistive technology, and home modifications; speech pathology and occupational health services to schools; and being the Australian Government’s national goods, equipment and assistive technology provider (‘geat2GO’). Indigo’s knowledgeable and friendly staff support older Australians, people with disabilities, carers, health professionals and educators.

www.indigosolutions.org.au

Exhibitors

INNOGREEN Stand 127

Innogreen Technologies is a Perth based company specialising in integrating smart homes. Innogreen assists NDIS participants to live independently through voice activated or tablet-based control of home appliances, lights, home entertainment, CCTV, A/V, fans plus much more. Innogreen personalises each smart home system to the users’ needs and provides ongoing technical support and training.

www.innogreen.net.au

INTELLIGENT HOME Stand 43

Home automation technology provides convenient and effective solutions to improve the quality of life for individuals living with disabilities. Integrated systems can control doors, lights, air conditioning, and security using sensors and central app-based control with minimal human interaction. This provides peace of mind to caregivers and family members and enhances independence for those with limited mobility and sensory or cognitive impairments.

Intelligent Home’s specialise in customising packages for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) projects, ensuring access to entry and exit, elevator and floor transport, environmental and audiovisual systems control, and cloud-based remote access. Their team of experts provides personalised solutions for each project. They are a registered NDIS provider.

www.intelligenthome.com.au

KEVREK (AUSTRALIA)

Stand 66

KEVREK (Australia) Pty Ltd is the National Importer and Distributor for Ricon Wheelchair Lifts and Unwin Passenger Restraint Systems for Australia and New Zealand who are the market leaders worldwide for passenger safety equipment.

RICON’s Extensive line of Hydraulic Wheelchair lifts and UNWIN’s safe and reliable range of Wheelchair Passenger Restraints ensures that Kevrek provides customers with safety, comfort and security for both wheelchair and seated passengers whilst remaining user friendly for the operator.

A family-owned and operated company for over 3 decades, Kevrek has built a longstanding customer base and a strong dealer/ service network across Australia and New Zealand making Kevrek the premier supplier of wheelchair and passenger security equipment throughout Australia.

www.kevrek.com.au

KIDDIKUTTER CHILD & ADULT SAFE KNIVES

Stand 62

Kiddikutter have a range of safe knives for children and adults to use without fear of injuring themselves. Sold globally KiddiKutter Child & Adult Safe Knives retail and wholesale and can invoice NDIS clients.

www.kiddikutter.com.au

KISA

Stand T3

KISA stands for Keep It Simple Always a complete solution to help the elderly, the vulnerable and people with disability to stay safe and maintain independence, while also helping their carers and relatives enjoy peace of mind.

www.kisa.com.au

LINAK AUSTRALIA

Stand 160

MEDLINE®& CARELINE® is a LINAK segment focusing on reliable actuators and medically approved actuator systems for healthcare applications. This includes beds, couches/ tables for treatment, and chairs for hospitals, nursing homes or treatment centres, as well as patient lifts and wheelchairs.

Since the early 1990s, MEDLINE & CARELINE has maintained a worldwide position as a leading supplier of cutting-edge solutions. The aim is to help customers stay ahead in a dynamic market and ultimately improve the lives of patients and carers in hospitals, nursing homes, various treatment centres and private homes worldwide.

www.linak.com.au/segments/medlinecareline

LINDS REHABILITATION EQUIPMENT

Stand 184

Linds Rehabilitation Equipment is an Australian family owned and operated business which was founded in 1965. Over half a century later, Linds Rehabilitation has grown to become an industry leading, experienced, and respected supplier of complex wheelchair solutions to the healthcare industry throughout Australia. Linds Rehabilitation will be showcasing the Amylior powerchair range including the Ascent Stander, Motion Composites range of carbon fibre light-weight manual wheelchairs, PDG range of Tilt-in-Space wheelchairs, including the new T50 TakeApart, Active Controls alternate control positioning systems, the Switch-It specialty controls and switches, a variety of seating solutions (including Dynamic options) the Ibis Nuage along with a variety of powered mobility options including the Klaxon powered attachments for manual wheelchairs and much more.

www.lindsrehab.com.au

LINK ASSISTIVE

Stand 140

Link Assistive are an Australian supplier of Assistive, Interactive and Sensory Technology for individuals with physical, cognitive and developmental disabilities. Their team of assistive technology, communication, mounting and sensory specialists includes Speech Pathologists, an Occupational Therapist, an IT and Repair Specialist and Administrative staff.

www.linkassistive.com

Exhibitors

LODGESONS Stand 122

Lodgesons is the UK market leader for Spinner controls. They sell worldwide and have a global reputation for quality products and as they specialise in this technology, they can focus 100% on design and development with both customers and specialist installers in mind.

“I have been installing Lodgesons for approximately 14 years, in that time not 1 single failure. Great products, fantastic support, guaranteed customer satisfaction.”

– Troy Rowe, Freedom Motors, WA

“I have right side hemiplegia and without the Lodgesons control I would not be able to drive. Best product out for disabled drivers”

– N. Murphy, Western Australia

Visit stand #122 to see their choice of ergonomic, soft-touch, quick release R200 lollipop & steering ball grips.

www.lodgesons.co.uk

MAGIC MOBILITY Stand 130

Magic Mobility is Australia’s premier power wheelchair designer, developer and manufacturer. Their focus is on creating customised wheelchairs tailored to individual needs. They are determined to push the boundaries of what power wheelchairs can achieve and above all provide users with choice.

Their all-terrain wheelchairs help bring more aspirational goals within reach because they take you where you need to go and help you stay comfortable for longer.

The modular design enables easy adaption with seating and accessories as your goals and needs change. This makes a Magic Mobility power wheelchair cost less to own and operate over its lifetime.

www.magicmobility.com.au

MANAGE IT

Stand 128

LUDDI Stand T8

LUDDI is on a mission to bring modern assistive technology that looks and feels good. They’re not afraid to tackle taboos, and they are proud to release the first sex toy for all bodies. Come and meet the ZIGGY.

www.luddi.co

When you choose Manage It, you can expect personalised service and support by their local, friendly team. Think of them as your own personal finance team - with a NDIS twist! Their Financial Administration service allows you to tell us what you need paid, such as bills and reimbursements.

Simply send your payment requests to your dedicated plan manager and they will take care of the rest, such as record keeping, claiming from the NDIS portal and processing the payment.

www.manageit.com.au

MEDIFAB Stand 2

Shaping better lives since 1990. Grown from small beginnings, the Medifab and Spex story is driven by a single-minded purpose –to bring comfort and functionality to people living with disability.

They design and manufacture specialist seating and high-quality clinical equipment for children and adults with complex medical needs. Established with a genuine passion to help, they innovate to create break-through technologies, so clients can manage their daily physical and cognitive challenges with the dignity they deserve.

Working closely with therapists, carers and clients, their customer-focussed approach and ‘whatever it takes’ attitude is at the heart of everything they do.

www.medifab.com

MELROSE/ROVE WHEELCHAIRS

Stand 118

Melrose is a market leader in light weight customisable day chairs and sports chairs. Their high-end products lead the way in elite sport and their day chairs for active users aim to give independence and style to their loyal customers.

Their Rove chair combines Carbon fibre tubing with 3D titanium printing to produce a stylish highly customisable fixed frame day chair that turns heads. And it’s made right here in Australia!

www.melrosewheelchairs.com.au

MEMORY MACHINE

Stand 138

Memory Machine is a ground-breaking and unique App dedicated to support people living with memory loss, their carers, family and friends. A communication hub like no other it helps with the challenges of forgetfulness, loosing things, repeating, social isolation and scheduling.

Affordable and accessible it is designed to help people living with mild memory loss through to late-stage dementia. Memory Machine are dedicated to supporting dignity and independence.

www.memorymachine.com.au

MERITS AUSTRALIA

Stand 148

Merits Australia is the Importer & distributors of the Merits range of state of the art mobility & healthcare equipment. Products including a modern well-appointed full scooter range, folding scooters, pull apart scooters, also medium & large scooters with weight capacity over 200kg. A modern well-appointed full range of power chairs including small compact transportable pull apart & folding to medium & large with weight capacity over 200kg & a modern wellappointed range of rehab power chairs with options of power tilt, power recline, power leg rest & power seat lift. Also a range of manual equipment, rollators, wheel chairs & bathroom products.

Merits Australia dealer network has coverage across all of Australia.

www.meritsaustralia.com.au

PERTH 31 MAY - 1 JUNE 2023

Exhibitors

MOBILITY ENGINEERING Stand 186

At Mobility Engineering, they specialise in vehicle mobility solutions that provide independence to people across Australia. Their mission is to improve the lives of Australians by empowering them to be independently travelling in the vehicle of their choice.

They do this by providing Australia’s largest range of Mobility Adaption products for vehicles and operate a nationwide network of installers. Their range of products will ensure that no matter your ability and strength, they can tailor a solution that can get you driving and enjoying the independence you deserve!

www.mobilityengineering.com.au

MOTUM Stand 98

Clinical expertise and clever, well-designed equipment that goes hand-in-hand at Motum. Their team is passionate about helping individuals live the life they want, to the best of their capabilities. This year, they are bringing along some boundary-pushing new products to share with ATSA visitors!

They also specialise in manual and power wheelchair prescription, complex seating needs, power assistance, alternative seating, walkers and strollers. You’re very welcome to chat with one of their clinicians if you have questions about these too.

Motum partners with a wide range of brands, including (but not limited to!): Sorg, Wolturnus, Aria, Panthera, Quantum, Quickie, Glide, Rifton, Neatech, Spex, Jay, Seating Matters, TriRide, Batec, MyWam, Josi and more!

www.motum.com.au

NATIONAL TRADE SUPPLIER

Stand 136

National Trade Supplier (NTS) is a Home Access & Safety Solutions Provider. NTS work with Occupational Therapists across WA to provide for their clients including Veterans, NDIS participants and the general public. Products and services provided are bathroom modifications, ramps, rails, bidets, non-slip treatments, door widening, home modifications, security lighting, lever taps, hose reels plus many others.

www.nationaltradesupplier.com.au

NDIS WORKER SCREENING

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Worker Screening Check (Check) is a compulsory screening strategy for people who work in risk assessed roles for registered NDIS providers. In Western Australia, the Screening Unit operates within the Department of Communities.

The NDIS Check is a mechanism that helps NDIS providers determine that individuals providing support and/or services do not present an unacceptable risk of harm to people with disability.

Whilst compulsory for those working in risk assessed roles for registered NDIS providers, NDIS participants who manage their own funding can request workers who provide support and/or services to obtain an NDIS Check at their discretion.

Further information about the NDIS Check can be found at ndiswsu.wa.gov.au or by calling 1800 225 558.

www.ndiswsu.wa.gov.au

NEEKI DESIGNS –THE WONDER SHEET Stand 258

The Wonder Sheet (WS) is a unique style of fitted bed sheet owner Dominique Sanday designed for her dad who had Parkinson’s disease. Turning over and getting in and out of bed was becoming difficult for him. It’s all because of the satin panel, which is under your shoulders, back and hips.

People with other mobility issues tried the WS and got the same result; Increased mobility, more independence and less effort required.

Please come and see their display and Dominique will show you how it works.

Turning over independently with less effort is now possible.

www.thewondersheet.com.au

OTTO BOCK AUSTRALIA Stand 10

All around the world, the Ottobock name stands for high quality and technologically outstanding products and services. With 50 sales, service subsidiaries, and export activities in over 140 countries across the globe, they are constantly in close contact with their customers.

Otto Bock Australia delivers quality, innovative mobility solutions. From paediatric through to geriatric, the Human Mobility product portfolio addresses a broad spectrum of needs across a wide range of age groups. Working with their distribution partners, they aim to deliver industry leading advice, support and service to patients, their therapists and institutions.

“Quality for life”, the quality of life enjoyed by the people who use Ottobock products every day.”

www.ottobock.com

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY AUSTRALIA Stand 222

Occupational Therapy Australia is the peak professional body representing the interests of occupational therapists across Australia. The association has over 12,000 members and aims to support, promote and represent the profession of occupational therapy as a key component of the allied health sector in Australia. Occupational Therapy Australia’s vision is that people and communities are engaged in occupations that bring meaning and purpose to their lives, fostering health, wellbeing, participation and inclusion.

www.otaus.com.au

Exhibitors

PACIFIC VISION INTERNATIONAL AUST

Stand 86

Pacific Vision International provides a range of quality and innovative assistive technology for people with low vision and blindness. They are a leading provider of hardware and software for blind and sight impaired technology users. All of their products are backed by extensive warranties, with their Freedom Scientific products designed and assembled in the USA, the HIMs range manufactured in South Korea and their Rehan Electronics range of products manufactured in the Republic of Ireland. They take pride in being able to provide you with quality products at competitive prices.

With over 100 years of combined experience in the field of low vision and blindness they are able to use their knowledge to ensure that they provide you with the best equipment solution for your leisure, education and working needs.

www.1lowvision.com

PARA MOBILITY

Stand 54

Para Mobility is Australia’s leading Aquatic Disability Equipment provider and Manufacturer of Assistive Technology enabling safer moving and lifting of diversely abled Australian’s. NDIS Registered, Australian Made & Owned their specialist team can draw on years of experience to provide advice & guidance on:

• Pool & Spa hoists

• Aquatic wheelchairs

• Car Access hoists (no vehicle mods)

• Ceiling Hoists, Adult Change Tables

• Accessible Bathrooms

Contact on 1300 444 600 or sales@paramobility.com.au

www.paramobility.com.au

PARAGON MOBILITY

Stand 112

Paragon Mobility is the Exclusive Australian Distributor of several leading Assistive Technology Brands. Boasting a portfolio of Ki Mobility Manual Wheelchairs and seating, Raz Design Mobile Shower Commodes, Ride Designs Seating and Positioning, Therafin Accessories and Freedom Trax Off Road access devices, and a Nationwide Dealer Network, Paragon is here to assist. Drop by their stand and check out what’s new.

www.paragonmobility.com.au

PATIENT SUPPORT SYSTEMS

Stand 90

Patient Support Systems is Australia’s most innovative active air therapy company. For over 12 years they have designed, developed and supplied cushions and mattresses that not only prevent and heal pressure injuries but achieve this in the most comfortable and supportive way possible. TheraCloud overlays and mattresses auto connect to secure cloud servers allowing patients and carers alike to take control and monitor their own care as well as respond to any online alerts. Their Alliana seat cushions, and mobile day chairs are the only air active support seating available with Bluetooth control from any iOS or Android device.

Visit their stand and see how these latest systems can make a vital difference in wound care.

www.patientsupportsystems.com

Exhibitors

PERFORMANCE HEALTH ANZ

Stand 141

Performance Health - live life to the fullest Manufacturer and distributor of leading mobility and ADL brands Days and Homecraft. Days has empowered personal mobility for over half a century and Homecraft, established in the 1940s offers the most extensive selection of daily living aids including bathing, toileting, kitchen & homecare aids available. Days and Homecraft were built with the spirit and belief that each carefully crafted product will empower you to lead your own life.

Performance Health also represents some of the world’s leading Neurological Rehabilitation assistive technology brands including Saebo, AbleX and Rehabtronics, ELink and Tactee.

www.performancehealth.com.au

PERMOBIL AUSTRALIA

Stand 172

Permobil is a leading manufacturer of power and manual wheelchairs, who have continued to innovate for individuals for over 50 years. Be sure to speak with one of their experts on their stand to have a demonstration or test drive a Permobil wheelchair or power assist device.

www.permobil.com.au

PRIDE MOBILITY PRODUCTS

AUSTRALIA & QUANTUM REHAB

Stand 190

Pride Mobility Products® is the world’s leading innovator and manufacturer of personal mobility products.

Their family of brands includes the Jazzy® brand of power chairs, Go-Go® Travel Mobility, Pride Scooters, and Pride Power Lift Recliners. It also encompasses Quantum Rehab®, a leader in complex rehab power chairs with the iLevel® power seat elevation technology, Q6® Series of power bases, TRU-Balance® 3 Power Positioning Systems, and Q-Logic 3 Advanced Drive Control System, as well as Stealth Products®, the foremost manufacturer of positioning components.

www.pridemobility.com.au

QUANTUM RLV

Stand 78

Since the early 1980’s, Quantum has been providing services and products to people who have Low Vision or Blindness. They have grown to be the largest supplier of Assistive Technology in Australia through a dedication to finding the right solution for every individual and providing the support and training services needed to make them successful.

Quantum supplies Assistive Technology solutions o the education, corporate and government sectors, as well as to the growing population of older Australians who are losing their vision due to conditions such as Macular Degeneration, Cataracts and Glaucoma etc.

www.quantumrlv.com.au

REBOUND WA Stand 131

Rebound WA is a charitable association assisting Western Australians living with physical disability to lead fuller, more active and more connected lives. Their aim is remove barriers – both physical and mental – so people with physical disability can have the same sport and recreation participation opportunities as everyone else.

Rebound WA can help with: Finding a sport or activity to participate in that suits your ability, Adapted sports equipment and how to access them from NDIS and grants, Accessibility of facilities for sport and recreation, and much, much more!

If you have a question about sport and disability, Rebound WA can help!

www.reboundwa.com

SANA LIVING Stand 92

Sana Living provide award winning Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) for people living with a disability who are wanting greater independence, comfort and choice. Their team work closely with NDIS Participants who are looking to explore their eligibility for SDA; guiding them through the process and connecting them to Support Providers.

The clever design of their SDA homes, villas and apartments enables greater opportunities for individuals to be more independent, and to connect with others. Known for combining unparalleled accessibility with luxury, the high quality and style of their various dwellings, set a benchmark for all SDA across Australia.

www.sanaliving.com.au

ROCKY BAY Stand 216

Rocky Bay has been empowering people to realise their true potential since 1938. They are more than your approved provider – they are friends, collaborators, and motivators. Their unique partnership approach is deeply human focused and family oriented, where their job is to work alongside you to make decisions with you (not for you).

At Rocky Bay they understand that to help you achieve your goals, they need to make the most of every second together. With a longstanding history of being reliable, accountable, honest, and professional, their team is committed to ensuring everything goes to plan.

www.rockybay.org.au

SCANNING PENS Stand T5

Scanning Pens is the exclusive supplier of the C-Pen range of reader pens. These smart pens scan printed text and converts the text to speech, reading the words out to the user. The pens help those with reading difficulties such as dyslexia, autism, ADHD, processing issues etc and those with a low reading or literacy level.

The pens are used in schools, libraries and workplaces and recommended by speech pathologists and OT’s.

In 2022 the ReaderPen was named Australia’s Best Assistive Technology Product of the Year in the Australian Disability Service Awards.

www.scanningpens.com.au

Exhibitors

SLEEP ELECTRIC Stand 90

Sleep Electric is home to WA’s largest range of adjustable beds, specialist mattresses and lift chairs. You can view and try their range, either at their new showroom in Jandakot or with their mobile showroom where they come to you. Sleep Electric range of adjustable beds and specialist mattresses are world class and can offer the right pressure care for your needs. They are registered for NDIS and HCP and are happy to meet with your OT’s to select the right products for you. They are also able to deliver to most regional locations. Call 08 94100895 to book your obligation free demonstration today!

www.sleepelectric.com.au

SUNRISE MEDICAL Stand 30

Sunrise Medical Australia’s daily goal is to improve the lives of people by developing innovative, high-quality products designed to promote independent and involved lifestyles. They pride themselves as being a global leader of a wide range of rehabilitation and mobility products including manual wheelchairs; power wheelchairs; standard and customised seating; pressure cushions; positioning systems; electric mobility scooters and everyday living aids. Their Family of Brands include Quickie, Zippie, Leckey, Breezy, RGK, JAY, JCM, Whitmyer, Sterling & Switch It.

www.sunrisemedical.com.au

SUPERYOU TECHACCESS YOUR WORLD

SLEEPTIME Stand 133

Sleeptime is an Australian owned and operated, family orientated company. They pride themselves on providing the highest quality bedtime products in all of Australia. From adjustable beds, to naturally permeable sheets and pillows, they’ve got you all tucked in. The Sleeptime Mattress was developed with one purpose in mind, to ensure a great nights sleep

Each and every Sleeptime product is carefully designed and manufactured to their stringent quality standards. Sleeptime pride themselves on having the highest quality adjustable beds & mattresses in all of Australia.

www.sleeptime.com.au

Stand 42

Superyou Tech provides top quality and innovative assistive technologies Australiawide. Their range of advanced AT has been selected by their highly experienced clinicians for quality, durability and competitive pricing. Their focus is on providing the best possible advanced AT to assist NDIS participants. And they do it fast –because they don’t believe in making you or your clients wait.

Superyou Tech support you with a seamless ordering system, fast delivery and the information and advice you need to recommend the right tech for every individual. Connect with their advanced AT consultants today.

www.superyoutech.au

SURGICAL HOUSE Stand 94

Surgical House is a local WA family-owned supplier of Healthcare Consumables & Equipment with over 40 years’ experience in the WA wholesale and retail markets. Their experienced customer service team take pride in utilising their expertise to provide advice tailored to the needs of each individual customer. They can assist you to find the right product at the right price and we are truly the one-stop-shop for NDIS & Homecare consumables, equipment and assisted technology items. They can also provide you with your NDIS Consumables quotes free of charge to assist with NDIS review and plan meetings.

www.surgicalhouse.com.au

TABTIMER Stand 64

TabTimer™ supplies over 100 reminder devices to help people keep medicines, nutrition, hydration, toileting & personal care tasks on-time using assistive technology & assisted listening devices. TabTimer supplies; timers, electronic pill boxes, automated pill dispensers, vibrating watches & clocks, talking watches & talking clocks, doorbell signallers, alerting devices, designed to help people remember medicines, personal care tasks, or assist with daily living requirements.

www.tabtimer.com.au

what is important to them. When there’s no product that does exactly what you need, a TADWA custom solution is often the answer. From minor modifications to complete customisation, they provide advice, education, assessment, support and innovative collaboration.

Their Occupational Therapists and technicians work with thousands of people every year, listening and asking questions to find out what is important and how they can help add value to clients lives. They work with the individual and their support network to understand their needs and can recommend any changes or equipment that may assist them to live safely with independence and dignity.

www.tadwa.org.au

THE BACK AND NECK BED SHOP

Stand 76

The Back and Neck Bed Shop consultants are specifically trained to assist you with any queries you have. They are a registered NDIS provider and an experienced aged care provider. They are here to help, whether you are in the medical profession, a clinician, a carer or client.

Being a local WA owned and operated company, with years of experience and a bricks and mortar presence, the team at Back & Neck shop is small enough to truly care and assist you in your journey, yet big enough to offer the items you need from Australia’s leading brands.

TADWA Stand 70

TADWA are about helping older people, people with disabilities and their carers do

Whether you are wishing to make a purchase on some else’s behalf or you are ‘plan’ managed or self-managed (NDIA), they can answer your questions and supply you with your order in an efficient, timely manner, cost effective manner, helping reduce anxiety and stress levels which often appear at this most important and sensitive of times.

www.backandneck.com.au

THE MOBILITY STORE

Stand 126

Empowering Your Independence. The Mobility Store team prides themselves on offering the most comprehensive selection of mobility aids and equipment available, all designed to make your daily life easier and more comfortable.

With large and inviting showrooms located in Perth and Melbourne, you can browse a huge range of products and test them out to find the best solution to keep you active and independent. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff provide personalised advice and guidance to help you make the right choice for your unique needs.

www.mobilitystore.com.au

THE REHABILITATION CENTRE

Stand 256

The Rehabilitation Centre are importers and distributors of high-quality assistive technology and rehabilitation devices. They are the Australian agent for:

• Alber

• SMOOV

• THERA-Trainer

• CheelCare companion

• Gigantex Carbon wheels

www.therehabcentre.com.au

THERM-OZ SHOWERS

Stand 113

Thermostatic showers have been used in the UK and many European countries for 35 years. Therm-Oz Showers have made

that possible now in Australia by getting the Australian standard in to the watermark scope and plumbing code. Thermostatic showers remove the risk of scalding by keeping a constant safe temperature. No sudden hot or cold spells if other appliances are used at the same time.

Simple to operate with a simple ¼ turn twist of the right handle, helping with independence and assisting carers because the temperature will not fluctuate. If someone has a standard 2 tap manual shower, a licenced plumber can change over to this system with no plumbing or tiling alteration in 1-2 hours.

A quick solution an OT can recommend, and change people’s lives. Assisted technology for showers is here.

www.therm-oz.net.au

TIMOTION TECHNOLOGY AUSTRALIA

Stand 228

TiMOTION is an industry-leading provider of electric linear actuators and supporting products. Their team specializes in innovative and customized solutions for manufacturers of industrial, furniture, and medical equipment. They pride themselves in providing the best possible solutions to each and every one of their customers.

At TiMOTION, they know that any problem can be solved with the right technology. Customizable electric linear actuators are used to enhance applications that hydraulic and pneumatic systems just don’t fit. As your business partner, TiMOTION aims to provide the highest quality, customizable components at competitive prices.

“We believe in what we do and the products we create. We are TiMOTION.”

www.timotion.com

Exhibitors

TOPLINE CLOTHES LINES

Stand 120

Introducing TopLine Intelligent Indoor Clothes Drying Lines, Australia’s best system for safe and effective indoor drying. Their new and innovative automatic drying lines are perfect for simple, sleek and efficient clothes drying inside your home, using only a fraction of the energy of a traditional clothes dryer. Built to last with aviation aluminium, TopLine clothes lines can hold up to 35 kilos of garments and comes with various options, including LED lighting, heaters, fans and sanitising UV lamps for dependable drying year-round.

All their drying line functions can be operated remotely, able to be lowered and raised from the ceiling of an indoor or protected outdoor area any time. They also come with an additional bedding rail that can be lowered down and extended out to allow to for hanging of bedding and larger items.

www.toplineclotheslines.com.au

TRIONIC AUSTRALIA

Stand 4

TRIONIC AUSTRALIA is a NDIS registered provider supplying premium Swedish outdoor walkers with 9-inch supersoft tyres or large 12 or 14-inch air-filled tyres. Free AT Advisor trials are available Australia-wide. Their products promote safe, secure outdoor exercise and enjoyment.

The Walker models have a synchronised steering system and torsional frame flexibility to ensure all wheels maintain connection with the ground. Their off-road capable Trionic Veloped has a patented front climbing wheel. All models have all-terrain hub brakes and a frame made from oversized 6061-T6 aluminium. Trionic Australia offer a 10-year guarantee (parts subject to normal wear excluded).

www.trionic.com.au

UNICARE HEALTH

Stand 182

Unicare Health is Australia’s leading provider of assistive technology, and a major equipment partner to hospitals, disability and aged care providers. They are a valuesdriven team committed to improving quality of life through the intelligent use and clinical application of assistive technology. Through small and impactful actions such as our #safeseniors community initiative and #stopthepressure clinical education program, they enjoy making a positive difference in supporting people with disabilities and healthcare challenges. The foundation of their market leadership is built on 35 years of clinical expertise, quality products, and delivering values of ‘more than care’ in everything they do.

www.unicarehealth.com.au

VERVE OT

Stand T2

Verve OT are a boutique provider of Occupational Therapy clinical and training services. They deliver training for OT’s Australia wide on all things NDIS and clinical topics. They are highly regarding for their knowledge and expertise in the NDIS space, assisting other OT providers to provide competent and quality occupational therapy services.

www.verveot.com.au

VISABILITY

Stand 68

VisAbility is a leading supplier of assistive technology, adaptive equipment, vision aids and aids to daily living (ADL) for people living with blindness or vision impairment in Western Australia. They provide supports to make every day living easier and safer for people with low or no vision. Through Assistive Technology, their Occupational Therapists can support vision impaired clients to:

• Use a smartphone to navigate, stay in contact, browse social media or play games

• Access email, browse the internet or other tablet and computer-based tasks

• Read books, postal mail, read recipes, use cooking equipment and much more.

www.visability.com.au

WHOLESALE MOBILITY

Stand 34

Wholesale Mobility are an Australian owned and operated mobility equipment distributor that offers an extensive range of mobility scooters, electric wheelchairs and more. With exclusive rights to the mobility industry’s most reputable brands, including Solax, Quingo, Kymco and E-Traveller.

www.wholesalemobility.com.au

WILD WEST WHEELCHAIRS Stand 206

Wild West Wheelchairs is a disability equipment provider with years of experience & expertise in the disability equipment sector. Their primary focus is a high level of service towards the end user, therapists, funding bodies and wholesale clients. They supply a range of Manual, Powered and Sporting wheelchairs, as well as a large range of Power assist systems and accessories for both the local and National market.

Wild West Wheelchairs always go the extra mile for every client providing trials & deliveries throughout Western Australia’s cities & rural areas, working with clients to create their personalised equipment package.

www.wildwestwheelchairs.com

Seminar Program

WEDNESDAY 31 MAY 2023

8.15 - 9.00am 45 mins

BREAKFAST SESSION - WATTLE ROOM

Hosted by Occupational Therapy Australia Light breakfast provided Limited numbers

ROOM 2 ROOM 1

9.15am 45 mins

NDIS SESSION Virtiual Presentation

Dr Lloyd Walker

10.30am 30 mins

AT Chat and Assistive Technology Mentoring Service

Kristy Harper, Innovation and Growth Manager iLA

11.30am 30 mins

Parenthood with vision loss

Sinead Bryant, Occupational Therapist, Visibility and Emmanuel Lee, Senior Officer for Assistive Technology, Visibility

1.00pm 45 mins

Paediatric Panel Discussion

2.15pm 30 mins

Ride a bike or take a hike

Andrea Espei, Head of Training at Schuchmann Reha / Germany

3.15pm 45 mins

Supporting children safely for travel, addressing postural support needs in available special purpose car restraints

Jamie Cockle, Clinical Educator, Medifab

Optimising a wheelchair: using the technology to ensure ongoing success

David Fagan, Director, Motion Specialties & Paragon Mobility

Toileting and special needs: where to start?

Lori Potts, Physical Therapist, Rifton Product and Training Specialist

Managing behaviours of concern through wheelchair interventions that allow for sensory expression and enhance participation

Lauren Hunter, Director of Clinical Services, Linds Rehabilitation Equipment

Levelling Up

Lauren Farrell, Occupational Therapist, Indigo

Bums, Bowels, and Bladder: Plane Travel and Things to Consider for Wheelchair Users

Tracee-lee Maginnity, Clinical Services Specialist - Permobil APAC

Assistive technology for the bariatric client –what are you forgetting to consider?

Annette Terranova, Clinical Educator and Trainer, Unicare Health

THURSDAY 1 JUNE 2023

8.30 - 10.00am 1 hr, 30 mins

BREAKFAST SESSION

Mat Evaluation 101 for Wheelchairs

Skills training – tips, tricks and advice from what I have learned along the way

Amy Bjornson, Clinical Director, Sunrise Medical

ROOM 2 ROOM 1

9.15am 45 mins

10.15am 30 mins

TGA

Amanda Craig, Director – Devices Post Market Reforms & Reviews Section

11.00am 45 mins

Why we should all be talking about the shoulder

Tracee-lee Maginnity, Clinical Services SpecialistPermobil APAC

12.15pm 30 mins

SPECIAL EVENT

Adaptive Clothing Fashion Show (near registration desk - all welcome to attend)

1.00pm 45 mins

Deep dive into alternating air mattresses

Alexandra (Ally) Lavalle-Smith and Ankita Peter, National Training Manager and Training and Development Coordinator NSWAidacare

2.00PM 30 mins

Stand up for independence

Maryann M. Girardi, Clinical Education Specialist, Altimate Medical, Inc.

Use and useability of personal alarms

Linda Tran, Principal Consultant - Clinical Excellence Indigo

TD Pilot: eye control for the iPad

Amy Litton, Link Assistive

Postural Care:

The rise of therapeutic positioning in the lying posture around the world

Anna Goldsmith, Director, Simple Stuff Works Associates Ltd and Joana Santiago, Head of Clinical Education at Medifab

What you can do to get a job for 1 million

Australians with disability

Kane BlackmanChief Executive Officer, Good Sammy Enterprises

When manual is no longer enough – power add on considerations

Tracee-lee Maginnity, Clinical Services SpecialistPermobil APAC

More independence, ability and freedom for all.

With 40 years of experience and expertise, gained as the Independent Living Centre of WA, Indigo really can help in achieving more independence at home and in the community.

Indigo’s experienced health professionals help people of all ages to choose and access equipment, devices or technology and provide services to support their independence and wellbeing.

Indigo Disability Services

Allied Health Services

(Speech Pathology and Occupational Therapy)

Home Modifications assessments

Devices and Equipment Communications Solutions

Services to schools specialising in Augmentative and Alternative Communication

08 9381 0600 indigosolutions.org.au

Indigo Aged Care Services

National GEAT provider under geat2GO. Approved provider under Commonwealth Home Support Program.

Allied Health Services

(Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy)

Home Modifications

Goods, Equipment and Assistive Technology (GEAT)

NED – Assistive Technology

Indigo operates the National Equipment Database (NED), Australia’s largest and most comprehensive assistive technology one-stop-shop, offering information on more than 20,000 products and the option to click to buy selected items.

www.askned.com.au

“Mable saved my career”

Para-athlete Julie Charlton

with disability. I want to feel comfortable with the support workers I work with. The platform is so good, it makes you feel safe to pick that person you want on your journey. I haven’t looked back since,” Julie said.

Julie has a team of five support workers on Mable and they support her in different ways. “I have two support workers for community support, like going out for movies, theatre, basically experiencing the life I want outside of sports. The other three support workers are for sports, so they help me get to trainings, set up my equipment, things like that. It’s a really good mix of people and a great team.”

Julie is particularly happy with one of her support workers from Mable, Sonali. “She was a light for me. She made me comfortable and happy in my own skin. She brought so much of myself out of me in terms of confidence. Without her, I would not be as confident as I am today, I was lucky to meet her.”

Julie Charlton is a 22-year-old para-athlete and disability rights advocate. From her sporting journey, two experiences stand out for Julie. The first was at 16, when she competed in the World Junior Championships in Prague. “It was all self-funded, my mum was my team manager, and my cousin was the chef de mission. I was the only Australian representative,” she said.

The other was the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. “Watching those athletes do what they do was mind-blowing. Basically, my entire sporting career had led up to it. I had put in 17 years’ worth of preparation.”

Getting to the Games was quite a challenge. “I was struggling to get

support workers to help me get to my training ahead of the Games.” That’s when Mable came to her rescue. “I wouldn’t have got to the Games without Mable, who basically saved my career.”

“The support workers I found on Mable picked me up from my house, drove me to training sessions, helped me set up my chair, to do the things I needed to do to get to the Games. I used them all the way up to the week before I left. “I wouldn’t have been the athlete I am today without Mable.”

Julie found Mable through an online search and TV ads. “I found it really appealing because I wanted to find support workers I could gel with. That’s important to me as a person

For Julie, it’s important that her support workers be “queer-safe”. “As a queer person I want to feel comfortable in my own skin and the person I’m with. The other thing I look for in people is that either they love sports or have a passion to learn about and try new things, new ideas.”

To anyone looking for support on Mable, Julie’s advice is to take your time, read the support worker bios and you will definitely find someone.

“Don’t be scared to use a platform like Mable; it’s there to help you, to make sure you are comfortable choosing who supports you, that’s why I love it so much.”

If you are ready to find support, visit mable.com.au and start connecting with independent support workers today.

Julie Charlton with one of her students

Travelling has never been easier with the Go Go Endurance Li

The Go Go Endurance Li is a convenient travel companion that provides effortless transportation for people who are always on the go. This four-wheel scooter can be effortlessly disassembled into five portable pieces, making it easy to store and transport in the trunk of a car or on a plane*.

This is especially useful for people who travel frequently and need a reliable mode of transportation.

What sets the Endurance Li apart from other travel mobility scooters is it’s 16AH MAXX Lithium-ion battery pack. So, what’s so good about lithium-ion batteries?

• They are 60 per cent lighter than a standard battery pack.

• They have a 31 per cent longer range than standard battery technology so you can travel up to 23km on a single charge, giving you plenty of freedom to explore your surroundings and reach more

destinations. This allows you to discover new places, without having to worry about running out of battery power in an unfamiliar area.

• They charge 140 per cent faster than standard battery packs.

The Endurance Li has a weight capacity of 147 kg and comes standard with the option of a 43 cm x 43 cm or a 50 cm x 45 cm foldable seat. Each unit includes a set of Garnet Red (matte) and Euro Grey coloured panels, front and rear CTS suspension, an LED headlight and an ergonomic wraparound delta tiller to keep wrists comfortable over longer travel times.

“The Endurance Li batteries have a great range, sustained performance, and since these batteries are light, disassembly and reassembly is easy,” Pride Mobility Products Australia, sales and marketing director, Matthew Herbert said.

Overall, the Go Go Endurance Li is a highly recommended, reliable mobility scooter that provides a safe and

comfortable mode of transportation for people who don’t want their mobility limitations interrupting their active lifestyles.

To view the full range of Pride Mobility scooters along with the Go Go Endurance Li visit www.pridemobility.com.au/scooters or view on the PQ365 app, which is available to download on the App Store or Google Play.

Pride Mobility will be at the Perth ATSA Expo on Stand #190 from May 31-June 1, 2023.

An optional 8AH lithium-ion battery pack is available for travel, which is airline-compliant and has an 11.5 km range.*

*Transport of this item on commercial aircraft is subject to federal regulations and airline policy. Consumers should consult their airline prior to their flight to ensure the Go Go Endurance Li and its lithium-ion battery are permitted.

Transform your manual wheelchair with PAWS

In recent years, manual wheelchair power add-ons have been gaining popularity. Power add-ons provide you with the freedom to enjoy the benefits of your manual wheelchair while offering the option of added power assistance when required.

manual clamping. This technology eliminates the need to use upper body strength to connect it with your wheelchair.

No wheelchair modifications or add-ons are required, all you add is the PAWS. The two handlebars’ set-ups allow control along with the capacity of speeding up to 10km/h.

The PAWS is a clever way to go with functions to suit your needs. Easy to use with disc brakes, powerful multifunction headlamps, waterproof rating and the driver display showing data like speed, distance, time, power, driving mode and other mode settings.

For a full charge, the lithium-ion battery only needs up to five hours of charging. On a full charge, you can reach a range of up to 40km, depending on terrain, driver weight and model chosen.

Aidacare’s power assisted wheelchair system, PAWS, is the ultimate companion for your manual wheelchair, allowing you to be independent when getting to work, shopping or on a trip.

Traditional manual propulsion of a manual wheelchair can put strain on shoulders and upper body leading to challenges in the future.

Engineers, ergonomists and therapists have worked together to create a product on the market, combining ergonomics and functionality with good looks.

Seize your daily opportunities with the 12-inch front wheel PAWS City, designed primarily for city travelling

on smoother roads. With a 1m turning circle, it is great indoors.

Go around town or along a forest trail with the PAWS Cruiser. The big 16-inch drive wheel eats up the bumps for a smooth ride.

Discover new places with PAWS Tourer, with its long wheelbase. The big wheel overcomes roots and uneven terrain. With a 20-inch wheel and 4-inch fat tyre, you can easily get to and is designed primarily for off-road purpose and not afraid of sand, gravel or stones.

Attaching to your wheelchair

Our exclusive patented auto lift and clamping technology is the only system in the world that does not require

Accessorise your PAWS according to your lifestyle with a carrier bag or basket, tyre inflator and batteries. A durable packing carton and inserts are provided to protect the PAWS from damage during transport. We recommend wearing a helmet while riding PAWS.

PAWS will be for you what you want it to be – combining pleasure with function.

To arrange an obligation free trial of the all-new PAWs system, contact our Complex Rehab sales team on: 1300 133 120. For more information visit: www.aidacare.com.au/paws

Visit the Aidacare display on Stand #146 at the Perth ATSA Expo from May 31- June 1.

WHILL allows you to live the life you aspire to with its impressive power, smart technology, and superior handling.

To view our Link EXCLUSIVE offer scan the QR code and SAVE UP TO $300

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From international chef to working in childcare

Adam has cooked food all over the world. From restaurants in England to eateries in India and is accustomed to pressure.

Catching a few lazy trout by Lake Mulwala was certainly a change of pace. That’s where the family went last year, to Yarrawonga on the New South Wales/Victoria border. It was a nice break from the ups and downs of Melbourne under Covid.

The family of five spent their days exploring the mountains, the country pubs, and the reservoir.

Adam rode along the top of the 100-year-old weir on his small portable scooter. The kids spent hours by the pool, while he and his wife relaxed. The weather was beautiful, and the food hearty. In short, it was the quintessential Australian family holiday.

Reflecting on his early life as a chef Adam has cooked in almost every style, but his favourites are the flavours of the subcontinent and South-East Asia, “coconut curries and dals”.

Now he has left behind the heat of the kitchen and works 30 hours a week at a childcare centre, introducing children to the wide world of cuisine. He helps them manage a modest vegetable garden of cucumbers, zucchini, spinach - all the usual suspects that kids would otherwise like to avoid.

His kids are his passion. “Their dreams are my dreams,” he said. “Just like he did at their age, they throw themselves at their sport and don't show any signs of wanting to pursue their own culinary odysseys, but Adam doesn't mind.

Adam has multiple sclerosis and uses a walker and a portable Luggie scooter to

get around. The walker is for day-to-day things, and the scooter is for day trips and more ambitious expeditions. It lets him go 15k in a day, often outpacing his kids who can’t always keep up. It handles the terrain well, footpaths, grass and sand, plus it’s easy to get into the car. He often goes to nearby Chelsea beach and surrounding parks. The family likes to dodge the Melbourne winters, perhaps to Bali or to Fiji, where once they took a speedboat up the river and saw villages in the mountains. Adam said that in the future they will visit Queensland again, but he doesn’t seem too fussed about the specifics of the when and the where.

He just knows it will happen.

“I’ve always liked to see how other people live. It’s like a shock to the mind, a good one,” he said.

Update on the Occupational Therapy Australia Conference

By Libby Callaway

The 2023 Occupational Therapy

Australia (OTA) 30th National Conference and Exhibition1 will be held in Cairns, North Queensland from June 20 with the OTA Education Day2. I am pleased to be co-facilitating a half-day session at the Education Day, with occupational therapy (OT) educator colleagues Kim Charlton (University of Adelaide), Emma Ashcroft (Curtin University) and chair Moushami Kadkol. The title of this session is “Contemporary disability and aged care practice in Australia: Opportunities and challenges for occupational therapy educators and students”. This discussion with OT educators from across Australia is timely given the ongoing allied health workforce challenges, and practice demands, that our near and new graduates and OTs more broadly face across these two sectors.

Each year, the Australian government spends over $22 billion in funded supports for Australians with disability in receipt of the National Disability Insurance Scheme3, and another $7.8 billion on community-based aged care 4. There is also significant additional spending through injury insurance schemes and public healthcare systems 5. Yet the allied health workforce demand is at its highest in decades, with many jobs going unfilled and the existing workforce often reporting high workloads and KPI demands, as well as levels of stress and challenge 6. This is particularly relevant for our near and new graduate allied health workforce.

I deliver a final year ‘preparedness to practice’ lecture with Monash University near graduate OT students each year, and below are some of the key strategies (and resources) we discuss in these sessions:

1. Source professional supervision and mentoring within your workplace but also consider options external to it, if needed. The Victorian Government Department of Health released a range of implementation and training tools for their allied health capability framework for working with people with complex needs, and these tools include interactive supervision planning tools7. Occupational Therapy Australia offers student membership and a various special interest groups that allow for peer mentoring and knowledge exchange, or ways to connect with other occupational therapists for mentoring8

2. Understand and consistently apply your professional code of ethics9, and practice critical reflection using this guidance that may be achieved through self-reflection or via structured supervision and mentoring session, but keeping this code of ethics in focus is vital to good professional practice.

3. Draw on existing resources to guide practice, including considering your role in competition and consumer law protections10, and business integrity and legal requirements in your area of practice11

4. Put in place strategies to manage stress, burnout and compassion fatigue, including considering strategies for work-life balance, using mindfulness techniques and considering self-care strategies both within and outside of work12

As OT educators and practitioners, we want to enable and retain OTs entering practice over a career in the profession.

This year’s workshop at the biennial OTA education day is an important part of our national strategy to do so.

Associate Professor Libby Callaway is the President of the Australian Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Association (ARATA) and a registered occupational therapist who works across the Occupational Therapy Department and the Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living Research Centre at Monash University.

1. https://otaus.com.au/events/occupationaltherapy-australia-30th-national-conferenceand-exhibition-2023

2. https://www.otausevents.com.au/otaus2023/ education-day

3. https://www.ndis.gov.au/about-us/ publications/quarterly-reports

4. https://www.gen-agedcaredata.gov.au/ Topics/Spending-on-aged-care

5. https://treasury.gov.au/programs-initiativesconsumers-community/niis

6. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/workforce/ health-workforce

7. https://www.myalliedhealthspace.org/alliedhealth-professionals/my-allied-health-space

8. https://www.otaus.com.au/memberresources/interest-groups

9. https://otaus.com.au/publicassets/735094933865-ed11-9475-005056be13b5/OTA%20 Code%20of%20Ethics.pdf

10. https://www.accc.gov.au/system/files/ Joint%20ACCC%20NDIA%20NDIS%20 Commission%20letter%20-%20January%20 2021.pdf

11. https://www.arata.org.au/public/33/files/ Publications/AT%20Industry%20Joint%20 Statement%20OCT2022.pdf

12. https://nam.edu/wp-content/ uploads/2017/03/Burnout-Stress-andCompassion-Fatigue-in-OccupationalTherapy-Practice-and-Education-A-Call-forMindful-Self-Care-Protocols.pdf

Telstra has blocked over 230 million scam text messages in a year

One year ago, in April 2022, Telstra announced our SMS scam blocking feature. Since then, Telstra have continued to block millions of scam messages, with a staggering 230 million blocked over the year. That’s around 775 malicious texts blocked every minute.

What scams does Telstra block?

Often these scams will pretend to be a legitimate postal notification or toll notice and ask you to provide payment details to have your package delivered or toll account covered.

If a suspicious text message makes it through to your phone, including any that appear to be from a company you might be expecting contact from, always verify its legitimacy before clicking through, and especially before making any payments.

How SMS blocking technology works

Keeping you safe with cleaner pipes

Telstra SMS blocking system is just one way we try to protect you from scams – with hundreds of millions of scam calls and emails across BigPond email accounts also blocked by our systems.

For customers the good news is that there is no need for you to do anything to activate any of the protections under its Cleaner Pipes program. These are automatically turned on across the network and we won’t call you or send you an SMS or email asking you to click a link to access them.

When Telstra first rolled out our scam blocking tech in April 2022, the nation was under siege from the FluBot malware. FluBot has since been shut down, but as soon as one criminal scam enterprise closes, another takes its place. Such is the nature of scams.

Other scams Telstra have caught in the fence include impersonation scams designed to trick you into providing personal information or even your financial data (like your credit card numbers) to a fraudulent website. Similarly, Telstra are seeing an increasing number of bank scams, fake toll notice scams, and fake job offer scams come through its network.

With increased postal delivery notifications, road toll notifications and new gadget cloud account creations over the holiday period, it also expects an increase in scam SMS attempts.

The capability under the bonnet is complex and evolving and has to continue to help outsmart scammers but in simple terms, we are applying knowledge of what scam text messages look like to block them at the network level. If an SMS message looks suspicious, Telstra will block it before it reaches you. Automatic machine scanning picks out suspicious content such as malicious links and combines this with other patterns and characteristics.

You can learn more about how to spot and protect yourself from scams on: www.telstra.com.au/scams or at www.scamwatch.gov.au.

• Blocking around 10m scam calls per month

• Blocking almost 23m scam SMS per month to customers

• Blocking tens of millions of malicious domains by criminals monthly, and

• Blocking almost 332 million incoming scam and unwanted BigPond emails every month. That's 38 per cent of all inbound emails.

Scam messages blocked have included lures to install malware on your device, invitations to hand over your personal details to scammers, and impersonation scams requesting financial data. Each one of these 230 million blocked scams reduces the chance of Australians falling victim to a scammer. It’s also a reminder that scammers are persistent and target just about everyone with a mobile number when it comes to their campaigns.

An example of a scam text pretending to be from myGov.

Brazier Mobility – Creating Independence

Brazier Mobility (formerly known as Les Brazier Special Vehicles) is a premier modifier of bespoke solutions for the disability and ageing market with over 30 years’ experience.

As a registered NDIS provider Brazier Mobility work collaboratively with occupational therapists, physiotherapists and health professionals to find the optimal solution that provides the greatest independence. The team are always on hand to chat about your requirements.

It has two large, modern workshops to complete the modifications, from hand controls, 4WD conversions,

seating options, scooter/wheelchair hoists, lowered floor options to full bus fit outs. All modifications are carried out to Australian Standards and independently certified.

We are about to receive a shipment of the popular VW Caddy5. This exciting delivery will allow us to complete your modification in a timely fashion. If a Kia Carnival or Hyundai Staria suit you better, talk to us about how we can assist in the purchase of your vehicle.

Our Research and Development team constantly look at what new technology is in the market, and work tirelessly to find a solution.

From our perspective it is the little things that make a big difference and at Brazier Mobility we take pride in the ‘little things’ that we incorporate into our vehicle modifications that ‘make the difference’.

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

We can provide the Independence, BUT you choose how to use it.

Call Brazier Mobility on: 1800 BRAZIER (1800 272 9437) Or email: enquiries@braziermobility.com.au

No matter w hat level of your disability, you CAN r e gain some of your Independence. Choose fr om the extensive r ange of Vehicle modifications available fr om BRAZIER MOBILITY and feel fr ee a gain.

Come to or call BRAZIER MOBILITY for :

*Expert advise about choosing a Vehicle suitable for modification

*A full r ange of innovative, pr emium quality pr oducts &

*Modifications customised to suit your individual needs

BRAZIER MOBILITY sour ces the most up-to-date technologies fr om ar ound the wor ld and has the expert ise to modify them if necessary, in r esponse to customer feedback.

All modification and pr oducts compl y with all mandatory standar ds and ar e designed with YOUR health and Safety in mind. So w hatever the level of Mobility support you need, BRAZIER MOBILITY can suppl y the best “Tr ansport ” solution.

VW Caddy 5

Hyundai STARIA

Hand Controls for the Love to Drive!

For many, the ultimate feeling of freedom is the ability to get behind the wheel and go on a road trip, explore this wonderful country of ours and leave the mundane day to day life behind…for a while at least!

Total Ability is passionate about your Love to Drive! If there’s one thing that drives us, it’s the knowledge, from lived experience, on what being able to drive independently can do for someone with a disability.

Satellite Accelerator

Total Ability’s flagship product is the Satellite Accelerator. It is accompanied by a complete range of Fadiel hand controls for all abilities but let’s showcase the Satellite Accelerator.

It is the hand control used by Chris Astill in the Shitbox Rally from Rockhampton to Hobart (pictured). Chris was able to

continue his participation in the rally post injury, less than a year ago, and confidently learned to drive again using his hands with the Satellite Accelerator. (See Cover Story this issue.)

Two-handed driving provides more precise control of the vehicle and a safer feel for the driver and definitely a must when driving on bumpy and rough terrain in the outback. Users also report a substantial decrease in fatigue compared to other control options.

This means more hours on that road trip without getting tired.

Love to Drive? So Do We. 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.

Reach out to our team via phone: 1300 858 410 or https://totalability.com.au/contact-us/

Freedom Motors welcomes a new member to the team

Freedom Motors has announced the newest arrival to its evergrowing team, James Hewitt, appointed South Australian state manager. Freedom family members will now have access to a team member in their own state.

Hewitt will assist with demonstrations, enquiries and training on the modifications, providing South Australia with the choice of the highest quality modifications and safety standards

He brings over 30 years’ experience in the mobility and vehicle modification industry to his role which means that clients will be in good hands for all their modification requirements.

Hewitt will have one of the company’s new modified Hyundai Staria's for on-site demonstrations and to discuss

all your requirements to provide you with the best solution.

Customers in South Australia will now have Hewitt available to do a hand over and training on using your newly modified vehicle which is just another service Freedom Motors can deliver in the state.

Give him a call on: 0487 864 668 or email: james.h@ freedommotorsaustralia.com.au to arrange a demonstration or to discuss servicing options.

Not in South Australia? Call Freedom Motors Australia head office on:1800 672 437 and we can put you in touch with your state manager to arrange a consultation to help get you back to travelling and living the life that you choose. ‘We deliver Freedom, you just choose the destination.’

Bringing ‘Joy’ through art, meet Wurundjeri artist Mya

Taking on commissioned artworks through QArt Studio and Gallery, Mya said she finds satisfaction and pleasure when someone purchases her artwork from the gallery.

“I did a commission for a lady earlier in the year. When I gave her the painting and told her, the meaning behind the art and my inspiration, she cried.

”And that’s why I do it. I want to help people. My goal in life is to help them and make them feel better because that’s what art did for me.”

Mya Wilson is a 19-year-old QArt Wurundjeri artist who is inspired by her culture to bring joy through her art.

Since she was 12, Mya has been exploring art, but it wasn’t until she participated in an Aboriginal art program when she was 16 years old that she found her talent and passion for storytelling through art.

“I didn’t know until I did the art program the impact that I can make. I love every artwork I do, not only because I can share my culture, but because of the person’s reaction when they see it,” Mya said.

Experimenting with different textures in high school, she began her artistic journey by testing modelling paste with

paint and water colours and mixing sand and acrylic to express the beauty of nature, and the Australian bush.

“I wanted my art to evoke emotion, it is colourful and tells a story.”

Now in her third year as an artist at Endeavour Foundation QArt Studio and Gallery in Kew, Victoria, Mya works alongside talented artists of all abilities and receives artistic direction from her colleagues and studio supervisor, Gordon Hayward.

“The skills I’ve gained here at QArt are incredible. It’s the little conversations that we have every now and then,” Mya said. “I love coming to work, being in an environment where I can be myself, and a place where I can be professional. I’m living a dream.”

Sharing what the future might hold, Mya said she’d love to see more people support Indigenous artists and artists with disability.

“I look up to a few Aboriginal artists. It’s amazing what they do, and how they tell the story of our land. We still have a long way to go for reconciliation, but we can take small steps by supporting Indigenous artists by buying and promoting their work,” Mya said. “The same goes for artists with disabilities.”

Endeavour Foundation QArt Gallery and Studio is a purpose built, professionally operated studio located in the Melbourne suburb of Kew, where artists are given support and artistic direction by qualified managers to enable them to reach their potential.

QArt is located at 188 High St, Kew VIC 3101.

... “we can take small steps by supporting Indigenous artists by buying and promoting their work”

Mya Wilson – “living a dream”

Accessible Telecoms Project servicing the community

The Accessible Telecoms Project is Australia’s independent and up-to-date guide to mainstream and assistive telecommunication products that may be suitable for people with disabilities, or seniors.

T his is a free service that can be used by anyone, and is specifically geared towards people with disabilities, seniors, their families and carers, service providers and advocates.

Accessible Telecoms is an initiative of the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) to address the lack of consolidated, independent, and up-to-date information about accessibility features of telecommunications equipment available in Australia.

T he website provides information about the useful features of phones, tablets, accessories and apps that may assist people in using their devices.

S ome examples of what you can find at Accessible Telecoms include:

• Home phones with loud ringers, volume control or big buttons

• Hearing aid compatible mobile phones

• Emergency pendants

• Wheelchair mounts for mobile phones and tablets

• Eye gaze accessories, switch buttons, prosthetic equipment, and other alternative controls to phones and tablets.

• Apps to caption media, transfer voice-to-text, zoom or enhance a screen

• Augmentative and alternative communication apps.

T heir helpful team is also able to provide advice about how to get the most out of your communication devices and can help you find settings and features that may assist you.

It can also recommend local or virtual training organisations that offer classes on mobile phones, tablets, computers, the internet and other aspects of digital life.

The Accessible Telecoms Project is supervised by ACCAN’S inclusion team and has been developed with the input of an advisory committee formed by experts on senior and disability matters and it welcomes feedback and suggestions for the service from people with lived experience with disability.

Simply Helping Silvia to achieve her NDIS goals

After booking the tickets, coordinating the event and support, the time arrived to attend. Silvia and Lauretta enjoyed the process of getting dressed up and looked amazing. Lauretta’s authentic and caring nature as a support worker ensured that Silvia felt reassured and in control throughout the whole journey of being transported to the theatre then participating with a large crowd of people to enjoy the musical.

Silvia said, “my support worker communicated with me throughout the whole day asking questions about how I was coping and giving me lots of options so that I felt more secure”. The musical was a wonderful event which Silvia thoroughly enjoyed. Silvia said “one of the most important things is feeling like I can participate in dayto-day activities. Having achieved this gives me the confidence to look beyond and try bigger and better things. With the right support anything can be achieved”.

Silvia’s next goal is to attend the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show.

Simply Helping Central and Northern Melbourne would like to congratulate Silvia on her wonderful achievement and thank Lauretta for supporting Silvia to achieve her NDIS goal.

Our community support workers and the team at Simply Helping Central and Northern Melbourne, are committed and passionate about supporting NDIS participants achieve their goals.

A recent example of this was a wonderful moment achieved by NDIS participant Silvia, who was able to attend ‘Mary Poppins the Musical’ with her support worker Lauretta. We are so proud on behalf of Silvia, to share her achievement given this is a goal that Silvia has explained to

be “not just an everyday need but something that is beyond simply going out into the community”.

In the lead up to the event, Silvia who is living with a psychosocial disability and can experience anxiety with getting out into the community, was able to independently book her own tickets and coordinate attending the event with Lauretta. This was a significant achievement for Silvia given the unfamiliar territory she was able to successfully navigate, whilst demonstrating choice and control.

Visit our website simplyhelping.com.au to learn more on how we can assist you and your loved one.

There are disability service providers and there is Aruma

It ’s easy to see why Aruma is one of Australia’s leading disability service providers. But what makes them truly like no other is that they live by the words ‘You. First’. It’s a simple, and powerful, philosophy. No matter what, their customers always come first.

A ruma’s Home and Living services include Supported Independent Living (SIL), a NDIS support you receive in your home of choice. It’s available 24 hours a day and can be shared with other housemates.

We give you a hand with day-to-day tasks like cleaning, cooking, personal care, going to appointments, taking medication, learning new hobbies and catching public transport. We can even help match you to the right home and flatmates too.

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is NDIS fund ed for people with very high needs who need specialist housing. While SIL funds cover support in a customer’s home from someone like their support worker, SDA funds the physical home in which their services happen.

A ll SDA homes have been carefully designed with your accessibility, comfort and care in mind. This includes accessible features to help you live more independently and have better access to supports in your own home.

A ruma is working closely with local SDA developers and providers to offer accessible, high-physical support properties from April 2023 in multiple Queensland locations, including Mackay, Cairns and Pallara.

T hese properties are brand new and fitted with the latest in assistive technology like automated electric bedroom doors, automated blinds, automated lighting throughout, a fully electric adjustable kitchen bench with integrated cooktop, zone-controlled air conditioning, backup battery power and a state-of-the-art emergency response system and more.

A ruma is one of Australia’s leading NDIS service providers. They are the trusted partner and mentor to over 5000 adults and children with a disability throughout the east coast of Australia.

Contact the Aruma team on: 1300 538 746 or enquiries@aruma.com.au or

Online safety training for disability - minimising risks in the digital space

people, the training also provides information on:

• Understanding current online safety risks

• Enhancing connection, trust and partnerships with your child

• How to set up a cyber safe home.

The project, Online Safety Training for Young People with Disability and Their Support Networks, was funded and supported by The Office of the eSafety Commissioner.

Interaction's Online Safety Training is self-paced and freely accessible on Interaction’s website at www.interactionservices.org/onlinesafety.

Interaction Disability Services has launched free online safety training to empower people with intellectual disability and their support networks to adopt safe online practices.

Equipping this vulnerable group with skills for identifying and overcoming online risks is vital for creating an inclusive and equitable online space. With this training, people with disability will be able to participate in the rich, expansive world of the internet while being supported to mitigate the online risks that disproportionately harm them.

Developed in collaboration with ySafe, leading experts in cyber safety training, Interaction's Online Safety Training is available for free on a custom-built learning platform which includes accessibility features such as AUSLAN interpretation, closed captioning and audio-visual media to help users navigate and control their experience to suit their needs.

The program was developed in conjunction with sector experts to

create specifically tailored content and much-needed practical resources for people with intellectual disability to safely use and access the internet. Members of the disability community were consulted throughout the development of the training, enabling the voices of those with lived experience to help shape the learning outcomes every step of the way.

The training spans eight modules; five tailored to participants and three towards parents, carers and educators. Each module addresses the specific challenges faced by this community in the digital world. Topics include:

• Recognising and managing cyberbullying

• How to have safe online relationships

• Protecting personal private information

• Understanding image-based abuse

• How to improve your digital wellbeing.

To equip parents, carers and educators with the tools to support young

Interaction Disability Services is a not-for-profit, NDIS-registered organisation committed to supporting and empowering people living with intellectual disability.

Interaction works with individuals and families across NSW including participants with intellectual and/ or physical disability, and families and carers of people with disability. Our support services are available to people of any age, ability, need or background. We value diversity and understand that no two people are the same.

Interaction offers supported accommodation programs, support coordination, behavioural and allied health services including behaviour support and psychology, as well as community access and selfcare supports. For information on how our team can support you to achieve your goals, call: 1300 668 123 or visit our website: www.interactionservices.org.

We live what we do

As a registered builder and wheelchair user, owner Scott has a unique perspective on how to create the best solutions to assist people with disabilities in their day-to-day life.

VIP Access specialises in disability renovations for homes, having transformed numerous bathrooms and kitchens and installing homes with ramps and widening of doorways including adding automation to be accessible for the homeowner.

VIP Access works closely with a wide range of clients, ranging from private clients, My Aged Care, DVA and NDIS clients.

O ur process for major modifications is to attend your home for a site consultation alongside your occupational therapist if required to discuss the works. We then prepare

a concept plan for you to go over, and once you are happy with the concept plan, we prepare a quote and detailed scope of work.

O nce works are approved, we prepare a detailed fixtures and fittings list with items that will be installed in your renovation and arrange a pre inspection meeting to go over works. You are involved in the whole process and a trade schedule is provided before work commences so you know what trades are coming each day. We try to make the process as smooth as possible.

VIP service areas of South-East Queensland for home modifications. We not only complete major modifications but also minor modifications including, but not limited to installing grab rails, ramps, bidet installation, stair lifts, pool hoists and rails and Therm-Oz installations.

Contact VIP Access at: enquiries@vipaccess.net.au or call: (07) 3807 4309 to discuss how we can assist you in making your home accessible.

Stepping into independent living

For 23-year-old Bradley, who lives with an intellectual disability, moving into his new two-bedroom Minda Home & Living Support (SIL) apartment has opened fantastic opportunities, but most importantly, provided him with independence. He has also been able to continue living with housemate Jack, with whom he developed a strong friendship at another shared accommodation.

“I enjoy living with Jack he’s a good mate. We have lived together before, so we get along, have the same interests, and know each other well. I am happy that we get to share an apartment again, Bradley said.”

Minda is the largest not-for-profit intellectual disability service provider and employer in South Australia, providing home and living services, housing, children’s services, short term respite accommodation, supported employment, day programs, community support and allied health

therapy. It celebrates its 125th anniversary this year.

Minda chief executive Dr David Panter said Minda’s SIL program is tailored to client’s individual needs, ranging from round-the-clock assistance, occasional support to attend appointments, go shopping, assist with preparing meals, or help with cleaning. “At Minda, we focus on individual wellbeing, striving to create an inclusive community where people with an intellectual disability are valued for themselves and their contribution to the wider community,” he said.

T hrough a comprehensive process, clients are assessed to ensure their support aligns with their NDIS funding and that they are matched with the right housemates. They get to view the property and meet prospective housemates to ensure the best outcome for all. From planning to moving and settling in, Minda is there at every step.

Shared supported living accommodation is available in a mix of new and refurbished housing across Adelaide’s southern suburbs from Pasadena to Blackwood, west to Seacliff and North Brighton, and as far south as Old Reynella. Minda currently has a portfolio of three and fourbedroom properties, with or without gardens, available to people who have SIL funding in their NDIS packages.

If you would like to find out more information about Minda Home & Living Support (SIL), visit: mindainc.com.au or call: 1800 164 632.

Community Support Inc branches into palliative care

Community Support Inc (CSI Inc) has added Palliative Care to its range of one to one in - home and community based support services. The service will be delivered by a team of 15 experienced carers who have undergone specialist palliative care training to prepare them to meet the needs of clients who are at the end-of-life.

C SI’s services will include clinical support, social and domestic care and will typically comprise cleaning, gardening, daily living support, transport services, personal hygiene and assistance with meals. Some of the team have prior palliative care experience and service duration will range from short visits to 24-hour support, depending on requirements.

C SI Inc CEO Sue Krake said the organisation’s palliative care division will hit the ground running.

“ We have partnered with a leading palliative care program that will refer clientele to us at a rate of approximately 15 per month,” Krake said. “We will also begin promoting our services to the general public who are already familiar with our services and expect to grow our Palliative Care division quickly but sustainably through referrals.”

C SI’s palliative care team will work hand-in-hand with clinicians, and family or support teams of the client, to ensure that their sometimes complex and ever evolving care needs are met.

“Supporting someone at end of life is invariably a team effort and our team has been trained to deliver the highest standard of service in this very sensitive setting,” she said. “There are many moving parts in palliative care. Care requirements can change daily and dealing with family uncertainty and grief is all part of the job.”

T he CSI palliative care team have also been trained to recognise and respond

to care requirements associated with the physical and/or cognitive decline of the client.

“Some might say it is a challenging area of care service delivery, for obvious reasons, but our staff who work in these roles, know they are fulfilling an incredibly important area of need in one of the most important times of life.”

Every day, CSI provides personalised, tailored support services to almost 500 people of all ages living with disability, autism spectrum disorder, mental illness and complex health conditions, as well as older individuals who need support at home.

hello@csisa.org.au www.csisa.org.au

www.csisa.org.au

CEO Sue Krake and general manager corporate services, Marc Sodomka

The first Vietnamese cooking class for NDIS participants

Rosies Love and Care cooking class for NDIS participants is not only about improving skills, but also an opportunity to discover different cultures through their cooking experiences.

Rosie’s Love and Care is the first provider in Victoria to facilitate a cooking class for Vietnamese cuisine, which is in addition to holding regular cooking classes for preparing home meals.

The Vietnamese cooking class focuses on enhancing sensory and learning skills, by allowing participants to experience different type of herbs and flavours such as Vietnamese mint and Thai basil. Stimulating the sense of smell, taste, and touch helps improve cognition and learning.

From well-known Pho to spring rolls and Vietnamese crispy pancakes (Banh Xeo), participants also discover the variety of traditional herbs and flavours associated with Vietnamese cooking.

Learning to wrap a spring roll, swirl a crispy pancake and choosing different herbs and vegetables, help to keep participants engaged and active during the cooking class.

Rosies staff are well trained to keep close supervision of participants to ensure their safety during the cooking sessions. Staff are also trained to encourage participant engagement during the class to support them in following instructions.

Having a cooking class adds to the excitement and curiosity which keeps participants coming back.

Artful - an art prize with a difference

the six categories. Winners receive a gift card valued at $1000 and mentoring sessions with an arts professional. They will also have their artwork featured in an online gallery.

Online art workshops in a new pilot program

However, Artful isn't just about winning. There will also be eight online art workshops run by professional artists through Accessible Arts as part of a pilot program. The aim is to provide workshops online for free beyond the pilot and hopefully for years to come.

Ainsley Carpenter manages Achieve Australia’s community participation programs in Sydney and Casino in the Northern Rivers of NSW. She believes this program provides the opportunity for people to express themselves freely.

The Artful Art Prize competition is a collaboration between Achieve Australia and Accessible Arts based on their shared passion for social inclusion.

Achieve Australia CEO Jo-Anne Hewitt said, the Artful Art Prize aims to break down barriers by creating a space where everyone can express themselves creatively.

”Artful is a celebration of the diversity and creativity of our community, and we want to encourage everyone who enjoys creating works of art to consider entering no matter their ability or experience,” Hewitt said.

“Personally, I am a knitter and could enter in the textiles category. Someone else may enjoy painting, ceramics, photography or creating mixed media. We can't wait

to see what people submit and to share some of the entries on the Artful website.

“The competition is open to all Australian residents who are not professional artists. We are promoting Artful in a range of ways including through disability service providers. For example, a person we support at Achieve can enter and so can one of their family members or their favourite support worker,” she said.

“Inclusivity is the foundation for a life that’s well lived. The opportunity for self-expression, connection with community and wellbeing are at the heart of inclusivity, and that’s exactly Artful is designed to do,” she said.

“I think art is subjective and there is no better way of self-expression. It doesn’t matter if you use language in other areas of your life or not as art acts as a great communicator. So, in a way, this competition levels up the playing field and provides everyone with an opportunity to express themselves.”

Judging will take place in September with a winner announced for each of

Submissions will be accepted from August 1, 2023. To make the process as accessible as possible, people entering are asked to photograph their work and submit online. All the details about how to enter are on the website. Go to: artful.org.au

“The competition is open to all Australian residents who are not professional artists”

The Artful Art Prize is a new competition that aims to build a national community around a shared love of creativity in a fun and social way no matter where people live, their age or their lived experience.

the Artful art prize

artists, drawers, mixed media artists, potters, photographers and quilters wanted

annual art prize

2023

to register go to artful.org.au

Laura and Ben Robinson celebrated their 12th wedding anniversary this year. They met at Ability Works in 2004 where they both work and where love blossomed. The Melbourne couple spoke to Kymberly Martin about love and marriage.

This relationship began with chats at work, a brief courtship followed by a quick marriage proposal, a long engagement and finally a wedding.

“We got chatting and started going out, initially as friends and it progressed from there,” Ben said. Their first date was to Fiji with a couple of ex-teachers who organised trips for people with disability, at the time both had come out of previous relationships.

After dating for a month Ben asked Laura to marry him and she said yes straight away. As to why there was no hesitation, Laura’s response was equally as quick, “him…his gentle nature appealed to me,” while Ben admitted he just “loved her smile.”

The proposal was followed by a fiveyear engagement. Ben’s explanation for this was that “some couples have short engagements and often short marriages” while according to Laura “we just wanted to be sure.”

Laura admitted her mother was tentative (about the marriage) as she had not at this stage met Ben. And when she did? It took a while…I think she was being protective.”

Laura has been described as ‘a feisty and determined young lady’, a comment she said probably came from her mother, “but yes that’s definitely me.”

She has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair most of the time but can walk a short distance with a stick. Ben has a mild intellectual disability and had learning difficulties at school and paperwork needs explaining to him sometimes.

Laura’s biggest difficulty is public transport which she said is not getting any easier especially for wheelchair users, “despite what we hear and read”. “We need ramps on railway platforms, not just for wheelchair users but for people with prams and assistance dogs too.”

Laura&BenRobinson

Not quite married at first sight…but it came close.

A productive working life

Neither encountered any issues when it came to employment and started working straight from school. Laura has worked for 22 years at Ability Works as a processor with e-tags for cars, trucks and commercial vehicles, and Ben is a storeman responsible for handling pallets in the warehouse.

Asked about the NDIS and the answer from Laura was hardly surprising, “challenging, with too much red tape.”

stick go into the cabin locker. “I manage to hobble up the skinny aisles with my stick to the seat.”

And they are “truly madly and deeply AFL fans”. Laura sports two AFL tattoos, one on her back and another on her shoulder. And there are no complaints when it comes to attending games with easy access seating in a wheelchair bay at the MCG. “It’s the same at the movies we can always sit next to each other with Laura in her wheelchair,” Ben said. They regularly catch up socially with other married couples and go out for lunch.

A support worker accompanies Laura to the gym and is available to take the couple out for lunch and also prepares meals as neither are keen cooks. As neither drive it is public transport or taxis but there is a strong family network on hand for attending family gatherings and other outings.

She said employment for people with a disability has its difficulties, but the opportunities are slowly improving. As for stories about questionable treatment some are alleged to receive from their employers, she was quick to add that “she would not stand for this, and neither would my mother!”

The couple have high praise for Ability Works that employs 140 people with a disability across a number of industries including manufacturing and plumbing. “They are a fantastic organisation to work for and treat everyone equally,” Ben said.

Looking ahead

Ben who is 47 and Laura 44 love travelling with plans in place for a family wedding in Bali in August and have enjoyed numerous trips in Australia and overseas.

Airline trips are becoming easier too. Occasionally they have encountered problems mainly at check-in when Laura arrives in her wheelchair with the “oh s…” moment from staff, “even though you have advised earlier it does not always get through, but the situation is usually sorted fairly quickly.” Her foldable wheelchair goes into the hold and the detachable foot ramp and

Laura goes to the gym three times a week, doing weights to maintain her upper body strength. Ben’s reaction to a question about going to the gym produced giggles from Laura. “I get enough exercise in my job and like to walk everywhere,” he said. In other words, no gym for Ben but he is a keen 10-Pin bowler and participates in league games at the local club. “It’s his hobby,” Laura said.

They admit they are lucky to have found each other, live in a nice apartment and clearly make a good team. There have been occasional challenges but too few to mention. “Life is good”, Laura said. One gets the impression that these are two very determined and strongminded people.

As to the future Laura plans to sky dive and Ben wants to visit London and see Big Ben…with Laura chiming in with: “Ben is time and calendar obsessive.”

“We got chatting and started going out, initially as friends, and it progressed from there”

“truly madly and deeply AFL fans”

LiveBig – a specialist allied health provider

We provide services face-to-face in the Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth metropolitan areas and remotely through telehealth Australia-wide. Our experienced clinicians travel to client’s homes and community venues including schools. If we are unable to meet face-to-face, we also provide telehealth services through our telehealth platform. Telehealth can also help to maintain progress between inperson visits.

Our comprehensive approach addresses domains of resilience, and our services are tailored to the unique needs, preferences, and goals of everyone we support.

Our services include:

• Speech Pathology

• Psychology

• Occupational Therapy

• Physiotherapy

• Positive Behaviour Support

• Counselling

• Social Work

Our experienced clinicians are passionate about empowering people with disability to live their best lives. We carefully select and train our clinicians to ensure they have the knowledge, skills, and empathy needed to provide the highest quality care.

We are committed to ongoing professional development and provide our staff with the resources and training they need to ensure they are up-todate with the latest best practices in disability support.

LiveBig is a specialist allied health and assessment provider for people with disability. Our goal is to empower lives and simplify the process of accessing your support services – at home, in the community and via telehealth.

We pride ourselves on being a registered NDIS provider focused on high quality supports and transparent with our services. From your initial enquiry to the supports we deliver, we are with you every step of the way, ensuring you are on track and achieving your goals.

If you or a loved one require disability support services, we encourage you to contact LiveBig today by visiting the website at www.livebig.com.au or calling 1300 390 222

We look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.

Every day is an opportunity to live a little bigger.

Our team provides specialist allied health and assessment services for people with disability, and on an NDIS plan.

With locations across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth including telehealth services for rural and remote regions, we are there where you need us.

We provide occupational therapy, speech pathology, psychology, positive behaviour support and physiotherapy. We empower people to live their best lives.

The social media diet

By Tommy Trout

“Hot take: social media is wrong more often than it is right. Ok, not exactly a hot take in 2023… or even 2013 for that matter.

However, according to new research from the University of South Australia when it comes to health and fitness ‘fitspo’ (fitness inspiration/influencer) accounts it holds true. The study ran an audit on the top 100 fitness accounts on Instagram and found that more roughly two-thirds of these accounts posted information that was not credible, was potentially harmful or simply unhealthy.

Wait. How can Instagram posts be harmful? They found that following ‘fitspo’ accounts that spread the wrong information, hyper-sexualised content or show extreme body types resulted in poorer mental health for the people looking at it. Simply put: the more

you surround yourself with this type of content the lower your opinion of yourself becomes. As the adage goes ‘comparison is the thief of joy’.

That’s not to say that there is not any utility following fitness account pages on Instagram and there’s still one-third of these accounts that are posting good content so don’t go unfollowing everyone and everything just yet. You might argue these extremely fit body types are aspirational and are giving you something to aim for. But for most of us there are potentially years of hard work between us now and where we want to be. So, lets swap the aspirational and inspirational for the instructional, and swap them for accounts that are all about where you are now.

My advice: Instagram is full of people on their own personal fitness journeys they are sharing with the world. People

going for daily walks, learning a martial art, beginning in weightlifting. It may seem reductionist, but following people on a fitness journey who have a similar body type to you can be really uplifting and informative. Seeing someone who looks like you can make consistent, achievable progress that can get you off the couch much faster than the 2 per cent body fat influencer experimenting with cryotherapy and selling you detox tea.

I have started viewing my social media feeds like a diet and consider everything I follow, is it healthy or junk food? Like junk food, the unhealthy fitspo accounts are designed to get your attention and can be fun to the consumer but leave you feeling crappy. Alternatively, healthy posts might be a bit rawer or simple, but leave you feeling good and genuinely inspired.

Choose wisely! Together, WeFlex

Planning a winter holiday?

Now that summer is a distant memory, and we settle into the colder days ahead it’s an ideal time to start planning for a winter getaway. Perhaps more so than other times of the year, winter is a favored season for many to take a break from their regular routines and venture near, or far for a bit of an adventure.

W ith that in mind, the team at Leisure Options has prepared an exciting travel program for the 2023 winter season that is brimming with small group holiday options. This year’s program features a variety of destinations and travel options catering to those seeking to escape to a warmer climate or simply wish to enjoy a break away closer to home.

At no surprise to many, Queensland and the Gold Coast features prominently as travelers from the southern states seek to take advantage of the warmer sub-tropical climate offering pleasant, sunny days.

The theme parks, animal attractions and picturesque sandy beaches are also a strong drawcard for many.

O ther northern destinations featured in the Leisure Options Winter Program include Townsville and Magnetic Island, Port Stephens, the Sunshine Coast and a visit to the Gympie Music Muster.

T he travel team are also aware that many of their travelers love to embrace the colder weather and accordingly find that their ideal holiday features destinations requiring a few extra

layers and perhaps a scarf and beanie. Such holiday opportunities in 2023 include Marysville and Lake Mountain, Christmas in July, Ballarat Winter Wonderland and the Echuca Winter Blues Festival.

If any of these winter escapes sound like an appealing holiday for you feel free to contact the team at Leisure Options to start planning your next exciting getaway.

PH: 1300 363 713 or 03 9646 0666 or mail@leisureoptions.com.au

Great holidays and travel for people with disabilities

With more than 30 years’ experience in both the travel and disability industries, Leisure Options is Australia’s only national award-winning, accredited travel agent specialising in supported travel for the disability sector.

Focus on providing holidays that allow maximum choice, loads of fun, high staffing ratios, commitment to individual needs, and a supportive holiday environment

• Choice of either group or individualised touring

• Respite care offered in a stimulating and fun-filled environment

Over 80 departures annually to local, national and international destinations

Passionate, energetic, and professional tour leaders with extensive qualifications and a world of experience

• Registered service provider with the NDIS

We support the

For more information call 1300 363 713 or visit our website www.leisureoptions.com.au

Exercising made easy

Easy Exercising is a diverse community-based facility providing a specialised exercise program where there is no pain. Instead, laughter and friendly chat as you exercise.

How? The answer is its unique, powerassisted rehabilitation machines that help you exercise and move with ease to get you started on achieving your individual goals.

W hen you experience Easy Exercising, you will find integrity, courage, respect and understanding.

You can rely on our service, knowledge and experience. At Easy Exercising, we listen and want to get to know you. We are passionate about helping you create a brighter future.

We supervise each participant to ensure they are exercising in the correct position, using muscles without putting pressure on the joints, with

a controlled method of combining positioning and exercising.

Sounds too good to be true? We would like to invite you to come along and have a FREE trial session at your closest Easy Exercising clinic.

Your free trial session will help you understand how the power-assisted machines work, and help you get a sense of the close-knit community that we foster. You will be safe and not be intimidated, with no judgement and be with the same like-minded people. You won’t be forced into any program, just offered solutions with guaranteed results.

Here’s what Donna said after starting at Easy Exercising:

“I was diagnosed with MS and then found Easy Exercising. Once I attended my free trial, I was hooked and could not start quickly enough. As I struggle with heat and change before and after exercise, the air con is on all the time, and I have no issues with heat.

"My life has changed for the better since attending Easy Exercising,” she said.

“I have surprised my medical team, support workers and my family with improvements. Mobility has improved along with my confidence and engaging with others with lots of encouragement from the community, staff and support. Staff are extremely accommodating, and I can have a laugh with others which has helped reduce my anxiety and low self-esteem. I would suggest to others to just give it a try as there is no pressure or hassle at all.”

Easy Exercising have locations in Brisbane. Find your nearest location at our website. Visit easyexercising. com.au to book a free trial session at your nearest clinic.

NOTE: we also provide opportunities for respite care with a difference, via our weekends away. Register your interest at: https:// easycommunityservices.com

NDIA REGISTERED

RebeccaEvans

The Power and the Passion

By Roy Skillen

There are few sports in the world that can produce the unbridled passion that was seen across Argentina after their Lionel Messi powered World Cup win in Qatar. No matter what is going on in the world, soccer can unite people from different religions, upbringings, communities and races. Unfortunately, the opportunity to get out on the field and feel the joy, frustration and immense connection that goes with winning and losing as a

unit has not been available to everyone. However, this restriction of access has changed in recent years with the rise of more all-abilities versions of the sport now offering programs and competitions around the world.

While the Paralympics is currently dominated by blind soccer and the seven a side game developed for athletes with cerebral palsy and other neurological disorders, it seems there

is another version of sport ready to compete for the limelight.

Powerchair Soccer is a modified version of soccer for power wheelchair users. It is played in a gymnasium on a regulation basketball court with a ball that is 1.5x the size of a traditional ball.

There are two teams of four players, including the goalkeeper. The players dribble and hit the ball around the

court with a specially designed bull-bar that is mounted onto the front of their powerchair.

But far from being just an access point for more people to take part, powerchair soccer is a fast paced, dynamic sport with serious athletes that have the desire and skill to push their perceived limits. The likes of Momo Ghelami from France, Jon Bolding from England and Australia’s Abdullah Karim have taken the game to another level in recent years and are inspiring the next generation of players to be even better.

And 25-year-old Melbourne City star and Perth native Rebecca Evans is one

of this new generation. Living with a rare neuromuscular condition called Nemaline Myopathy, Bec has shown great confidence in her ability by moving across to Melbourne to chase her dreams of representing Australia. It is here that she has developed herself into one of the best players in the country thanks to good old fashioned hard work and hours of analysing her own performances.

“There are only about 20 of us, with Nemaline Myopathy in Australia,” she told Link. “I use a power wheelchair for mobility, a ventilator to breathe, and require support from others for all aspects of my life. Ironically, despite

the rarity of the condition the first person to get me into powerchair sports was a fellow powerchair sports player also with Nemaline Myopathy. We now play together on the Melbourne City Powerchair Team, which I think is cool.”

Anyone that has seen a powerchair soccer game in full flow will understand the qualities and skills involved to be the very best are far from easy. Like any sport it takes time, patience and lots of practice to play at the elite level. But what does Bec think is the hardest aspect of the sport to master?

“Being able to read the game and other players, especially opposition players. It’s not necessarily something you can explicitly teach, but it does take your game to that level when you know where the ball is likely to go next and what actions an opponent might take next. It’s a skill that I’ve developed through days and days of watching many powerchair soccer match replays.”

With this work ethic has come a tactical understanding and an outstanding ability to read the game that has seen her dominate the local competition in Melbourne, get selected as vicecaptain of the Australia U21 squad at the 2019 Asia-Pacific-Oceania Cup , while guiding her Melbourne City team to the national championships in May and has also put her on the verge of selection to the full Australia Poweroos squad for the upcoming World Cup in Sydney later this year.

But despite her success on the court, running soccer was never a big part of her life and her journey to the top of her sport has taken a bit of a detour.

“It might come as a surprise to anyone who has seen me play powerchair soccer, but I don’t follow the running version of the game. Of course, if I had to pick a team it would be Melbourne City given I play on their powerchair squad and I admire Sam Kerr. It’s been amazing to see what she’s done for women’s football in Australia. She also plays quite an attacking and aggressive game, not afraid to face up to opponents, and I like to think that I bring that to my game too,” she said.

“I first got involved with powerchair soccer in 2018. Since 2016 I was playing a sport called powerchair hockey. But I was frustrated by the limitations placed on me by my disability in the sport.

In powerchair hockey, your ability is limited by how strong your arms and core are, and that wasn’t something I could change. In 2018, I was encouraged by other athletes to give powerchair soccer a go, and I was hooked from the moment I executed my first kick. It very quickly became my favourite sport and my major passion in life. Here was a sport where my disability didn’t limit my skill-level, I could be as good as the best player if I truly put my mind to it and put in the hard yards.”

And the arduous work did not stop when training ended. As her skill level grew, so did her confidence both on and off the court.

“Powerchair Soccer gave me a community of friends who were treading similar life paths to me. It was through seeing other athletes that had part-time and full-time jobs that I knew it would be possible for me to secure employment. I was also inspired to pursue moving out of home by others who I met that were living independently. I took that one step further by moving out of my family home in Perth into an apartment in Melbourne, which I did to advance my sporting career. I also work four days a week for a not-for-profit organisation that helps people with disabilities find accessible housing. But it all started because of knowing others had already trodden that path.”

So, how does she like to relax outside of work and away from the pressure of competition?

“I am an avid concert goer, and love being front and centre to all the best pop concerts and looking forward to Pink coming early in 2024. As part of attending concerts, I am big into advocating for equal access for wheelchair users, including in the general admission and VIP areas. There's nothing quite like experiencing a concert with other super fans.”

Bec also loves watching and attending the tennis and can now attend the Australian Open every year, and recently met Rafael Nadal and witnessed what could possibly be his last match in Australia. She also enjoys playing Nintendo Switch and binging on a good Netflix crime series.

With the sport looking to grow in the coming years, what does the future of Powerchair Soccer look like for Bec and what would her advice be for players looking to give the sport a go?

“I hope Powerchair Soccer also eventually receives the recognition it deserves. It is not currently a Paralympic sport, with the highest level of competition being that of the World Cup. Because of that, it doesn’t receive the same level of funding as other sports for athletes with disability, and many expenses are left to the players to pay out-of-pocket. There is a myth circulating that it is the wheelchairs that do all the work, not the athlete, and therefore isn’t a sport which would qualify for the Paralympics. But I challenge anyone who believes that to jump in a Strikeforce and see for themselves just how hard the sport is.”

On a personal level she admitted it would be quite an incredible feeling to be selected for the Australia squad, and something she has been aspiring to since starting to play.

“Previous World Cup teams have also always comprised athletes from only New South Wales and Queensland, so to make the team from Victoria, and previously Western Australia, would be a first.”

As for those hesitant to give Powerchair Soccer a go, she said: “You don’t know you won’t like something until you’ve tried it. Growing up, I never saw myself as an athlete, and never came close to imagining myself as one day playing sport, let alone sport at such a high level. I would encourage you to get in contact with your local club and ask to jump in a chair and give it a go. You never know, you might find your newest life passion.”

If you would like to start your journey to becoming the next powerchair

soccer star, have a business that would be interested sponsoring the players and the programs around the country or just want to learn more about the sport you can reach out to one of the following organisations:

VICTORIA: Support Your Way luke@supportyourway.com.au

Powerchair Sports Victoria Craig.kilby@psv.org.au

Muscular Dystrophy Australia paula@mda.org.au

QUEENSLAND: Queensland Powerchair Football Association qldpfa@gmail.com

NEW SOUTH WALES: NSW Powerchair Football Association info@nswpfa.org.au

WESTERN AUSTRALIA: Western Electric Sporting Association www.wesa.org.au

SOUTH AUSTRALIA: One Culture Football https://www.oneculturesupportservices. org/powerchair-football-sa

Jason Wright working on a new life partnership

After a spinal cord injury more than 20 years ago that left him in a wheelchair, Jason Wright went through periods of depression and hopelessness. Having turned his life around, he is now working to help others in the same position adjust to their new lives.

The open doors of his light-filled new home at Buff Point on the Central Coast, NSW, are very welcoming. It overlooks sparkling Budgewoi Lake since much of Wright’s early life was

spent on or in the water. He grew up in Newcastle and had an early job driving a charter boat for a dive shop in Port Stephens. He worked on tall ships in Sydney Harbour and whale watching boats and trawlers in Hervey Bay. He represented NSW in the Australian Spear Fishing Championships and has spent hours scuba diving.

In 2001 he started work as a motor vehicle wholesaler for an auction house in Newcastle. The work required a lot of driving to dealerships all over western

NSW to buy trade-ins. It was on one such trip near Singleton, that he had a microsleep just where the road fell away into paddocks. He only remembers hitting a tree and then electric pain running through his legs as he faded in and out of consciousness.

False hope

He was taken first to John Hunter Hospital and then the next day to Sydney’s Royal North Shore. He had suffered a burst T12 vertebra and

needed part of his hip bone grafted into his back. He was in hospital for three months and in Royal Rehab at Ryde for another three months.

A surgeon told him he had every chance of walking again but, when that didn’t happen, he fell into a deep depression. “I’d completely lost the life I knew,” he told Link

As a single dad to his 10-year-old daughter, Tiahn, Wright was also worried about losing his identity as a father. “I was more concerned about my daughter than myself and left rehab a bit early and before learning all I should have.”

Because he wasn’t using the prescribed equipment, he suffered a pressure wound, a common ailment among wheelchair users, which required flap surgery and 100 days lying on his side to allow the wound to heal.

Finding a home for himself and Tiahn, was another challenge and there was a cycle of battles with private landlords to arrange minor modifications to accommodate his needs.

He did business and admin courses at TAFE and applied unsuccessfully for numerous jobs but was not coping and started using drugs as a way of self-medicating to forget his troubles. These were dark times, and he admits that the 16 years after his accident were tough for his parents and daughter too.

Small steps

Eight years ago things slowly started to turn around. Wright was sick of not making progress on any front. “I woke up to myself and started seeing a drug and alcohol counsellor.” And step-bystep he was inspired to make positive changes in his life.

In 2017 he met his partner, Kate, who helped him see his potential. They moved to The Entrance on the Central Coast.

In 2019 after not working for 18 years he applied for a job at Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) as a peer and family support coordinator. Getting that job was another turning point.

He is now one of a team of 11 people all with lived experience of disability. The team, located across Sydney, the Illawarra, Canberra and Perth, share their stories with new spinal injury patients both in hospital and the community.

Working alongside clinicians, the team participates in education sessions on topics ranging from bowel, bladder and pain management; driving after a spinal cord injury; travelling on public transport; sexuality and intimacy; skin care and pressure wounds; wheelchair skills and how to be safe.

“It’s rewarding to help people adjust and avoid making the same mistakes I made and helping them be as independent as they can be.” He wished this kind of support had been offered when he was injured.

“I wouldn’t have gone through the darkness I did if I’d known this stuff.”

He loves the work, despite it taking him two hours in the morning to get ready before driving his handcontrolled Honda CRV four days a week 90 minutes each way to Sydney.

Proud granddad

In his dark days Wright didn’t understand the benefit of playing adaptive sports and is now sailing and mountain biking. Through Sargood at Collaroy, which provides specialist accommodation for people with spinal cord injury, he’s driven 4WD-powered wheelchairs on the beach and tried para-golf and sit-skiing.

The 52-year-old is now a proud dad and granddad to Tiahn and her young daughters. Tiahn lives near Lismore, NSW and they maintain their close relationship on Facetime.

Yet another turning point has been the construction of his and Kate’s new house.

Last year they moved into their home with icare-funded modifications including roll-in spaces and wider doors.

“It feels fantastic to have our own place and to be working again after so long. Life has really taken a turn, and I appreciate it but don’t take it for granted.”

As well as his peer-support job with SCIA, He works online for 12 hours across the weekend as a call taker or dispatcher organising wheelchairaccessible taxis.

And he doesn’t mind his long working week. “For 18 years I’ve known what it’s like not to work. You’ve just got to make your own destiny.”

That’s why, 21 years after his injury, he smiles looking out across the water of Budgewoi Lake with a sense of achievement and joy and Kate is a big part of that joy too.

“Life like this is something I thought would never happen for me. I never thought relationships would work out again. But they do. I just want to age happily and healthily.”

With his grandaughter

Disability Radio Network in urgent need of support

Vision Australia Radio is calling on the community to consider a taxdeductable donation to ensure it can continue to bring information and programming to air for Australia’s blind and low vision community.

T he network’s extensive programming includes newspapers and other publications being read on-air, current affairs, and programs covering blindness and low vision specific topics. Programs range from reading content to interview based offerings presented by and for people living with disability, making Vison Australia Radio unique in the media landscape.

V ision Australia Radio is a vital service for the blind and low vision community across Australia and every dollar that comes through its doors at tax time helps to keep broadcasting across its network of stations, Vision Australia

“Our programming provides access to information through the huge range of newspapers and other periodicals that are read over the air each day. It is one of the only outlets where people who are blind or have low vision can hear programming that not only covers issues that directly impact them but is

produced and presented by others who are blind or have low vision,” he said. “Vision Australia Radio is what keeps them connected to their community.”

Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible and can be made online at www.varadio.org or

PH: 1300 84 74 66. Want to tune in? Find your local frequency or listen online at varadio.org.

Vision Australia Radio is a national print disability audio content provider, offering accessible news and information via radio and podcast.

Stream our live radio services on your smart device or via varadio.org.

Check out our range of disability focused podcasts on your favourite podcast app.

Radio and audio services manager Conrad Browne said.

Luna who was contributing to the children’s radio show ‘Happy Pants’

Pride of place

C arers Queensland celebrated with the LGBTIQ community as part of World Pride 2023 celebrations.

On the Fringe of fun

Joining in the fun at Adelaide Fringe, was Shane Hryhorec, who hosted its most accessible event, the ‘Confession’ pop-up bar, showcasing DJs, dancers and musicians in wheelchairs.

Sunshine Butterflies race to the finish

Sunshine Butterflies Disability Charity held their annual triathlon with three inclusive events - a run, wheelchair ride and a water splash relay.

The Incognito

Art Show

Australia’s biggest and most inclusive art show will be held at the Campbelltown Arts Centre, Western Sydney in mid-July. It raises funds to support collaborative artist at Studio A and The Little Orange that provide professional development for artists with disabilities. Every piece of artwork is sold for $100, and the identity of the artist remains anonymous until after it is bought and there is a good chance that art is by one of Australia’s best-known artists.

aking to the runway Web Accessibility Camp

Westfield Miranda, Sydney collaborated with Autism Mates to host Model MATES that gave people on the autism spectrum the opportunity to have fun on the catwalk alongside professional models.

T his annual camp from VisAbility, Perth was for professionals, developers, designers and anyone interested in finding out about new initiatives in inclusive design.

Jack’s Best Day Ever

by Gabrielle Bassett

This new book is about a mother’s mission to shine a light on diversity and inclusion.

As the mother of a neurodiverse child, Gabrielle Bassett has penned a funny and heart-warming book based on her son Jack, to help create awareness around diversity and inclusion. It is about the blossoming friendship between two children with disabilities, their preferences and how they experience the world around them.

It is designed children to have fun with and read for the entertaining story that it is. Or they can sit down with parents or teachers and have a chat about what it means. Why is Jack flapping his hands? Why is he covering his ears? Why is he eating the same thing all the time? It’s designed to break down that stigma in a fun and inclusive way.

According to Bassett, lockdown was a huge challenge for Jack as he struggled to engage with the online content and couldn’t learn independently. She also realised there was no diversity, no

representation of the whole community represented on her bookshelf.

To order visit: https://www. woodslanepress.com.au/collections/ author-gabrielle-bassett

Enter GABRIELLE15 at the checkout to receive 15% off the price.

What’s On Calendar

MAY:

May 31-June 1: ATSA Independent Living Expo

Claremont Showground, Perth www.atsaindependentlivingexpo.com.au

JUNE:

June 6: Australian Network on Disability National Conference

Sydney Hilton Hotel info@and.org.au

June: 13-16: Disability Leadership Summit

Intercontinental Hotel Double Bay, Sydney www.theleadershipinstitute.com.au/ disability-leadership-summit

June: 16-17: Gold Coast Disability Expo

Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre

www.goldcoastdisabilityexpo.com.au

June: 16-17: Sydney Disability Connection Expo

International Convention Centre, Sydney

www.eventbrite.com.au

June: 21: OT Australia National Conference & Exhibition

Cairns Convention Centre

https://www.otausevents.com.au/ otaus2023/contact

Jack Bassett is 11-years old. He attends St Paul’s College in Kew along with dual enrolment at a mainstream school. His mother Gabrielle has just published a book about having a neurodiverse child, ‘Jack’s Best Day Ever’.

Link sent this Q&A to Jack, who was described by his mother as “kind, gentle, helpful and creative with a sense of humour while school principal Timothy Hemphill said Jack was a “born conversationalist”.

• What do you like most about school? Art

• What do you want to do when you grow up? Digger driver

• Do you have a pet? Dog called Sadie

• Your favourite book? Construction

• Your favourite TV show? Big timber because there’s lots of construction

• Your favourite pastime? Making things What gets your attention more than anything else? Cooking What you don’t like more than anything else? Writing. (Jack returned this Q&A to Link within 10 minutes of receiving it! Ed.)

JULY:

July 17-18: Source Kids Disability Expo

Melbourne Convention & Exhibition

Centre

www.sourcekids.com.au/disability-expo/

July 29-30: Source Kids Disability Expo

Brisbane Convention & Exhibition

Centre

www.sourcekids.com.au/disability-expo/

AUGUST:

August 4-5: Sydney Disability Expo

Sydney Showgrounds, Olympic Park

www.sydneydisabilityexpo.com.au

FOCUS ABILITY

ON