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Shepparton Access launches local celebration for international event

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Kid-ding around: Callum Phyland at the petting zoo. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

‘Tis the season to celebrate at Shepparton Access, though it has nothing to do with a jolly man dressed in red.

International Day of People with Disability is an annual celebration on December 3 to increase public awareness, understanding and inclusion of people with a disability.

Shepparton Access kicked off this year’s proceedings on Friday, December 1, at Emerald Bank’s The Woolshed when participants, their families and community members gathered to enjoy a variety of activities.

The day included a presentation by Australian theatre company Back to Back, followed by a performance from the Shepp Access Showstoppers.

Globally, the United Nations’ lengthy theme for IDPwD 2023 was ‘United in action to rescue and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals for, with and by persons with disabilities’.

A little more simply, that was a call for action to all countries to work towards 17 goals recognised by the UN, including zero hunger, gender equality, and decent work and economic growth.

More IDPwD celebrations will be hosted by the Greater Shepparton City Council this week.

One of them, an inclusive and immersive artistic experience at Shepparton Art Museum, will be held on Wednesday, December 6.

Art for All Day is designed for individuals with intellectual, sensory, and physical disabilities to be engaged through three creative workshops led by SAM art educators and local artist Kody Bothwell.

Then, on Thursday, December 7, council will partner with Public Transport Victoria to host Try Before You Ride.

That will be an opportunity for individuals with a disability to experience different transport options and to boost their confidence.

To reserve your place in one of the creative workshops, visit the SAM website at https://sheppartonartmuseum.com.au/

For further information regarding the Try Before You Ride event, contact council’s access and inclusion officer via 5832 9700 or communityadmin@shepparton.vic.gov.au

Chill out: Joshua Symes enjoys a snow cone. Photo by Rechelle Zammit
Sweet tooth: Maddison Hunt and Joseph Conte gave two thumbs up for the tasty treats. Photo by Rechelle Zammit
Sing star: Melita Tremellen singing True Colours with the support of Shepparton Access chief executive Brigid Herring-Neumann. Photo by Rechelle Zammit
Drum up: Geoffrey Swales never missed a beat. Photo by Rechelle Zammit
Song and dance: Melita Tremellen raises the roof. Photo by Rechelle Zammit
Happy-go-lucky: Sarah Hudson was all smiles while playing alongside her friends. Photo by Rechelle Zammit
Having a ball: A cheerful Bob Burgess entertains the crowd. Photo by Rechelle Zammit
Got rhythm: Keith Lawson stays in tune with his fellow performers. Photo by Rechelle Zammit
Sound of music: Brett Hellyer joins in on the singing and drumming action. Photo by Rechelle Zammit