Echuca celebrates people with disability

The local event was organised by a new steering committee made up of representatives from local disability support groups and key community organisations, led by Intereach local area co-ordinator Fiona Brown.

Although some groups had marked the day in previous years, the committee joined forces to deliver a single, united event for the wider community.

Ms Brown said the event was a major success with schools, local groups and community members supporting the day.

“I'm really so pleased with how the community has really got behind such a terrific day,” she said.

“We've had representation from the Echuca East Primary School, 208 (Echuca Primary School and from St Joe's, so that’s terrific.”

As the events MCs, Joel Awty and Josh Cheap welcomed visitors and kept the day flowing.

Attendees moved through various activities, from James McIntyre’s photo booth and a fitness session with Vision Fitness and Support Services to putting with Boys in the Bush, rock painting with Intereach and a range of outdoor games.

The local Riding for the Disabled Association also took part, introducing their newest horse, Sandman, to the community, while the Bamawm Fire Brigade brought Santa with them to spread some Christmas cheer.

Stalls from organisations including Vivid, Loddon Mallee Public Health, Echuca Regional Health, Boys in the Bush, Intereach and Community Living and Respite Services offered plenty for visitors to explore.

A major highlight of the event was guest speaker Martyn Lawrence, who inspired people to keep striving forward.

Vivid’s Silent Voices group also performed a few of their most popular numbers on the day.

Ms Brown said she was grateful to the committee and community for making the day a reality.

“I'd like to thank our committee for making sure that the day was such a positive one, and I’m so pleased our community got behind such a terrific day,” she said.

“We’ll do it differently next year, and I’m excited about that.”