Persons With Disabilities

Persons with Disabilities

10th December 2009

Young adults at Interchange Outer East joined in sporting events to support International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3rd 2009.

Cricket Victoria invited participants from 'Link', an Interchange Outer East Balance program, to have a hit on the famous MCG during the Australia vs England match of the Tri Nations cricket series which also featured South Africa.

Link Coordinator, Peter Siomos said, "The finest cricketers with intellectual disabilities were representing their countries. The Link participants were escorted onto the MCG and had a game with the Cricket Victoria representatives. Everyone had a blast and really enjoyed their day at the 'G'. Following our hit, we listened to the national anthems and speeches and then settled back to watch some great cricket between Australia and England."

"We finished the afternoon with a free tour of the National Sports Museum. A great day was had by all. Interchange looks forward to continuing its relationship with Cricket Victoria and hopefully we'll have more opportunities like this in the future."

In the second sports event, Eastern Recreation and Leisure Services (ERLS) and the City of Knox organised a sports day to celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Interchange Outer East was involved in the day as participants, sausage sizzle cooks and coordinators.

ERLS, Access For All Abilities, Michele Cutajar said, "Lunch would not have been as successful and organised without the work of the chefs from IOE. They were very professional in their cooking and serving. The day was a great success and we hope to coordinate more in the future."

International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated worldwide on December 3rd each year in recognition of the achievements and contributions of people with disabilities. It brings together the general community and people with disabilities to celebrate their abilities, skills, contributions and achievements, promotes a positive image and involves people with disabilities and the broader community in activities to celebrate and raise awareness of IDPwD.

For more information www.idpwd.com.au

by Rebecca Gallaher