Cooney champions inclusion at golf fundraiser

BROWNLOW Medallist Adam Cooney will be teeing off on the Bellarine today (Friday, May 23) to support a cause championing the rights of people with disabilities.

The former Western Bulldogs and Essendon midfielder is the event ambassador for Gateways Support Services’ 21st Annual Gateways Charity Golf Day, a fundraiser with a mission to build a more inclusive, accessible community for everyone.

The event will run at Clifton Springs Golf Club for the first time, with tee-off from 12pm before dinner and a silent auction.

It will raise funds to refurbish the kitchen within Social Connect, Gateways’ innovative program that supports 41 adults with disabilities to build independence, social skills, confidence and friendships through community-based activities.

The cause is deeply personal for Cooney. His daughter has benefited from similar support programs, giving him an authentic perspective on the life-changing impact these services can have.

“What I really like about the Social Connect program is that it’s not just about support, it’s about creating real access to the community,” he said.

“Whether it’s getting out to the local gym or grabbing a coffee at a café, it’s about making everyday life more inclusive for people with disabilities.

“For me, inclusion means making sure everyone has the chance to be seen, heard, and involved. Gateways does that in such a down-to-earth, practical way.”

Gateways stated the kitchen refurbishment might seem like a simple upgrade but inclusive and accessible environments are the difference between participation and exclusion for people with disabilities.

“A thoughtfully designed kitchen becomes a space where people can learn to cook a meal, make their own hot drink, or host a morning tea with friends, skills that many take for granted, yet are vital for independence and self-confidence.”

Social Connect started in 2010 to support people with autism and complex needs who could not use other services, and it has since grown into a space that offers tailored support to anyone wanting to build their independence in their own way.