Lived experiences to inspire inclusion at Leisure Networks’ breakfast

PERSONAL stories, community engagement and inclusion will come together in Geelong next week for Leisure Networks’ International Day of People with Disability Celebration Breakfast.

GMHBA Stadium will host the event in the Presidents Room on December 4, inviting people to reflect on the importance of accessibility and empowerment for people with disabilities.

Lived experiences will be highlighted at the event with a parents panel featuring prominent voices including Jordan Ablett, Josh Jenkins, Dale Moorfoot and Haylea Cooney.

The panel will discuss the journey of learning about their child’s disability, realities of daily life and hopes for the future and the resources empowering their children to thrive.

Ms Ablett said she’s excited for the opportunity to be part of the panel, sharing it with parents who also have children with disability.

“I’m looking forward to learning and growing in my own parenting as I listen to their stories and the lessons they’ve learnt along the way while on their own journeys.

“I’m hopeful that we’ll have a wonderful morning together as we unite and advocate for a future of inclusion and empowerment for people with a disability.”

Live music will also entertain attendees with tunes from Geelong local DJ Fuzzy logic, also known as Ryan Schmidtke.

The breakfast seeks to reshape perceptions of disability, spark meaningful dialogue and inspire action toward creating inclusive communities by highlighting lived experiences.

Leisure Networks chief executive officer David Meade said inclusion is not just a word, it’s a responsibility.

“This breakfast is an opportunity to celebrate, connect and recommit to making inclusion a reality for everyone.”

The event also marks 34 years of dedicated service and leadership, reinforcing the community organisations mission to foster inclusion, diversity and connection.

Leisure Networks invite the community to the event and contribute to building a future where everyone is supported, empowered and celebrated.

The celebration breakfast will run from 6:45am until 9am.

For more information, head to leisurenetworks.org