FOUR local residents have been recognised for their achievement and contributions in this year’s Geelong Awards for People with Disability.<\/p>\n
Held annually, the awards celebrate local leadership, creativity and advocacy across the region.<\/p>\n
Actor and creative leader Scott Price, known for his award-winning and internationally recognised work with Back to Back Theatre, received the Achievement Award.<\/p>\n
His work on community arts projects invite people to share their stories in inclusive and innovative ways. Price, who said he was “stoked” to be recognised, openly speaks about the importance of celebrating disability and making sure everyone is treated equally.<\/p>\n
Portarlington multiple sclerosis advocate (MS) Clare Reilly, who is hoping to become the first person to complete Western Australia’s Munda Biddi trail in a powered off-road wheelchair next year, received the Leadership and Advocacy Award.<\/p>\n
The accolade recognises the impact of her podcast, MS Understood, which brings awareness to those living with MS, as well as her advocacy, public speaking and fundraising efforts which highlight the importance of accessibility and inclusive spaces.<\/p>\n
She is studying to become a counsellor for people newly diagnosed with chronic illness or disability.<\/p>\n
Chris ‘Hendo’ Henderson was honoured with the Volunteering Award for his long-standing work promoting inclusive sport through the Freedom Sports Foundation and its partnership with Kids+.<\/p>\n
His efforts have helped young people experience the camaraderie that sports bring through the foundation’s wheelchair sports program.<\/p>\n
The Inclusive Business Award went to Heather Thompson, the founder of Life is Worth Living, who supports people with disability to participate fully in their communities and pursue their goals.<\/p>\n
Her mentoring of staff and students highlights the impact small businesses can have in driving meaningful social change.<\/p>\n
The awards were presented at a community celebration at the Geelong Library and Heritage Centre last week.<\/p>\n
About 150 people attended the event, which was co-designed with six community members with lived experience of disability and held as part of the City of Greater Geelong’s International Day of People with Disability event celebrations.<\/p>\n
Cr Anthony Aitken, chair of the City of Greater Geelong’s disability access and inclusion portfolio, presented each recipient with their award.<\/p>\n
With 19 nominations received this year, he said, it was a tough decision for the judging panel of three.<\/p>\n
“The calibre of this year’s nominations was very high, and we thank everyone for putting these talented and determined people forward.”<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
FOUR local residents have been recognised for their achievement and contributions in this year’s Geelong Awards for People with Disability. Held annually, the awards celebrate local leadership, creativity and advocacy across the region. Actor and creative leader Scott Price, known for his award-winning and internationally recognised work with Back to Back Theatre, received the Achievement […]<\/p>\n