Access for All Abilities News Spring / Summer 2010

ACCESS FOR ALL ABILITIES Spring - Summer 2010

1 Access for All Abilities News Spring / Summer 2010

EDITORIAL

Article from Chrissy

Welcome to the Spring edition of the Hume Moreland AAA Newsletter! As you can see this is a pretty big edition because we have so much going on this time of the year! Winter sports have just about completed their finals series and summer sports have commenced training- what a great time it is to join a club or try a new activity. We also have lots of events coming up with the North West Respite Expo and Broadmeadows Leisure Centre Open Day in October and of course International Day for People with Disability is also near upon us – stay tuned for more information on the Sports Day we will be running. And as usual – please feel free to contact myself or Leanne with any feedback, new ideas or inclusions in the newsletter.

Hume City Council Access for all Abilities Officer Chrissy Dainton on 9205 2510 or email [email protected] NRS 133 677 TTY 1800 555 677

Article from Leanne Ahh, it is Spring! I for one am grateful that the daylight hours are longer and my evening dog walk is conducted in the light. I have been exploring a range of new walking routes in the Brunswick West area and enjoying the new surroundings that I am finding. I love looking at the beautiful houses, following the Moonee Ponds creek and exploring the many parks. It is a great time for walking… and working off some of the Winter blues.

There are lots of new activities popping up in Moreland, so I hope you take advantage of the opportunities to meet new people and to be part of a club. A lot of working is being achieved by clubs to ensure they provide a welcoming and friendly environment, so give them a go!

Moreland City Council Access for all Abilities Officer Leanne Carlon on 9240 1277 or email [email protected] NRS / TTY 9240 2256

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CONTENTS

1. LEISURE CENTRE NEWS 5

2. SPORTS ACTION 7

2.1 BASKETBALL 7

2.2 BOCCIA 8

2.3 CARPET BOWLS 8

2.4 FOOTBALL 9

2.5 GYMNASTICS 9

2.6 HEALTH AND FITNESS 10

2.7 SOCCER 11

2.8 SWIMMING 11

2.9 WALKING 12

3. VOLUNTEER INFORMATION 14

3.1 VOLUNTEERING 14

3.2 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES 14

4. WHATS ON 15

4.1 OCTOBER 15 4.1.1 Sunbury Agricultural Show - Saturday 9 October 2010 15 4.1.2 Carers Week —17-23 October 15 4.1.3 Hume Festival of Music—15 October 2010 to 7 November 2010 15

4.2 NOVEMBER 16 4.2.1 Broadmeadows Festival—Sunday 14 November 2010 16 4.2.2 Fawkner Festival—Sunday 7 November 2010 16

4.3 DECEMBER 16 4.3.1 2010 Disability Sport & Recreation Festival - Able and Active 16 4.3.2 International Day for People with Disability 17 4.3.3 Moreland Carols by the Lake 2010 17 4.3.4 Hume - Carols by candlelight: Sunday 5 December 2010 17 4.3.5 Summer Social – An inclusive event for people of all abilities 18

5. SPECIAL INTEREST 19

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5.1 VICTORIAN CARER CARD 19

5.2 FREE PUBLIC TRANSPORT! 19

5.3 HEADS TOGETHER (ABI FAMILY CAMPS) - NOVEMBER 20

5.4 NEW! HUME YOUTH REFERENCE GROUP – WE NEED YOU! 20

5.5 CRAIGIEBURN GO GIRL CHALLENGE 20

5.6 SUNBURY GIRLS SPACE 21

5.7 MY TIME 21

6. FEEDBACK 22

7. CONTACT US 23

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1. LEISURE CENTRE NEWS

Broadmeadows Leisure Centre is one of 12 regional, rural and metro Victoria Leisure Centre sites involved in the Inclusive Leisure Initiative. The Inclusive Leisure Initiative (ILI) aims to assist centres to cater for people with a disability. The initiative will provide centres with inclusive tools and resources, assisting to increase participation and provide a quality experience for people with a disability.

Broadmeadows Leisure Centre has a Disability Action Plan which covers the areas of training and education; policies and procedures; accessible equipment; disability programming; physical access; and marketing and communication.

Some of the key initiatives to improve access to BLC include:-

 The construction of a low level customer service desk to provide improved access and interaction between our customer service staff and people in a wheelchair and a high exposure area for the promotion and sale of kiosk items to customers using both the wet and dry activity areas.

 Painting of the main gymnasium ramp as well as increased marking along entry areas were completed to improve accessibility for vision impaired customers.

 Our new Easy Ladder will be arriving in mid October which will give increased access for participants utilizing the 25 metre pool who previously found it challenging in particular to exit the pool due to depth of pool (1.3 metres)

 Portable Hand Assist Rails for the Leisure Pool to increase programming opportunities for warm water and rehabilitation exercise have been designed and will be installed in mid October.

All these renovations were funded through a partnership between Hume City Council and Sport and Recreation Victoria to improved access to facilities and services at the Broadmeadows Leisure Centre.

NEW! ‘SmartGym’  SmartGym is a brand new ground floor (and step free) gymnasium which was designed to provide accessible health and wellbeing services and programs to older adults, persons with a disability and females who enjoy a quieter environment in which to exercise.  SmartGym includes cardio equipment, strength training equipment, light free weights and an area for use of fitballs, abdominal exercises and stretching.  SmartGym will also be used as programmable space for both new and existing programs offered by the centre and by allied health professionals, community groups, school groups etc for their respective participants.  SmartGym will be available for use by members of Hume City Council Leisure Centres and casual visitors to the Broadmeadows Leisure Centre.

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 SmartGym has been developed as part of a continuous improvement program to the services and facilities provided at the Broadmeadows Leisure Centre.

Broadmeadows Leisure Centre is ‘Communication Friendly’ !

Communication friendly means… As a person with communication disability  You feel welcome  You are listened to  You can tell people what you want yourself

Broadmeadows Leisure Centre, with Hume City Council’s Access for All Abilities officer has recently worked with the North West Regional Communication Service on a communication access project as part of its roll out of the ‘Inclusive Leisure Initiative’ at the centre.

This project aims to increase the accessibility of the centre for people with communication difficulties who may find it difficult for example, to tell front desk staff what program they want to undertake, order a coffee for themselves or follow a complex written gym program. To date, customized communication aids have been developed for front desk and for use in the gym or pool. More individualized aids that allow a person to actively and independently participate in a program can also be developed. Staff have also participated in training presented by someone with complex communication needs.

If you, or someone you know has difficulty with communication, come

 Try out the communication aids  Check out the ‘communication friendly’ centre and staff at Broadmeadows Leisure Centre now !

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For more details regarding this project, a copy of the communication aids or information on how to get individualised communication supports contact Kym Torresi, North West Regional Communication Service, 9430 9178, [email protected]

2. SPORTS ACTION

2.1 BASKETBALL

Wheelchair Basketball Are you looking for a new, fun and exciting sport to get involved in? Then wheelchair basketball is for you! Coburg basketball stadium is running an 8 week evening competition commencing Thursday October 14th and running weekly until December 2nd! Enter as an individual and we, will find a team for you! Basketball specific wheelchairs will be provided, or you can bring your own. People with and without a disability are welcome! Never played before? Not a problem! Training/skill sessions are available from October 10 to all members of the public! Come down to the Coburg Basketball Stadium every Sunday afternoon from 4.30pm-6pm, and for $2 you can join in the session, where you will learn the skills and rules and enjoy the great game of wheelchair basketball! How do I get involved? To find out more information or to register yourself contact Alice Hammond or Matt Dunstan at Basketball Victoria 9927 6666 or alternatively contact Georgia at Coburg Basketball Stadium 9355 7200. It’s a great way get fit, meet new people and make new friends!

2.2 BOCCIA Boccia Development Program Wheelchair Sports Victoria in partnership with Yarra City Council, have recently introduced a Boccia Development program. Boccia is a sport for people with Cerebral Palsy or similar impairment in four limbs. Boccia is a target game of strategy and skill. There are three types of player – throwers, ramp players and those who can propel the ball by foot.

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When Fortnightly on Sundays Where Fitzroy High School Time 12.30 - 2.30pm Cost Free to come and try and then $50 for the year Equipment including a ramp, is available for use. For more information phone Leanne on 0410 432 405 or email [email protected].

Boccia Development Program - Attention schools & day services! An opportunity to have a Boccia come and try session at your school or centre exists. We are seeking more players to participate in our regular Sunday Boccia Sessions at Fitzroy High School, but recognise that many people do not know what Boccia is or if the sport is for them. We are keen to arrange a visit to schools and day services in the northern region to run an introductory and fun session introducing the sport to your students / clients. All equipment and instruction is provided at no cost. If you are interested in a visit to your school / service or would like further information please call Leanne on 0410 432 405 or [email protected]. No group size will be too small!

2.3 CARPET BOWLS

Broadmeadows Leisure Centre - Cnr Dimboola and Pearcdale Parade Broadmeadows Come by yourself or bring a friend and enjoy a cuppa and have loads of fun! Never played - give it a go and you may be surprised.

Runs every fortnight - next session Wednesday 6 October 2010 Time: 10am to 12noon Call 9309 8500 to book (bookings essential) Cost: $4 per person (includes tea, coffee and biscuits) Special $6 senior lunch available from 12noon to 1pm Instruction and guidance available.

2.4 FOOTBALL

COBURG TIGERS HOST F.I.D.A OPEN DAY

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The Coburg Football Club in conjunction with Hume Council and the Football Integration Development Associated hosted an open day at Highgate Recreation Reserve on Sunday 15th August. The day included representative matches between the North & South and culminated in a football clinic conducted by Coburg senior players Jason Morgan, Jon Morris & Christian McErlain. The Football Integration Development Association provides a regular, competitive figure of Australian Rules football for players with an intellectual disability. Its main aim is to provide access to football for anyone in Victoria with an intellectual disability. Currently almost four hundred players are involved in the program. The Coburg Football Club is looking to establish a team within the region to compete in the 2011 FIDA competition which comprises over 450 players from across the state. For more information please contact FIDA General Manager Peter Ryan on 0417 372 070.

2.5 GYMNASTICS

Gymnastics Victoria and SCOPE through funding from VicHealth, have designed an ‘Adult Disability Gymnastics Program’. The program was developed from a semester long pilot held at the Footscray City Gymnastics Club, after a need for daycare based residents to become more active through gymnastics was identified. The program aims are to build the confidence of participants and increase their functional abilities through a semi-structured class within a safe and motivating environment. Tammy Robinson, Footscray City Gymnastics Club Manager say’s “somewhat hesitant to enter the gymnastics floor in week one, the gymnasts demonstrated how far they had individually come in a semester, with participants enthusiastically demonstrating their remarkable accumulation of new skills, abilities and confidence.” Due to the pilot’s success, Gymnastics Victoria and SCOPE are looking for interested participants for the Footscray City GC program as well as looking for new regions and organizations to work with to further provide individuals with the opportunity to participate within gymnastics. Please note that the program is not limited to adult participants. If you are an individual or an organisation looking to participate within gymnastics please contact Kristian Brudenell at Gymnastics Victoria on 03 9214 6020 ext 211 or [email protected]

2.6 HEALTH AND FITNESS 2.6.1 YSPORT: Ysport has been developed for children aged 7-12 years who have been diagnosed with Austim/Asperger’s Syndrome. This exercise program is designed to help the children develop their coordination and motor skills as well as creating a unique social environment for them. The program is also an opportunity for parents to

9 Access for All Abilities News Spring / Summer 2010 network with each other. The program is a lot of fun for the kids and Brunswick City Baths would love to see more families being aware of this program and getting involved. Where: Brunswick City Baths, 14 Dawson Street Brunswick When:- school terms on Friday’s from 430pm-530pm. For more information please contact Jade Reid on 03 9381 1840 or [email protected]

2.6.2 MS/STROKE GROUPS: Brunswick City Baths identified that there was a need in our community to run supervised exercise groups for people who were living with Multi Sclerosis and people who were being rehabilitated after suffering a stroke. Clients are given or can bring their own individualised strength training program; they are able to do this two days a week with an instructor available to supervise the clients. The program is open to anyone who would like, or needs extra assistance due to medical restrictions. Where: Brunswick City Baths, 14 Dawson Street Brunswick When:- 10.30am-11.30am on Monday and Tuesday For more information please contact Kate Olsen at [email protected]

2.6.3 G.I.S.T Brunswick City Baths is a member of COTA (Council of the Ageing) Victoria. As a partner we endeavor to provide a wide range of programs and services aimed at the older generation. Gentle Introduction to Strength Training is a chair based strength training class- it is designed to help those who may not be able to undertake a regular gym program. This class is not limited to our older adults- anyone who fits this description is welcome to attend. Where: Brunswick City Baths, 14 Dawson Street Brunswick When: - Wednesday’s from 11.45am to 12.45pm For more information about GIST please contact either Jade Reid [email protected] or Kate Olsen [email protected] on 03 9381 1840. For more information on COTA please visit their website at www.cotavic.org.au

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2.6.4 CRISP: Communities Responding: Integration Support Programme CRISP has been developed through Merri Community Health Service. Brunswick City Baths has partnered with the CRISP program to offer a land based exercise class to adults 18-64 years with a mental illness who are living in the cities of Moreland & Hume. The class is doing extremely well and BCB hopes to continue to expand and receive more and more new participants. BCB/CRISP is held once a week for an hour. Anyone interested is encouraged to contact MCHS to speak with the CRISP team workers. For more information on this class please contact Kate Olsen at [email protected] or for more information about the CRISP program please go to the MCHS website www.mchs.org.au

2.7 WHEELCHAIR SOCCER

IT’S HERE! Wheelchair soccer competition in the North. Come along to play and sign up to a team on launch day, Saturday 30 October 2010. FREE EVENT Where: Broadmeadows Leisure Centre (corner of Pearcedale Parade and Dimboola Rd) When: Saturday 30 October 2010 from 11am – 1pm. For more information contact Elyse Carlyle (FFA) on 9474 1833 or Seona Palmer (Whittlesea AAA) on 9217 2194.

2.8 SWIMMING

Swimmers with a purpose - SWAP Swimming Victoria, Elite Swimming & Moreland City Council are making a splash!

Do you want to make new friends and increase your confidence? We are offering an 8 week SWAP Program in Term 4, designed to increase your swimming technique in a friendly and welcoming environment. SWAP is open to all abilities and ages, catering for individual needs, with the opportunity to progress to club swimming.

WHEN: Saturday 9th October 2010 for 8 weeks WHERE: Elite Swimming, 8 Attercliffe St, Pascoe Vale

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TIME: 12.00pm – 1.00pm COST: $40 for 8 week program

Carers/support staff are expected to come prepared to enter the pool at the discretion of the coach

For more information, or to register, please contact Chris Stathis on (03) 9354 0887 or [email protected] .

Fawkner Leisure Centre Swimming Program Swimming programs bring with them a range of benefits for students, depending on how the program is implemented and the particular needs of each student involved.

Swim and survive skills are a must for everybody to have. At Fawkner Leisure Centre specialised swimming instructors engage participants of all abilities through fun, enjoyable activities with the aim to improve muscle strength, muscle endurance as well as flexibility. Independence and confidence is encouraged as water awareness and water safety skills are taught. Swim technique promotes increased aerobic fitness as participants begin to relax which is noticed through changed behaviours both in and around water.

Lessons are available 7 days a week and cost per class may be as little as $8.50.

If you would like more information or would like a free assessment, please contact Fawkner Leisure Centre on 9358 6600 or by email at [email protected].

2.9 WALKING “Out and about in your backyard!” NEW - CRAIGIEBURN COMMUNITY WALKING DAYS

The Craigieburn community walking days provide an opportunity for community members of all abilities to participate in a 1.5km, beginner level walk around two of Craigieburn’s recreation precincts.

A Tai Chi warm up will get walkers ready for the 20 minute walk at each site, following the walk information about walking groups and participation benefits of walking will be provided as well as a light morning tea.

Participation in these events is free.

Community Walk 1 Meeting Point- Craigieburn Leisure Centre Foyer Craigieburn Road, Craigieburn

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When:- Tuesday 19 October at 11am

Community Walk 2 Meeting Point - Highgate Recreation Reserve Main Pavilion Grand Boulevard, Craigieburn When:- Sunday 24 October at 11am

For further information please contact the Active Craigieburn Project Officers: Hume City Council - Michelle Watt on 9205 2458 Dianella Community Health - Kate Thomas on 8345 5343 http://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Page/page.asp?Page_Id=1936&h=0

Heart Foundation Walking Groups - Moreland 1. Active Over 50’s – moderate walking pace for everyone over 50. Meeting place - Outside Merri Community Health Service 368 Sydney Road, Coburg (enter via Harding Street) When - Tuesday & Thursday at 9.30am

2. Sussex Neighbourhood House Group – social walking group for everyone. Cuppa afterwards. Meeting place - Sussex Neighbourhood House 235-237 Sussex Street Coburg North. Ph. 9354 2210 to register When - Wednesday 10.00am

3. Glenroy Neighbourhood House Group – health and fitness walk Meeting place - Glenroy Neighbourhood Learning Centre. 5B Cromwell Street, Glenroy. Ph. 9304 3910 to register When - Mondays and Fridays at 10.00am

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3. VOLUNTEER INFORMATION

3.1 VOLUNTEERING Volunteering is the lifeblood of sport and recreation. The majority of sports are staffed by volunteers – from committees of management, coaches, team managers, canteen assistants, fundraisers and a heap of other roles. Without volunteers, many clubs would not survive. Volunteering is a great way to be part of a club. It is a great way to make friends, have fun, develop skills and to contribute to the community we live in. Volunteering is also a great opportunity for people who may not want to play a particular sport, but who have an interest in it, to get involved in a meaningful way. There are many stories about the value and appreciation expressed by players of the people who help them to play – trainers, coaches, water carriers, equipment managers, scorers, umpires and the list can go on. A number of sporting clubs across Hume and Moreland are crying out for help – you could fill that gap.

3.2 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Cricket - The St Andrews Cricket Club, Pascoe Vale, is always looking for volunteers. St Andrews is a long established local cricket club (1934) and fields 6 senior sides and juniors. They are also attempting to field a junior side for girls this coming season, and are keen to recruit volunteers for scoring duties. Home matches are played at Cole Reserve in Cumberland Rd Pascoe Vale, and the season begins in October with the Finals being played in March. Matches are played on Saturdays and Sundays. Any person interested in such a duty is welcome to contact the Secretary, Stewart Homer, on 0425 730 914, to find out more information

Soccer - Moreland Wolves Soccer Club that will have Junior and Women Coaching positions available, as well requiring volunteers for running monthly Soccer Clinics for people with a disability. For more information go to www.morelandwolves.com.au

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4. WHATS ON

4.1 OCTOBER

4.1.1 Sunbury Agricultural Show - Saturday 9 October 2010 Including ‘Snakebusters’,  Thomas the Train,  Bungee Trampoline,  Farmer Darryl’s “Super-sized” Animal Farm, Enter the Scarecrow Competition, Working Sheepdogs,  Taekwondo Clinic by Halls Taekwondo and lots more!!! Where:- Sunbury Recreation Reserve, Riddell Street Sunbury For all enquiries call - 9394 3089

North West Respite Expo— Monday 11 October 2010 Where: Hume Global Learning Centre 1093 Pascoe Vale Road Broadmeadows Time:- from 11am – 6pm Over 50 organisations will be exhibiting information on respite options available across the North West region of Melbourne. There will also be demonstrations and entertainment throughout the day. This is a free event. For more information contact Ro Marks via email at [email protected]

4.1.2 Carers Week —17-23 October Open Day at Broadmeadows Leisure Centre To celebrate ‘Carers Week’, Broadmeadows Leisure Centre is having an Open Day on Wednesday 20 October 2010 from 10am – 1.30pm. All are welcome to come down and try out carpet bowls, badminton, dance, gym or have a swim in the pool. There will be morning tea and lots of opportunities to meet the leisure centre staff, have a look around and see what is on offer at the Broadmeadows Leisure Centre (corner of Pearcedale Parade and Dimboola Road Broadmeadows) All inquiries to Chrissy Dainton on 9205 2510 or [email protected]

4.1.3 Hume Festival of Music—15 October 2010 to 7 November 2010 This year the festival will be held in the warmer months to really embrace the wonderful opportunity of al fresco dining and entertainment. Visitors will experience a brilliant line up of artists at some of our most historic venues, beautiful wineries and stylish venues throughout Hume. With events for children, food and wine lovers, art

15 Access for All Abilities News Spring / Summer 2010 enthusiasts, cultural diversity and more, locals and visitors are sure to find an event that will inspire and delight them. Indulge in a superb dinner and show with internationally acclaimed performer Renee Geyer or enjoy a host of multi-award winning performing artists to include Jan Preston, Phil Manning, Archie Roach, Steve Cummins, Mike Beale, Ian Collard, Tony Kopa, Andy Baylor, Taste, kNiKi, TeAyPe and Kerri Simpson to name just a few, who will be featured at selected venues during the festival. Our magnificent multicultural events will present a global musical feast and kids will be delighted with The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, New MacDonald’s Farm Musical, High School Musical 3 outdoor movie presentation and dance work shops presented by the amazing Demi Sarono of ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ fame. Make sure you get in early, and book your tickets for a display of spectacular talent when Cultural Fuse presents an afternoon of music, dance, fashion and glamour including the grand final of the Hume Talent Search – a not-to–be-missed event on the festival calendar! For a copy of the schedule of events or for bookings call 9205 2200 or check the Hume City Council website at www.hume.vic.gov.au

4.2 NOVEMBER

4.2.1 Broadmeadows Festival—Sunday 14 November 2010 Where:- Civic Plaza (outside the Hume Global Learning Centre), 1093 Pascoe Vale Rd Broadmeadows. The Broadmeadows Community Festival is an annual one day event which appeals to the community due to the multi-cultural content. The Festival has been held for approximately 10 years and attracts between 5,000 and 7,000 visitors each year, providing a platform for the local community groups to showcase song, dance, food and craft in a family friendly environment. It is apparent that the success of this festival is due at large to the spirit of the community.

4.2.2 Fawkner Festival—Sunday 7 November 2010 Time: 12 – 5 pm Location: CB Smith Reserve, Jukes Road, Fawkner (Melway Ref: 17 J1) The Fawkner Festival is a free community event presented by Moreland City Council This festival is a day for the community and offers something for everyone with a multitude of market and community information stalls, demonstrations, interactive activities, rides, and an exciting array of stage and roving entertainment throughout the day. The festival program includes culturally diverse, indigenous, acoustic and traditional music, featuring young local musicians and soloists.

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For more information phone 9240 1111 or visit www.moreland.vic.gov.au

4.3 DECEMBER

4.3.1 2010 Disability Sport & Recreation Festival - Able and Active The inaugural Disability Sport and Recreation Festival – “Able and Active” will bring together a range of community organisations which focus on sport and recreation opportunities, equity and health issues for Victorian's with disability, in an exhibition- style, free public event. Hosted by Wheelchair Sports Victoria and proudly supported by the State Government Victoria, City of Melbourne and Federation Square, the Festival will be held on International Day of People with Disability on Friday 3rd December 2010. The festival is a unique, interactive event promoting healthy, physically active lifestyles through inclusive and accessible sport and recreation. Held at Federation Square in Melbourne, the Festival will be a great opportunity for the sector to unite around common goals of “participation and equity for health” and will provide a one-stop-shop for consumers of disability sport and recreation, their carers, family and friends. For more information or to register your interest in participating, please visit the events tab at the Wheelchair Sports Victoria website at www.wsv.org.au or email [email protected]

4.3.2 International Day for People with Disability Watch this space…. Hume City Council will be promoting a range of activities for people with a disability to get involved in during late November and early December to celebrate International Day for People with a Disability (celebrated annually on 3 December). Check the Hume City Council website more information or contact Hume’s AAA officer Chrissy Dainton on 9205 2510 from November for a schedule of activities.

4.3.3 Moreland Carols by the Lake 2010 Date: Saturday 4 December Time: 7.30 – 10 pm Location: Coburg Lake Reserve, Lake Grove, Coburg (Melway Ref: 17 J10) Carols by the Lake is a free community event presented by Moreland City Council. Gather your family and friends, warm up your singing voices and come along to soak up the festive atmosphere at this year’s Carols by the Lake. This year’s event will feature performances by Darryl Cotton, the Victorian Police Showband, and other special guests including the Children’s Performing Company of Australia. So pack a picnic and don’t forget your blanket!

For more information phone 9240 1111 or visit www.moreland.vic.gov.au

17 Access for All Abilities News Spring / Summer 2010 4.3.4 Hume - Carols by candlelight: Sunday 5 December 2010 Experience an extraordinary evening of music as we take you on a magical, musical journey featuring a glittering line up of entertainment. The night features many musical styles, performed by an amazing line up of singers, dancers and musicians. This spectacular free night of entertainment concludes with a stunning Christmas fireworks display. Where: Broadmeadows Town Park, Pearcedale Parade Broadmeadows. Time: from 7.30pm

4.3.5 Summer Social – An inclusive event for people of all abilities Saturday 11 December 2010 12 noon – 4.30 pm Tickets $32 per guest – One nominated carer free Coburg Town Hall 90 Bell Street Coburg VIC 3058 Lunch, live music and performances Further information contact Council on 9240 1111

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5. SPECIAL INTEREST

5.1 VICTORIAN CARER CARD Hume City Council is a proud supporter of the new ‘Victorian Carer Card’ which was launched across the state on 1 August 2010. By supporting this initiative all Hume City Council Leisure Centres will offer carers who produce a valid ‘Victorian Carer Card’ at reception with 10% off the current price of a 12 month gym membership with upgraded entitlements to a full centre membership. So head into Broadmeadows Leisure Centre, Sunbury Aquatic Centre or Broadmeadows Leisure Centre with your Victorian Carer Card and sign up for a membership today! Moreland City Council- Holders of the recently launched Carers card are now entitled to the concession rate to utilise and access any of Moreland’s Leisure and Aquatic Facilities. This includes casual use, multi visit cards and memberships. For more information about Councils 6 Leisure and Aquatic facilities, please visit www.activemoreland.com.au For more information or to apply for a Victorian Carer Card go to the official website at www.carercard.vic.gov.au

5.2 FREE PUBLIC TRANSPORT! Did you know that with the new Myki ticketing system, people with a disability who have a valid Pension Concession card can travel on public transport on Saturdays and Sundays free in zone 1 and 2? For more information and to sign up for a Myki Card call 13 69 54 or see the website at www.myki.com.au or visit the Myki Discovery Centre at Southern Cross Train Station on Spencer St Melbourne. So get out and about and catch public transport this weekend! (please note there are various terms and conditions associated with this offer and contact Myki directly for more information on 13 69 54 or download terms and conditions from the above website)

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5.3 HEADS TOGETHER (ABI FAMILY CAMPS) - NOVEMBER The YMCA is running another three day residential camping program for families who have a child with an acquired brain injury (ABI). The program has been created and is run by volunteer healthcare professionals who specialize in paediatric ABI. The camp provides a safe, accepting and supportive social environment where families can meet and share experiences. Children range from 2-21 years of age and the family unit has encompassed many variations. Children with an ABI have varying levels of ability and mobility and are well supported by up to 30 volunteer camp leaders. Leaders are therapists, young adults with an ABI, and some are even ex-campers who have family members with an ABI. For more information and dates for camps, please contact Andrew Bell at the YMCA on 9345 8009.

5.4 NEW! HUME YOUTH REFERENCE GROUP – WE NEED YOU! Help us improve Youth Services! The Youth Reference Group - YRG has been established to give young people living, working or going to school in Hume City, opportunities to have a role in ensuring that events, programs and projects organised by Youth Services are relevant to them. The YRG provides opportunities for young people to develop programs and improve youth services. Network with other young people, be part of focus groups, evaluations or surveys and to make a positive impact in your local community. Provide a consultative role to other council departments or community agencies that are addressing youth issues. YRG Application Forms are available on Council’s website www.hume.vic.gov.au or call to request a hard copy or word version. For more information on Youth Services programs contact Youth services on 9205 2556 or email [email protected]

5.5 CRAIGIEBURN GO GIRL CHALLENGE Are you ready to be part of a new, healthy young women’s group in Craigieburn? If you’re aged between 13-16 years then come along to our FREE weekly Go Girl Challenge workshops! Learn Zumba, yoga, step class, Tai Chi, basketball and football. Have a go at healthy cooking classes or arty stuff like t-shirt printing! Workshops will run every Tuesday during school term 3.30–5.30pm, Craigieburn Youth Centre, 59 Craigieburn Road West, Craigieburn. For more information contact Rosemary from Youth Services on 0411 701 522.

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5.6 SUNBURY GIRLS SPACE Are you a young female in Sunbury looking for somewhere you can hang out with friends and learn new skills? If yes then come along to Girl Space workshops! Learn cooking, art, yoga, meditation, Tai chi, card and jewellery making. 4-6pm, Thursdays during school terms and some school holiday activities at Sunbury Youth Centre, 51-53 Evans Street, Sunbury.

5.7 MY TIME My Time groups provide facilitated peer support for mums, dads, grandparents and anyone caring for children with a disability, developmental delay or chronic medical condition. Socialise and share ideas and information with others who understand the rewards and intensity of caring for a child with special needs. Monday Mornings during school term at 9.30am-11.30am Commencing Term 4 from October 11th, 2010 Thornbury My Time is located at: Foundations ECI 298 Victoria Road, Thornbury Enquiries to Naomi: 9484 5314

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7. CONTACT US

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If you still wish to receive this newsletter in a hardcopy as well, please include your postal address.

Please send this completed form to: Hume City Council, Access for All Abilities Attention: Chrissy Dainton P.O. BOX 119 Dallas 3047

DOWNLOAD FOR FREE AND JOIN IN THE ACTIVITIES Did you know that we also have this newsletter available for free download on the Hume City Council website? You will also find previous editions and lots of great programs and activities to be involved in. Just search www.hume.vic.gov.au – under Leisure Sport and Recreation and see the Access for All Abilities page.

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