Highlights from the Disability Expo 2023
Published on 06 October 2023
The Shoalhaven region is both diverse and rich with people of many abilities, backgrounds and strengths and this was demonstrated at the 9th Shoalhaven Disability Expo which was held in September at the Shoalhaven Indoor Sports Centre, Bomaderry.
Although the mercury hit the mid 30’s, the event was a huge success, bringing together over 70 stall holders representing a wide range of services, supports and opportunities for people with lived experience of disability, their families and carers.
With over 420 people attending, the expo provided an opportunity to remove barriers, improve equitable access, independence, and provide those in our community with respect and equal opportunity to participate in a safe and welcoming way.
This years’ expo included a dedicated sensory area that provided visitors with a space where external stimuli was minimised. Additionally, following feedback after the 2022 expo, a quiet hour was introduced to support people that live with sensory sensitivities.
As we strive for a more inclusive and connected community, understanding choices about important things that contribute to our wellbeing such as learning, health, social connection, housing and belonging, enables us to have control over our day-to-day life. The event provided an opportunity to empower visitors with information and knowledge that can contribute to those day-to-day decisions.
The Shoalhaven Disability Expo was proudly organised by the Shoalhaven Disability Forum inter-agency, a collaboration between service providers and local government.