Blacktown celebrates all abilities

Published on 25 November 2019

Blacktown City Council is celebrating the International Day of People with Disability with a series of free activities across the city from 3 – 8 December.

International Day of People with Disability is an annual United Nations-sanctioned event that aims to promote an understanding of people with a disability and to encourage support for their dignity, rights and wellbeing.

Blacktown City Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM said the events are an opportunity to celebrate disability and diversity.

“I am proud to be Mayor of a city that is committed to supporting and celebrating people of all cultures and abilities,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

The theme for International Day of People with Disability 2019 is ‘promoting the participation of persons with disabilities and their leadership: taking action on the 2030 Development Agenda'.

The agenda focuses on the empowerment of persons with disabilities for inclusive, equitable and sustainable development.

The celebrations will begin with the Blacktown City Awards & Talent Showcase on Tuesday 3 December.

“The talent showcase will have wonderful performances from people with a disability and the awards will recognise the achievements of individuals, groups and organisations within our community,” Mayor Bleasdale said.

“The event will be addressed by our two guest inspirational speakers from Special Olympics, Scott James Duncan and Neill Duncan.”

“Council is hosting a special picnic at Blacktown Showground on Wednesday and then festivities come to a close on Sunday 8 December with the SOAR & ROAR festival at the Sydney Motorsport Park.”

The SOAR & ROAR festival will provide people with an intellectual disability the opportunity to experience the thrill of a dream ride in a classic, exotic or luxury car.

Events

Tuesday, 3 December Blacktown City Awards & Talent Showcase Organise by the Blacktown City Access Advisory Committee in partnership with over 40 local Disability Service organisations   Time: 10 am – 2 pm Cost: Free. Booking is essential.   Venue:  Blacktown RSL Club Level 1, 40 Second Ave, Blacktown

Wednesday, 4 December Picnic Proudly supported by Council and Organised by Disability Services Australia (DSA) in partnership with a number of Disability Community organisations Time: 10 am – 1 pm Cost: Free Venue: Blacktown Showground, Richmond Rd, Blacktown

Sunday, 8 December Special Olympics SOAR & ROAR Festival Time: 9 am – 3 pm Cost: Free Venue: Sydney Motorsport Park, Eastern Creek