New Regional Access and Disability Advisory Committee members announced

Thirteen community members have been appointed to serve on Toowoomba Regional Council’s (TRC) Regional Access and Disability Advisory Committee (RADAC).

The appointment of Wendy Adams, Helen Bawden, David Boden, Nadia Brady, Michelle Davies, Mary-Ann Garrahy, Joyce Jones, Joshua Marshall, John Napier, Noel Spain, Kim Stokes, Megan Telford and Susan Unger to RADAC was approved at today’s (September 15) TRC September Ordinary Meeting.

Council in June endorsed TRC Environment and Community Services portfolio leader Cr Tim McMahon as RADAC chair with Cr James O’Shea, Environment and Community Services Committee chair, to act as the proxy.

Cr McMahon said the first meeting of the new voluntary advisory committee was expected to be held in October.

He said RADAC’s role was to represent the interests of people with a disability or access issues and inform Council about the extent of these issues and suggested solutions.

“It is important for Council to listen to ideas and recommendations from people in the disability sector and from other community groups who often feel isolated or marginalised,” Cr McMahon said.

“Apart from physical barriers, we need to be mindful of social and cultural issues that affect how people interact with others.

“I also see the committee as a vehicle for promoting a better understanding of these issues to the wider community and upholding the human rights of everyone involved in the disability sector.

“The committee provides support and advice to Council around the ongoing implementation of Council’s Access and Equity Plan 2016-21.

“I look forward to welcoming the incoming committee members. I’m confident we can make a positive contribution to improving a range of issues that will help many residents across the region.”

Meetings are held on the first Monday of the month from 10.30am-12.30pm, except for public holidays.

The term of the Regional Access & Disability Advisory committee will end in July 2022.