Hawkesbury's YMCA host disability activities gala day

The event attracted a large crowd of people with varied disabilities, who enjoyed dancing, bocce, hockey, basketball and other modified sport activities.

Western Sydney region YMCA community development officer, Debbie Court said the gala day provided people from a number of different care agencies and service providers the opportunity to get together and get active.

“Without activities such as this a lot of these people would spend most if their day sat in front of the television,” Ms Court said.

“We really encourage them to get up and get moving, it’s important as they get older that they maintain their movement. Like the age old saying, ‘use it or lose it’,” she said.

In attendance of the day was 22-year-old South Windsor volunteer Justin Lampson, who praised the work of the YMCA.

Justin, who has cerebral palsy, has completed a diploma of social science and is studying for a bachelor in community welfare, and has been on the hunt for local volunteer work. 

Not defined by his disability and with a passion to help, Justin approached the Salvation Army for work, but with nothing available was referred to the ‘Y’.

“I came to the YMCA and told them I had these qualifications that I wanted to put to use and they were happy to help me out,” Justin said.

“It has been absolutely amazing working with the team,” he said.

Justin spoke highly about they gala day and the work the Y did in organising it.

He said he wasn't aware of International Day of People with Disability until last week, and said he thought it was an empowering initiative.

“I think the gala day is an incredible way to engage people with a disability to get them involved with the community, and generally empower them.”

The gala day is held annually at the indoor stadium and continues to grow each year.

Hawkesbury YMCA would like to thank their sponsors for the event, South Windsor Butchery, The Loaf Baker, Outback Bakehouse and Sciberras Fresh Fruit and Vegetable .