Rochester Secondary College marked International Day of People with Disability with Paralympian Col Pearse.
Photo by
JORDAN TOWNROW
In honour of International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD), Rochester Secondary College hosted a special event on Wednesday, December 3.
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The annual day promotes awareness, understanding and inclusion for Australia’s 5.5 million people with disability.
The college extended an invitation to several schools across the region to take part in the celebration.
Sunshine Parsons and Megan Simmons spoke about their experiences.
Photo by
JORDAN TOWNROW
Rochester Secondary College principal Matt Koutroubas said the event was an important learning opportunity for students.
“As a school, it’s important that we support awareness and provide opportunities for students to hear from people who have a disability and understand that everybody is the same despite all the challenges,” he said.
“We have a number of students with a wide range of disabilities, so it’s also very important for them to see the range of guest speakers who came and spoke today.”
Kane Park, member of ‘What We Can Do’, was the MC.
Photo by
JORDAN TOWNROW
A major highlight of the event was a visit from Paralympian Col Pearse, who served as the guest speaker.
Mr Pearse spoke to students about his disability and his journey to becoming a Paralympian.
As he presented, his silver medal was passed around the room for students to admire.
He later answered questions from the curious students.
The Rochester Secondary College hall was packed with students from different schools.
Photo by
JORDAN TOWNROW
Mr Pearse said IDPwD was an inspiring day for both people with and without a disability.
“Today is... inspiring because we’ve got a whole group of people who live with a disability on a day-to-day basis, but they’ve never let that stop them,” he said.
“They’re up on stage, talking in front of you all, sharing their journey and spreading awareness.
“Today is such a beautiful day for people with disabilities because we feel welcomed in this room.”
Members of Kyabram District Health Service’s ‘What We Can Do’ group also played a major role in the day.
Col Pearse as guest speaker was a major highlight of the day.
Photo by
JORDAN TOWNROW
Kane Park acted as master of ceremonies, while Sunshine Parsons and Megan Simmons shared their experiences as part of the Enabling Women’s Leadership Program.
After the assembly, students explored stalls hosted by local support services.
There was also a barbecue lunch, smoothie bikes, inclusive games, pop-up activities and a sensory space.
The event was proudly supported by Rochester and Elmore District Health Service, Kyabram District Health Service, Campaspe Shire Council and Rochester Secondary College.
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