Hervey Bay to host launch of 2007 Disability Action Week

A community celebration, with entertainment and activities for the whole family, will be staged in Hervey Bay on Sunday 15 July to launch this year’s Disability Action Week.

Disability Services Minister Warren Pitt will attend the free family fun day at Scarness Park, where Queensland Governor Quentin Bryce will officially launch the statewide awareness week.

“This year’s Disability Action Week will encourage Queenslanders to ‘see beyond the disability’ and focus on abilities instead,” Mr Pitt said.

“Disability touches the lives of thousands of Queenslanders, their families and carers. This week’s festivities are dedicated to celebrating diversity, raising awareness and encouraging positive attitudes.”

The free community event will be staged at Scarness Park on The Esplanade from 9am to 1pm.

“The Queensland Government is committed to helping people with a disability live in and be active members of their communities. This event is another great example of this commitment,” Mr Pitt said.

“Hervey Bay is renowned for its laidback lifestyle, wonderful weather and rapidly growing population, making this the perfect place to launch a week dedicated to celebrating the diversity of our communities.”

The community celebration will feature a performance from the Wheelchair Dancesport Australian Rhythm on Wheels Team and the Dorothy the Dinosaur children’s show.

“I hope people in the Hervey Bay region will come along and enjoy the family fun day while helping to build more inclusive and supportive communities,” Mr Pitt said.

“Besides the Hervey Bay launch, there will be hundreds of other events across the state to mark this year’s Disability Action Week.

“I am particularly looking forward to the announcement of the 2007 Disability Action Week Awards on Tuesday 17 July in Brisbane.

“The awards are another way to celebrate the achievements and efforts of individuals, groups and organisations who have contributed to a better quality of life for Queenslanders with a disability.”

Media contact: Peter Nibbs 3235 4280