IN PICTURES: Creatives living with a disability enjoy selling their wares at Great Southern Ability Festival
Claire MiddletonAlbany Advertiser
Nadine Ryder and Ash Mills at the Great Southern Ability Festival. Credit: Laurie Benson
The Great Southern Ability Festival arrived at Albany Town Square on Tuesday, with talented people living with a disability enjoying the opportunity to sell their arts and crafts.
Participants were able to buy Christmas gifts, listen to the Spencer Park Education Support Centre’s choir and take part in activities which included a drumming circle and face painting.
The square was packed with people enjoying the stalls and with volunteer organisations who provide free, fun and inclusive services for people of all abilities.
Organising committee member Denise Kay said the event had received great feedback from people who attended.
“It was a great day with a lovely atmosphere and we got some nice feedback,” she said.
“Having the event in the town square brings it right into the heart of the city and opens it up to the whole community.
“It’s lovely to see those talented and skilful people enjoying the music and the activities.
“There were lots of smiles.”
The event enjoyed backing from organisations including the City of Albany, Developmental Disability WA, Great Southern Community Legal Services, the Community Living Association and Southern Ports.
Debra Griffin, Naomi Lake and Freya Kellow-Andersson. Credit: Laurie Benson
Jaxon Whitbread finds his rhythm at the Great Southern Ability Festival drumming session. Credit: Laurie BensonEmma Byrne surrounded by beanies. Credit: Laurie BensonTina Daniels and Teagan Woolhead at the drumming session. Credit: Laurie BensonPrahnee McNamara has her face painted by The Shanti Fairy. Credit: Laurie BensonSpencer Park Education Support Centre choir member Jackson Spencer. Credit: Laurie BensonJanene Freeman and Dejanna Freeman. Credit: Laurie BensonSpencer Park Education Support Centre choir. Credit: Laurie BensonThe drumming circle. Credit: Laurie Benson
Brendan Kay and Susan Mortimer in tune. Credit: Laurie BensonTuaari Amor-Kuiti leads the drumming session. Credit: Laurie BensonAngus Blake, Julie-Ann Johnston, Min Wu and Rigden Eangmo from South Regional TAFE. Credit: Laurie BensonJaxon Whitbread. Credit: Laurie BensonElisa Santini, Ian Clark and Luz Manning. Credit: Laurie BensonTuaari Amor-Kuiti and Josh Spouse. Credit: Laurie BensonEhler Paw and Htee Lahpaw. Credit: Laurie BensonEmily O'Brien, Donna Blows and Jodie James. Credit: Laurie Benson
