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Martin Cameron and Melina Bath celebrated as frogs in art by Statewide Autistic Services

Melina Bath highlighted frog art's connection for SASI clients and locals with disabilities. MPs enjoyed the SASI visit, embraced the frog theme, and planned to discuss expansion, industry growth, and employment at Parliament.

By news@gippsland - 14th August 2023 - Back to News

State Nationals MP's Martin Cameron and Melina Bath have had the honour of being painted as frogs by Statewide Autistic Services (SASI) Newborough. Attending the Newborough facility recently, Martin and Melina were pleased to be presented with their frog artwork by SASI staff and clients. Frogs are an important symbol to SASI's clients as they resonate with the multiple phases of growth on their learning pathway.

Melina Bath is grateful to the local artist and SASI worker Henry Young. SASI aids autism with frogs as cherished symbols of growth. Gardens display frogs' journey

Frog art tribute

The original SASI frog was named 'George' by a client and now multiple artworks adorn the driveway and gardens of its Haunted Hills Road facility in Newborough. Mr Cameron and Ms Bath said they were delighted to have their likenesses captured as SASI frogs, knowing how much the green amphibians are synonymous to the respected autism support service.

Ms Bath said, "SASI clients connect with the frogs, and being involved was a great way to acknowledge and connect with Gippslanders with a disability. Martin and I were both happy to participate and our visit to SASI was a rewarding experience."

Frogs promote inclusion

SASI's Newborough facility is home to a wide array of artwork all created by renowned Gippsland artist Henry Young. Henry is a SASI Support Worker, and his artwork bonds clients to the facility. Staying with the frog theme, Mr Cameron said he 'leapt' at the chance to become a frog model after visiting the organisation and gaining an understanding of the local disability support services.

"SASI has an important role supporting individuals with autism to access meaningful and encompassing social and learning experiences. After being presented with our frogs, Melina and I decided that they will make their way to Spring Street - our frogs will be a great way to start conversations about the disability sector and the importance of meaningful inclusion experiences," Mr Cameron said.

Disability industry growth

Following the visit, Mr Cameron and Ms Bath extended an invitation to SASI staff to attend State Parliament in recognition of their valued work and to discuss the organisation's future expansion plans and workforce challenges.

Ms Bath said the disability industry is expanding rapidly and The Nationals are keen to advocate for solutions to alleviate workforce shortages. "SASI offers many employment opportunities for anyone seeking a rewarding and stable career in the disability sector - it's important to understand the issues and promote careers in the sector."

Pictures from Melina Bath MP Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  East Gippsland Shire Council is calling for nominations to recognise local volunteers, with 2026 Honour Roll inductees celebrated during National Volunteer Week, showcasing their contributions and inspiring more people to volunteer.
• East Gippsland CMA protects Gippsland Lakes seagrass meadows through targeted conservation and Aboriginal partnership initiatives
  The East Gippsland CMA, with Australian government funding, is protecting one hectare of Gippsland Lakes seagrass, restricting vessel access, collaborating with GLaWAC, and monitoring growth for ecosystem health.
• Victorian Agency for Health Information data shows ambulance services declining due to Labor's under‑resourcing, mismanagement and denial
  The latest data shows Victoria’s ambulance service declining, with fewer than 64% of Code 1 responses within 15 minutes, highlighting regional delays, under‑resourcing, and mismanagement under the Allan Labor government.
• Wellington Early Years Expo returns, offering free family fun, services and play-based activities for young children on 30 April 2026
  The 2026 Wellington Early Years Expo returns to the Gippsland Regional Sports Complex in Sale on Thursday 30 April inviting families to enjoy an afternoon of learning and connection for children aged 0–5 years.
• West Gippsland CMA welcomes expressions of interest for Contractor Panel Services 2026-2029 until 15 May 2026
  Expressions of Interest invited for WGCMA contractor panel (2026–2029), closing 15 May 2026, covering fencing, weed control, revegetation, and earthmoving services with full documentation required for submission.
• Labor government delivers $2.73M Sale Hospital upgrade, modernising Community Services building for Gippsland healthcare staff
  The Allan Labor government is delivering a $2.73 million upgrade to Sale Hospital's historic Community Services Building, modernising facilities for healthcare workers, patients, and students through the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund.
• Danny O’Brien congratulates Gippsland Volunteer Emergency Services on VESEP funding support
  Danny O’Brien praised Gippsland volunteer emergency services for VESEP funding, supporting vital equipment, facility upgrades, and ongoing advocacy for a new Port Welshpool Coast Guard vessel to ensure community safety.
• Latrobe City Australia Day Awards 2026 honoured locals’ achievements, service, and community leadership
  Latrobe City celebrated the 2026 Australia Day Awards, recognising locals’ dedication, leadership, and community contributions across service, events, youth, senior, and citizen categories.