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Free film on big screen at Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre for Social Inclusion Week

Bass Coast Shire Council has partnered with Gippsland Disability Advocacy (GDA) to celebrate Social Inclusion Week and International Day of People with Disability.

By news@gippsland - 12th November 2021 - Back to News

On Monday, 29 November, a free screening of the film 'Remote Connections' and launch of Council's 'Access, Equity and Inclusion in Bass Coast Plan 2021-2025' will be held at the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre from 10.30am.

Access for all creates opportunities for more people to be more involved in community life and to reach their unique potential

Issues identified by community members

Bass Coast Shire Mayor, Cr Brett Tessari said that Social Inclusion Week (20 to 28 November) and International Day of People with Disability (3 December) encourages communities to reconnect, be inclusive of all and celebrate the achievements and contributions of people with disability. "We are also excited to be launching our 'Access, Equity and Inclusion in Bass Coast Plan', which was adopted at our October Council Meeting," Cr Tessari said.

"The Plan outlines the key actions council will undertake over the next four years, in partnership with our community, to address the priority access and inclusion issues identified by community members with disability, their families and carers, and service providers in Bass Coast."

Experiences local people with disability

GDA's Executive Officer, Adrian Terranova said that the film emphasises the experiences local people with disability encountered during COVID-19 through candid conversations, with the aim of breaking down the barriers experienced by people with disability, raising awareness of the vulnerabilities they experienced during the pandemic, addressing stereotypical views and providing practical solutions.

"The pandemic has further accentuated the loneliness, social isolation and vulnerability many people with disabilities in Bass Coast encounter, particularly in navigating everyday tasks and activities, and accessing services," Adrian said.

Celebration of community inclusion and coming together

GDA Disability Advocate and Project Officer Kristin Nuske said the stars of the film spoke at the launch, held earlier this year. "It will be so worthwhile to come back together now to hear more, build on what we have learnt so far and to understand how we can support our communities in the future. This event will be a real celebration of community inclusion and coming together," Kristin said.

A free light lunch will be provided following the screening of the film. Bookings for seating and catering purposes are required by Thursday, 25 November. To book, visit social inclusion access. The film will be screened with open captions for people who are hard of hearing or deaf.

Pictures from Bass Coast Shire Council website.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com