Speeches and Presentations Archives

I was invited by the Croydon Stroke Support Group to open Brush strokes – artworks by stroke survivors. The exhibition, located in the foyer of Maroondah Art Gallery in Federation Estate, features a range of artworks, all made by stroke survivors. Amongst the artwork, which includes paintings, scarves, dolls, woodwork and tapestry, are a number of collaborative paintings using instruments such as chopsticks, eyedroppers and cups to allow all members to contribute.

Through this artwork the Croydon Stroke Support Group has helped re-engage members of our community and assist in restoring the confidence of stroke survivors. Brush Strokes will be featured at Maroondah Art Gallery until the 30th of September.

Alex Makin at the opening of bushstrokes - artworks by stroke survivors

A 2008 calendar, which features the work displayed at the exhibition is available for purchase for just $15. All proceeds are returned to the Croydon Stroke Support Group, a non-profit, voluntary group that provides support and companionship for stroke survivors within Maroondah.

Please continue reading to view the speech I delivered at the opening of this exhibition.

Continue reading “Opening Brush Strokes – artworks by stroke survivors”

Maroondah’s Mobility Expo, as part of the International Day for People with Disabilities attracted over 300 attendees demonstrating that the community has an overwhelming interest in mobility issues.

The Expo provided a full day program that included:

Free scooter and wheelchair safety checks;
Trials of a low-floor bus;
Information sessions on topics such as:

Accessing public transport safely;

Road rules for motorised scooters and pedestrians;

Advice from occupational therapists;

Scooter etiquette to ensure safe usage of motorised scooters and wheelchairs;

A number of vendors were also available allowing participants to try various motorised scooters and accessibility aids.Maroondah’s Mobility Expo succeeded in its aim in promoting equity and assisting people with mobility aids to participate in society with confidence.

The Mobility Expo was made possible due to the work of Maroondah’s MetroAccess worker, Katie Goodrope, Trisha Matthes who was assisting Katie, and the Scoot Wheel ‘N’ Move working group, which consisted of community volunteers dedicated to raising awareness and improving accessibility within Maroondah.

In addition, the booklet Maintaining Your Mobility in Maroondah was launched the Expo. This booklet which provides advice on using mobility aids such as scooters and wheelchairs, was created by the Scoot Wheel ‘N’ Move working and reflects the first hand experiences of members within the group. The booklet was launched by Angela Fitzpatrick, a long time community volunteer, who was awarded a Deakin Community Australia Day Award in 2006.

On behalf of the Scoot Wheel ‘N’ Move working group I was invited to officially launch the Expo and MC the proceedings.

My opening speech was as follows:

Continue reading “Maroondah Mobility Expo demonstrates community interest in accessibility”