When local disability organisations support each other, everyone wins.
Last Friday a group of Special Olympics Tasmania athletes and coaches headed off to the
Victoria State games, proudly supported by a donation from fellow disability organisation, Nexus.
Raising $1000 from a staff fundraising initiative, Nexus wanted to donate to a local organisation with
the same values and goal of supporting Tasmanians with disability to live the life they choose.
“It’s really important to continue having accessible sport and recreation opportunities available in
Tassie, not just for Nexus clients but for all other Tasmanians living with disability,” said Nexus
Assistant Team Leader Dan Chevalier, who was at the airport to see the team off on their trip.
“Special Olympics Tasmania are doing such great work and we’re really pleased to be able to add to
their funds for this trip.”
Special Olympics Tasmania Chair Kath Thomson said Nexus’ generous donation highlighted the
importance of collaboration in opening doors to all those living with disability.
“It helps to work together as you can achieve more in a group approach,” Kath said.
“The support you get from other workers in the industry allows you to bounce around different
ideas, opens you up to suggestions and other services that individuals and their families may not
have considered.”
Kath said that athletes living with disability often face financial barriers in accessing their sport.
“This donation means a lot to our athletes as many of them either do not work, or are in a supported
employment environment, so this makes it financially easier for them.”
The Tassie team had 12 participants in the Victorian state games held on July 1 and July 2, with
athletes competing in ten bowling, swimming and bocce.
“They love the excitement of participating. It doesn’t matter whether you win a medal or you just go
there to have some fun, rekindle friendships and build new connections,” Kath said.