|
This project was an initiative developed in 2004 by the City of Greater Dandenong and Leisure Link Up which focused on supporting people with disabilities from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds to access leisure activities of their own choice.
The project identified that participation levels in leisure by people with disabilities from CALD backgrounds were low in Greater Dandenong. It also determined that sport and leisure service providers experienced difficulty in engaging people from the target group into leisure.
The project researched the reasons for this lack of participation then developed a model (Inclusive Model for Leisure) for including people with disabilities. The model can be used by sports and leisure providers alike to address the issues raised by the project, action research was also conducted to test the model.
Council worked with the South Eastern Region Migrant Resource Center and the Eastern Region Mental Health Association who already had established trusted relationships with individuals who were experiencing isolation.
The results of the action research are documented in the form of a photographic exhibition called “Journeys”. The exhibition shows at a glance the journeys 20 participants have made from isolation back to participation in community life in the leisure pursuit of their choice.
The photographic exhibition which has hung in one of Council’s high profile meeting rooms has proved successful in raising the issues associated with participation by people from the target group and has provided sports and leisure providers alike with encouragement to set up projects using the model.
In 2006, Council has begun to work with the Dandenong Aboriginal Cooperative and the Oasis Swim Centre to undertake a program using the model. The program has been an outstanding success, and in 2007 council will be documenting the process and recording as a digital story presentation.
| Eastern Region Mental Health Association (ERMHA) set up a walking group to assist people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds living with a mental illness. The walking! group allows people to work together to reduce isolation at the same time promoting walking as an option for leisure.
|
|
With the added support of ERMHA staff, individuals from this dedicated walking group have chosen to join the Ramblers walking group at Noble Park Community Centre. They are not only gaining the physical benefits walking offers, but are extending their social connections within which new friendships are now developing.
|
|
Walking group members have grown in confidence having started a journey to move away from their lonely and isolated existence. They have begun to explore and enjoy the range of opportunities available for walkers in and around Greater Dandenong.
|
|
The walking group, made up of people who live with a mental illness, joined the 4th Annual MIDDWAY Walk and Festival for Mental Health in 2005. Members carried banners with messages in their own languages designed to encourage other people from similar backgrounds to enjoy the health benefits associated with walking, and to break down barriers surrounding mental illness.
|
|
Ms Jom, originally from China and East Timor respectively, had a desire to pursue her interest in cooking whilst recovering from a car accident. The project encouraged her to attend Chisholm TAFE to complete a Safe Food Handling Course and linked her to the Scott Street Day Centre. She now volunteers at a nursing home and loves cooking Chinese food for the residents.
|
|
At 95 years of age, Mr. Basic from Bosnia has always been socially active but language barriers and limited mobility in Australia caused him to feel isolated. The project allowed him to record his own CD with 10 songs in the Bosnian language. He now promotes his CD to family members and the community.
|
|
Sixty-nine year old Mr. Hanna from Egypt felt socially isolated despite loving other peoples company. Proud of his independence and in need to improve his physical strength, the project supported Mr. Hanna to attend an exercise class with a personal trainer. He now drives his scooter to the exercise classes.
|
|
While Ms Herbereau-De-Lachaise lives in a supported accommodation for people from Mauritius, she has struggled with depression and social isolation. Her dream was to learn painting but she never had the confidence. The project introduced her to a painting program where she enjoys exploring the many different painting techniques and interacting with fellow students.
|
| Mohamed Abboud is the youngest son of four children from Lebanon. He has battled severe Asthma since childhood and his dream was to take up Karate. The project enabled him to fulfil his dream and he has recently gained his yellow belt.
|
| Italian born Mr. Burelli’s passion has always been fishing. After a stroke Mr. Burrelli was determined to fish again and the project introduced him to an Italian speaking volunteer and linked him into the Dandenong Anglers Club. He took part in a chartered fishing trip in Western Port bay and regularly fulfils his passion.
|
| Mr. Flores, a retired panel beater from El Salvador, desperately wanted to learn new skills whilst recovering from a stroke. This was made possible thanks to his supportive wife and the program which allowed him to attend a computer course at Springvale Library. He now keeps in touch with his loved ones through his home computer.
|
For more information, contact:
Chris Stewart
Disability Planner
City of Greater Dandenong
Phone TTY (03) 9239 5153
Email cstewa@cgd.vic.gov.au.
Stephen Sparrow
Manager
Leisure LinkUp
Phone (03) 8558-7934
Email ssparrow@optionsvic.org.au
| 
