By Oliver Lees
Disability sector experts and people living with disabilities in the Macedon Ranges are voicing their ideas to promote inclusion in the shire.
Last week Macedon Ranges council called on the community to provide ideas to help form its Disability Action Plan 2021-25, with the aim to “reduce barriers and increase participation” for people living with disabilities.
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participant Conor O’Keefe lives with Down Syndrome and says he enjoys living in the Macedon Ranges, but isn’t sure he’ll stay long term.
Since moving to Kyneton from Melbourne three years ago, Mr O’Keefe has found employment in customer service at an op-shop in Bendigo and a copy centre near his home.
Mr O’Keefe has also pursued his passion for singing and dancing through the BoilOver Performance Ensemble, an inclusive performance company available to residents on an NDIS plan.
“I do love Kyneton, my mum’s here,” he said.
“But I would like to move back to Melbourne one day.”
Mr O’Keefe’s mother, Deborah Warr, said it has been difficult at times finding local services for her son.
“The NDIS system is a market based system and there is not really a market in country areas,” Ms Warr said.
“Services are spread over such a big area… we’ve been told there aren’t enough staff or that all their cases are full.
“Also trying to find housing now is very difficult with a lot of people moving here. I think council could play a part in helping provide housing services for people.
“Transport is also super important. He really wants to be independent and live a normal life like everyone else.”
Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health community connections manager Carly Visscher said the organisation provides small group supported bus trip programs for outing to different areas to help bridge the issue of transport.
“Lack of transport is the number one barrier to good quality healthcare and social interaction, especially for those with a disability,” she said.
“We have some great outdoor attractions in the Macedon Ranges but so many of them do not have fully accessible paths or dedicated disability parking.”
Macedon Ranges council will be conducting online sessions and surveys for community members to provide feedback throughout August and September.
Details: mrsc.vic.gov.au/yoursay
