Hi, I'm Simon and.

Hi, I'm Simon and.

I'm Abby, and you're listening to In Plain Sight, a program where we talk to people making a positive impact in the community and disability sector, shining a light on those who might otherwise be hidden in plain.

I'm Abby, and you're listening to In Plain Sight, a program where we talk to people making a positive impact in the community and disability sector, shining a light on those who might otherwise be hidden in plain.

Sight. And it's our pleasure to bring these really fabulous stories to you on a weekly basis here on Vision Australia Radio. Hi, this is Simon. Welcome to the show, folks, and I'm here with my co-host Abby. Hi, Abby.

Sight. And it's our pleasure to bring these really fabulous stories to you on a weekly basis here on Vision Australia Radio. Hi, this is Simon. Welcome to the show, folks, and I'm here with my co-host Abby. Hi, Abby.

Hello, everyone. Welcome.

Hello, everyone. Welcome.

And what's happening this week, Abby. So I want.

And what's happening this week, Abby. So I want.

To start by looking back at someone that we spoke to last year, a wonderful and talented para dancer by the name of Heidi Prendeville. Now Heidi is going to Hong Kong at the end of March to qualify for the World Para Dance Championships, which will be held in November, and she is one of five couples from Perth making up the Australian team. Now this team is hosted by the Para and Ability Dance West Australia. Padwa and they plan to send an Australian team of five para dance couples, the team coach and the team manager and all of these Australian team members live in Perth, so they need all the donations and sponsorship that they can get. So if you would like to donate and you're able to help, you can look up their website padwa.org and search, donate and it'll have all the details there for how you can sponsor their trip.

To start by looking back at someone that we spoke to last year, a wonderful and talented para dancer by the name of Heidi Prendeville. Now Heidi is going to Hong Kong at the end of March to qualify for the World Para Dance Championships, which will be held in November, and she is one of five couples from Perth making up the Australian team. Now this team is hosted by the Para and Ability Dance West Australia. Padwa and they plan to send an Australian team of five para dance couples, the team coach and the team manager and all of these Australian team members live in Perth, so they need all the donations and sponsorship that they can get. So if you would like to donate and you're able to help, you can look up their website padwa.org and search, donate and it'll have all the details there for how you can sponsor their trip.

That's right. And it was fabulous to talk with Heidi when we did. And I really enjoy and appreciate the para dancing and really want to get behind this team and these people doing this wonderful sport and dance.

That's right. And it was fabulous to talk with Heidi when we did. And I really enjoy and appreciate the para dancing and really want to get behind this team and these people doing this wonderful sport and dance.

So please, if you're able to whatever you can give or donate or help out, it's really, really good cause.

So please, if you're able to whatever you can give or donate or help out, it's really, really good cause.

So we will give the details of that information about where to find Padwa and the Peridance Association on the podcast details, notes as well. So look out for that.

So we will give the details of that information about where to find Padwa and the Peridance Association on the podcast details, notes as well. So look out for that.

Now who's our guest today? Simon.

Now who's our guest today? Simon.

Our guest today is Vanessa Jessop. Vanessa is the communications manager at people with disabilities. Western Australia, PWD, WA. And she'll be telling us all about what's happening at PWA. There's been a lot going on and there's a lot ahead, and we're really looking forward to finding out what's happening there. And I'd like to also help support these organisations that help support us in the community. And it's good to also instill a sense of community amongst people with disabilities and everybody as well. As we just mentioned previously about the community of para dancers, in this case, there's a community of people who are interested in advancing the rights and dignity of people who have a disability by getting involved with an organization that provides advocacy for all people with a disability in Western Australia. And we look forward to a really fabulous and engaging conversation from the wonderful Vanessa Jessop.

Our guest today is Vanessa Jessop. Vanessa is the communications manager at people with disabilities. Western Australia, PWD, WA. And she'll be telling us all about what's happening at PWA. There's been a lot going on and there's a lot ahead, and we're really looking forward to finding out what's happening there. And I'd like to also help support these organisations that help support us in the community. And it's good to also instill a sense of community amongst people with disabilities and everybody as well. As we just mentioned previously about the community of para dancers, in this case, there's a community of people who are interested in advancing the rights and dignity of people who have a disability by getting involved with an organization that provides advocacy for all people with a disability in Western Australia. And we look forward to a really fabulous and engaging conversation from the wonderful Vanessa Jessop.

Yeah, so Pwwa is a really great organisation and it makes a huge impact on the community. And because of this reason, Vanessa Jessop, who we have spoken to before, will be a regular guest on our show, just to keep us updated with what's happening with the organisation and even in the community and the differences that she's helping to make.

Yeah, so Pwwa is a really great organisation and it makes a huge impact on the community. And because of this reason, Vanessa Jessop, who we have spoken to before, will be a regular guest on our show, just to keep us updated with what's happening with the organisation and even in the community and the differences that she's helping to make.

Yep. So keep your eye on that. And because the Pwwa have lots of events, workshops and seminars and the like that keeps the community informed and engaged. So thanks. I hope you enjoy. Today. Our special guest is Vanessa Jessop. Vanessa is the communications officer at people with disabilities, Western Australia, PWA and we'd like to welcome Vanessa here today. Hi, Vanessa.

Yep. So keep your eye on that. And because the Pwwa have lots of events, workshops and seminars and the like that keeps the community informed and engaged. So thanks. I hope you enjoy. Today. Our special guest is Vanessa Jessop. Vanessa is the communications officer at people with disabilities, Western Australia, PWA and we'd like to welcome Vanessa here today. Hi, Vanessa.

Hi, Simon. Thank you for having me back.

Hi, Simon. Thank you for having me back.

Thanks for joining us. Now lot's happened in PWD, WA recently. And one of the things that's changed is you've got a new role and a fancy new title. What's your fancy new title.

Thanks for joining us. Now lot's happened in PWD, WA recently. And one of the things that's changed is you've got a new role and a fancy new title. What's your fancy new title.

Vanessa. It's a very fancy. It's very long. More than anything it's the organisational development and engagement manager. So, uh, yes, it's just saying, basically that I still get to, um, engage with all our members and get to do all that, but I'm going to be doing a lot more engagement out in the public space as well.

Vanessa. It's a very fancy. It's very long. More than anything it's the organisational development and engagement manager. So, uh, yes, it's just saying, basically that I still get to, um, engage with all our members and get to do all that, but I'm going to be doing a lot more engagement out in the public space as well.

Give us some examples of some of the engagement that you do personally for the organisation and that PWA does in the area of, um, people with disabilities to engage them.

Give us some examples of some of the engagement that you do personally for the organisation and that PWA does in the area of, um, people with disabilities to engage them.

Well thank you. Um, so at the moment, the big one is obviously we can announce that we have been given some funding and the conference 2025 is going to go ahead. So that's going to be on June the 19th and 20th.

Well thank you. Um, so at the moment, the big one is obviously we can announce that we have been given some funding and the conference 2025 is going to go ahead. So that's going to be on June the 19th and 20th.

We'll talk about that in detail a bit later on.

We'll talk about that in detail a bit later on.

We will. And the other one we're doing is funding diversification. So it's getting really, really hard to get funding. So I've actually started going out now and I'm running workshops and training sessions in the community for businesses to teach them about disability awareness or to help them with their disability access and inclusion plans. A social stories, you know, talk about neurodiversity in the workplace and co-design, of course, as you know, Simon, I'm really big on co-design, making sure that the environment is designed with the voice of people with disability in mind and then also offering tailor made ones. So if there's something that a business thinks they need to be trained on, I'm going to co-design a programme and deliver that for them. And then I've got my just member engagement. I love the members at PWA. They are some of the best people in the world. I have some great relationships with them, and what I'm trying to do is I would like to go more regional and remote and start getting out there and listening to the voice of people with disabilities and having to hear what they have to say. Now, you.

We will. And the other one we're doing is funding diversification. So it's getting really, really hard to get funding. So I've actually started going out now and I'm running workshops and training sessions in the community for businesses to teach them about disability awareness or to help them with their disability access and inclusion plans. A social stories, you know, talk about neurodiversity in the workplace and co-design, of course, as you know, Simon, I'm really big on co-design, making sure that the environment is designed with the voice of people with disability in mind and then also offering tailor made ones. So if there's something that a business thinks they need to be trained on, I'm going to co-design a programme and deliver that for them. And then I've got my just member engagement. I love the members at PWA. They are some of the best people in the world. I have some great relationships with them, and what I'm trying to do is I would like to go more regional and remote and start getting out there and listening to the voice of people with disabilities and having to hear what they have to say. Now, you.

Just mentioned co-design. I'll just pick up on that point for a starter. Can you just explain what you mean in this context? What co-design is?

Just mentioned co-design. I'll just pick up on that point for a starter. Can you just explain what you mean in this context? What co-design is?

Sure. So co-design in from PWAs point of view is when people with disability get to sit in on a project, on a building, on on how a new park is going to be designed, on how documents are made, you know, what documents have to say, and they actually give their voice. So they explain why it might be necessary for something to be designed in a certain way, to make it accessible and inclusive for people with disability and allow them to participate in the community.

Sure. So co-design in from PWAs point of view is when people with disability get to sit in on a project, on a building, on on how a new park is going to be designed, on how documents are made, you know, what documents have to say, and they actually give their voice. So they explain why it might be necessary for something to be designed in a certain way, to make it accessible and inclusive for people with disability and allow them to participate in the community.

Now, one of the things I've always appreciated and enjoyed about PWA Is that the whole organization is co-designed, in effect from the members. From who the members are all people with a disability and associated members with lived experience as well. So I like that fact. You know that the board members who own cents, own the organization, are all designing the organization from the ground up because they are people with a disability themselves. Yep.

Now, one of the things I've always appreciated and enjoyed about PWA Is that the whole organization is co-designed, in effect from the members. From who the members are all people with a disability and associated members with lived experience as well. So I like that fact. You know that the board members who own cents, own the organization, are all designing the organization from the ground up because they are people with a disability themselves. Yep.

Yeah. So PWAs are Catchcry obviously is for people with disability by people with disability. Many of our staff have disability or like myself, are the parents of somebody with disability. And also to be a full member in our organisation and membership is free. But to be a full member, you must be a person with disability and the only people that can serve on our board are people are full members. So we're ensuring that the voice of Disability actually is heard, and it's actually a very integral part of who we are. It's fundamental to PWAs makeup. We've got a great new board that came was voted in in October. They're very active, um, really engaging. And so I'm looking forward to the next 12 months because I think there's going to be some great things coming out of PWA.

Yeah. So PWAs are Catchcry obviously is for people with disability by people with disability. Many of our staff have disability or like myself, are the parents of somebody with disability. And also to be a full member in our organisation and membership is free. But to be a full member, you must be a person with disability and the only people that can serve on our board are people are full members. So we're ensuring that the voice of Disability actually is heard, and it's actually a very integral part of who we are. It's fundamental to PWAs makeup. We've got a great new board that came was voted in in October. They're very active, um, really engaging. And so I'm looking forward to the next 12 months because I think there's going to be some great things coming out of PWA.

Yes, yes. And just a reminder. So the board gets voted in and the AGM, which is a yearly thing of course. And but you know connect with Vanessa and we'll give you the details on how to do that later on in the program and in the podcast details also. But uh, do get involved and, and see if you want to become a board member later on down the track. Now, Vanessa, tell us, um, you you mentioned the conference and we will talk about that in detail a bit later on. But you just mentioned you've got a new board, but there are also other staffing changes since we've last spoke, can you tell us about where we're at with with all that?

Yes, yes. And just a reminder. So the board gets voted in and the AGM, which is a yearly thing of course. And but you know connect with Vanessa and we'll give you the details on how to do that later on in the program and in the podcast details also. But uh, do get involved and, and see if you want to become a board member later on down the track. Now, Vanessa, tell us, um, you you mentioned the conference and we will talk about that in detail a bit later on. But you just mentioned you've got a new board, but there are also other staffing changes since we've last spoke, can you tell us about where we're at with with all that?

Sure. So our CEO, Brendan Cullinan, semi-retired, I guess, and resigned from PWA. And we currently have an interim CEO in Kat Jones. Now, Kat actually was a board member for a for a long time, about six years. And Kat has now moved into the interim CEO position. Absolutely amazing job. Very, very dedicated and passionate about PWA and has started to make some changes. So actually brought in some short term staff contracts to try and address the waitlist that we have for advocacy at the moment, because we do realize a couple of other advocacy organizations did close, and so we needed to pick that up. Yes, obviously, we also took over explore ability. So we've kind of had to branch out into the wheat belt and things like that. So Kat's addressing those issues, and Katz also brought on a systemic advocate to try and get out there a bit more so that we can hear that voice. Obviously, it's an election year, so we really want to get the word of and and the feelings of people with disability, and we want to be able to take those to the government and say, this is what the disability community in WA needs.

Sure. So our CEO, Brendan Cullinan, semi-retired, I guess, and resigned from PWA. And we currently have an interim CEO in Kat Jones. Now, Kat actually was a board member for a for a long time, about six years. And Kat has now moved into the interim CEO position. Absolutely amazing job. Very, very dedicated and passionate about PWA and has started to make some changes. So actually brought in some short term staff contracts to try and address the waitlist that we have for advocacy at the moment, because we do realize a couple of other advocacy organizations did close, and so we needed to pick that up. Yes, obviously, we also took over explore ability. So we've kind of had to branch out into the wheat belt and things like that. So Kat's addressing those issues, and Katz also brought on a systemic advocate to try and get out there a bit more so that we can hear that voice. Obviously, it's an election year, so we really want to get the word of and and the feelings of people with disability, and we want to be able to take those to the government and say, this is what the disability community in WA needs.

Some of the other initiatives happening in PWA at the moment. Vanessa.

Some of the other initiatives happening in PWA at the moment. Vanessa.

Oh, we're just at the moment, we're just working really hard on focusing on making sure that people are getting advocacy. You know, obviously individual advocacy is really, really important at the moment. There are a lot of people being left behind. And so making sure, um, we've got lots of advocates having to go to the state tribunal, unfortunately, or doing the appeals through the appeals for people. Um, and then we're doing some other ones that I can't really talk about. But, you know, they're working really, really hard. We've got the most amazing bunch of people advocates at PWA, and it takes my breath away when I see how hard and how dedicated they are and how passionate. Yes, to make sure the voice of people with disabilities is not ignored. And it's one of the reasons I love to go to my my job every day is to engage with these amazing people.

Oh, we're just at the moment, we're just working really hard on focusing on making sure that people are getting advocacy. You know, obviously individual advocacy is really, really important at the moment. There are a lot of people being left behind. And so making sure, um, we've got lots of advocates having to go to the state tribunal, unfortunately, or doing the appeals through the appeals for people. Um, and then we're doing some other ones that I can't really talk about. But, you know, they're working really, really hard. We've got the most amazing bunch of people advocates at PWA, and it takes my breath away when I see how hard and how dedicated they are and how passionate. Yes, to make sure the voice of people with disabilities is not ignored. And it's one of the reasons I love to go to my my job every day is to engage with these amazing people.

And now when you go to your job, are you actually going to a building and an office yet? You know, it's a bugbear of mine, don't you?

And now when you go to your job, are you actually going to a building and an office yet? You know, it's a bugbear of mine, don't you?

I know it is, Simon. I am actually looking really, really hard. I've been to lots and lots of buildings. I've been walking all around and engaging with different, um, real estate agents. It's about accessibility and it's once again, it's our bugbear. We want, you know, we want to show people PWA wants to be a leader when it comes to accessibility. We want to be the gold standard. Yes. And so if I go in I'm looking at um, a building I want to make sure that the toilets, not just an And an accessible toilet. It's an accessible toilet that has the right buttons on it that it has left and right. Um, you know, um, opening mechanisms. I want to make sure that it it suits everybody. It's got everything that needs to, uh, to make a really accessible building. And unfortunately, because the standards aren't there within the government, it's really, really hard to find those things. It is um, and I've been to some buildings where I've thought, oh, that's really great. And they've turned around and said, oh, but if you want, you know, I just need to do a few things. I need to make the toilet more accessible. They're like, well, that will be on you. That that cost is on you, which I just think is wrong for any building owner to expect, um, people to actually make the environment accessible. That building should already be accessible.

I know it is, Simon. I am actually looking really, really hard. I've been to lots and lots of buildings. I've been walking all around and engaging with different, um, real estate agents. It's about accessibility and it's once again, it's our bugbear. We want, you know, we want to show people PWA wants to be a leader when it comes to accessibility. We want to be the gold standard. Yes. And so if I go in I'm looking at um, a building I want to make sure that the toilets, not just an And an accessible toilet. It's an accessible toilet that has the right buttons on it that it has left and right. Um, you know, um, opening mechanisms. I want to make sure that it it suits everybody. It's got everything that needs to, uh, to make a really accessible building. And unfortunately, because the standards aren't there within the government, it's really, really hard to find those things. It is um, and I've been to some buildings where I've thought, oh, that's really great. And they've turned around and said, oh, but if you want, you know, I just need to do a few things. I need to make the toilet more accessible. They're like, well, that will be on you. That that cost is on you, which I just think is wrong for any building owner to expect, um, people to actually make the environment accessible. That building should already be accessible.

Indeed.

Indeed.

You're currently listening to In Plain Sight on Vision Australia Radio with Simon and Abby, and this week we are speaking to Vanessa Jessett, Communications Officer for people with disabilities, WA.

You're currently listening to In Plain Sight on Vision Australia Radio with Simon and Abby, and this week we are speaking to Vanessa Jessett, Communications Officer for people with disabilities, WA.

Now off air. You mentioned a friend of the show and you said, don't know if we can talk about that, that she's now working, doing some work with you guys.

Now off air. You mentioned a friend of the show and you said, don't know if we can talk about that, that she's now working, doing some work with you guys.

Uh, Taylor.

Uh, Taylor.

Taylor. Taylor.

Taylor. Taylor.

Yes. So PWA has recently taken on a few new people. We've, um, taken on some people for very. Six month short term contract. And that's to address, as we said earlier, the backlog of, um, people on the wait list of people wanting to have advocacy. So Taylor is one of the people that we actually took on.

Yes. So PWA has recently taken on a few new people. We've, um, taken on some people for very. Six month short term contract. And that's to address, as we said earlier, the backlog of, um, people on the wait list of people wanting to have advocacy. So Taylor is one of the people that we actually took on.

Taylor, who's been on our programme a few times on one of our lovely guests.

Taylor, who's been on our programme a few times on one of our lovely guests.

Yes.

Yes.

So we appreciate.

So we appreciate.

Yes. And Taylor's come on as an information officer. So when you call PWA looking for some information or looking to actually speak with a, um, an advocate. Taylor's going to be there taking your information.

Yes. And Taylor's come on as an information officer. So when you call PWA looking for some information or looking to actually speak with a, um, an advocate. Taylor's going to be there taking your information.

Now, that leads me nicely into the conference, because that's where I met Taylor in the first place many years ago. And she she came across as this lively, energetic, passionate, dedicated person, full of full of beans and really keen to participate in what was going on. So we might go into what's what's happening with the conference this year. Vanessa, where are we up to and what's the plans and where is it being held and all that.

Now, that leads me nicely into the conference, because that's where I met Taylor in the first place many years ago. And she she came across as this lively, energetic, passionate, dedicated person, full of full of beans and really keen to participate in what was going on. So we might go into what's what's happening with the conference this year. Vanessa, where are we up to and what's the plans and where is it being held and all that.

So firstly, I agree about Taylor. There was a great photo from that conference, which actually ended up a couple of years later on our annual report. So that was fabulous. So the conference this year is going to be at the Esplanade, Fremantle. And the reason we've chosen that is because I have been around to, I think, every single place in, in Perth to try and find an accessible, um, building for us. Obviously our last ones were at the Telethon Speech and Hearing Centre and Pwwa made a misstep and we apologize for that misstep. And that was we actually offended some people in the deaf community due to a the belief that Auslan should not be used and that perhaps, you know, learning how to speak and wearing a cochlear implant is a better way to go. And PWA acknowledged that misstep. We didn't know about that. There were some other issues with the building as well. There was a fire alarm, and we had about eight people on the first floor who were wheelchair users, and then obviously it was quite a noisy building. So people with sensory issues, um, didn't enjoy the all the, all the feedback and stuff like that. So we've chosen the Esplanade down in Fremantle. It's going to be on June 19th and 20th. What I can say at this stage, I can't give you ticket prices or anything, but if you are a member or a full member of PWA, there will be a discounted price. Um, membership is free. So if you're not a member and you're thinking, well, I might like to go to this conference, then get on the website. Join us.

So firstly, I agree about Taylor. There was a great photo from that conference, which actually ended up a couple of years later on our annual report. So that was fabulous. So the conference this year is going to be at the Esplanade, Fremantle. And the reason we've chosen that is because I have been around to, I think, every single place in, in Perth to try and find an accessible, um, building for us. Obviously our last ones were at the Telethon Speech and Hearing Centre and Pwwa made a misstep and we apologize for that misstep. And that was we actually offended some people in the deaf community due to a the belief that Auslan should not be used and that perhaps, you know, learning how to speak and wearing a cochlear implant is a better way to go. And PWA acknowledged that misstep. We didn't know about that. There were some other issues with the building as well. There was a fire alarm, and we had about eight people on the first floor who were wheelchair users, and then obviously it was quite a noisy building. So people with sensory issues, um, didn't enjoy the all the, all the feedback and stuff like that. So we've chosen the Esplanade down in Fremantle. It's going to be on June 19th and 20th. What I can say at this stage, I can't give you ticket prices or anything, but if you are a member or a full member of PWA, there will be a discounted price. Um, membership is free. So if you're not a member and you're thinking, well, I might like to go to this conference, then get on the website. Join us.

Tell us now how to get on to the website and what your details are.

Tell us now how to get on to the website and what your details are.

PWA. Org. That's our website and it's a it's a great new website. We actually had Doctor Scott Hollier go through it, um, from the center of accessibility. So it is quite accessible. But I think as I said last time on your show, if anybody ever finds any information of ours that's not accessible, please let me know. I want to address that situation and fix it straight away. Um, so you can become a member through there. Um, this year the conference is going to be on participate and contribute, which is one of the pillars of the state strategy. Um, and that covers education and training, employment leadership and high complex needs. Um, and actually, to address that, one of the things and one of the reasons I've decided that the Esplanade would be a great place to go is because they actually have accessible hotel rooms. And one of the things that we've noticed is a lack of adult change facilities. So people who might need adult change facilities are often left to get changed on the toilet floor of of a accessible bathroom, and we don't think that's good enough. That takes away from someone's dignity. So we're going to actually be hiring out these bedrooms or the hotel room and using that as an adult change facility. So anybody with high complex needs can feel that they can come along and participate in in the conference. At the moment where we're at is we've got a call for content out. So if you think you have something that you want, the people with disability or the disability community of Western Australia to know about, then if you go onto our website, go under. I think I've put it under events or news and you can actually find out how to get in and register your submission to for the call to conference.

PWA. Org. That's our website and it's a it's a great new website. We actually had Doctor Scott Hollier go through it, um, from the center of accessibility. So it is quite accessible. But I think as I said last time on your show, if anybody ever finds any information of ours that's not accessible, please let me know. I want to address that situation and fix it straight away. Um, so you can become a member through there. Um, this year the conference is going to be on participate and contribute, which is one of the pillars of the state strategy. Um, and that covers education and training, employment leadership and high complex needs. Um, and actually, to address that, one of the things and one of the reasons I've decided that the Esplanade would be a great place to go is because they actually have accessible hotel rooms. And one of the things that we've noticed is a lack of adult change facilities. So people who might need adult change facilities are often left to get changed on the toilet floor of of a accessible bathroom, and we don't think that's good enough. That takes away from someone's dignity. So we're going to actually be hiring out these bedrooms or the hotel room and using that as an adult change facility. So anybody with high complex needs can feel that they can come along and participate in in the conference. At the moment where we're at is we've got a call for content out. So if you think you have something that you want, the people with disability or the disability community of Western Australia to know about, then if you go onto our website, go under. I think I've put it under events or news and you can actually find out how to get in and register your submission to for the call to conference.

Notice on the website. It's on the home page.

Notice on the website. It's on the home page.

Our home page as well. Oh that's great. Simon knows the website page better than me today and that needs to be in by the 14th of February. Obviously, when it comes to what type of content we want, we want it. Things that are actually going to, um, give people with disability a um, knowledge and, and build on, on their skills. And we're also looking for things that are co-designed by people with disability and delivered by or alongside of a person with disability. Because I think it's really important to understand that, that from our point of view, this is what makes our conference unique. Um, here in Australia is we're one of the few in the world that is designed by people with disability, for people with disability. And as you know, Simon, you have been on the conference reference group in previous years. You're a lot busier nowadays, so you're not on it this time. Um, it is led completely by people with disability. I just run around and do what they want me to do. They tell me what they want to, to hear and what to see, and I go and make sure that that is, is, um, done. So that's what's happening so far.

Our home page as well. Oh that's great. Simon knows the website page better than me today and that needs to be in by the 14th of February. Obviously, when it comes to what type of content we want, we want it. Things that are actually going to, um, give people with disability a um, knowledge and, and build on, on their skills. And we're also looking for things that are co-designed by people with disability and delivered by or alongside of a person with disability. Because I think it's really important to understand that, that from our point of view, this is what makes our conference unique. Um, here in Australia is we're one of the few in the world that is designed by people with disability, for people with disability. And as you know, Simon, you have been on the conference reference group in previous years. You're a lot busier nowadays, so you're not on it this time. Um, it is led completely by people with disability. I just run around and do what they want me to do. They tell me what they want to, to hear and what to see, and I go and make sure that that is, is, um, done. So that's what's happening so far.

So remind us again what this year's theme is and when the closing date is for the call of content. Okay.

So remind us again what this year's theme is and when the closing date is for the call of content. Okay.

So this year's day this year is participate and contribute. So we're talking about education and training, employment leadership and high complex needs. And the core to complex content will close on the 14th of February.

So this year's day this year is participate and contribute. So we're talking about education and training, employment leadership and high complex needs. And the core to complex content will close on the 14th of February.

And how has things been going with it so far?

And how has things been going with it so far?

It's going really great there. Looks like there's been some fabulous, um, submissions put in, but obviously we want to give as wide a choice as possible to, um, to people with disabilities. So if anyone has any questions, then email me Vanessa Apworg and I will help you out.

It's going really great there. Looks like there's been some fabulous, um, submissions put in, but obviously we want to give as wide a choice as possible to, um, to people with disabilities. So if anyone has any questions, then email me Vanessa Apworg and I will help you out.

Now this program goes out nationally and it's a podcast. It goes out worldwide. Um, I don't think we can afford to bring anyone in from overseas. But there is the internet, a thing called the internet where people might be able to contribute. Are you open to taking in contributors from outside of Perth as well?

Now this program goes out nationally and it's a podcast. It goes out worldwide. Um, I don't think we can afford to bring anyone in from overseas. But there is the internet, a thing called the internet where people might be able to contribute. Are you open to taking in contributors from outside of Perth as well?

That would very much depend on the conference reference group. It's their decision. If people have something to say then fill it in. Yes. Most definitely. Um, we are actually really wanting to hear from regional, rural and remote West Australians. Um, I've recently, um, got just yesterday actually put in for a Lotterys West grant to try and help people from regional, rural and remote Western Australia. Um, get to the conference. So I'd keep your eyes out for that one people. Or, you know, hopefully we will be hearing something about that shortly. Um, and, um, yeah. So that's what's happening.

That would very much depend on the conference reference group. It's their decision. If people have something to say then fill it in. Yes. Most definitely. Um, we are actually really wanting to hear from regional, rural and remote West Australians. Um, I've recently, um, got just yesterday actually put in for a Lotterys West grant to try and help people from regional, rural and remote Western Australia. Um, get to the conference. So I'd keep your eyes out for that one people. Or, you know, hopefully we will be hearing something about that shortly. Um, and, um, yeah. So that's what's happening.

That's excellent. Now, we are very good talk, as you and I, Vanessa. So we do. We've quickly running out of time. Is there anything else we need to know about people with disabilities, West Australia that we haven't yet mentioned that it would be important for people to know.

That's excellent. Now, we are very good talk, as you and I, Vanessa. So we do. We've quickly running out of time. Is there anything else we need to know about people with disabilities, West Australia that we haven't yet mentioned that it would be important for people to know.

I just would really like to remind people with disability out in Western Australia that we are here for you. We have been around since 1981. We're not going anywhere. Um, and, you know, we really want to make sure that your voice is heard. So please become a member, participate in our organisation, make sure that your voice is heard. Participate in our forums. I'm going to be holding a few forums in the next few months. So have you.

I just would really like to remind people with disability out in Western Australia that we are here for you. We have been around since 1981. We're not going anywhere. Um, and, you know, we really want to make sure that your voice is heard. So please become a member, participate in our organisation, make sure that your voice is heard. Participate in our forums. I'm going to be holding a few forums in the next few months. So have you.

Got anything like that lined up? I'm in the immediate future.

Got anything like that lined up? I'm in the immediate future.

I'm actually in the planning stage. Simon, I have been running around trying to get the conference up and running. We had very short notice. I've actually only found out two weeks ago that I got the funding for the conference, so everything has been focused on that, but I'm going to be stepping back a little bit from that. I found, um, an amazing person, Candice, who is a person with disability who also is an event organiser, and Candice is going to come on and help me with that one. So I'm going to start focusing on making sure that engagement with our members and with the communities out there. So please follow me on Facebook or follow PWD on Facebook, follow the website, sign up for our newsletters.

I'm actually in the planning stage. Simon, I have been running around trying to get the conference up and running. We had very short notice. I've actually only found out two weeks ago that I got the funding for the conference, so everything has been focused on that, but I'm going to be stepping back a little bit from that. I found, um, an amazing person, Candice, who is a person with disability who also is an event organiser, and Candice is going to come on and help me with that one. So I'm going to start focusing on making sure that engagement with our members and with the communities out there. So please follow me on Facebook or follow PWD on Facebook, follow the website, sign up for our newsletters.

But you also have a newsletter. Yes. Tell us about that.

But you also have a newsletter. Yes. Tell us about that.

So newsletters I am changing to every two months at the moment because I'm just it is quite challenging at the moment to try and get everything done. Uh, even with my fancy new title. Um, trying to get everything done. So the newsletters will come out every two months. But my social media, I'm still working really hard on. The only thing I will say is the board has recently given me permission to close our Twitter account, and we've made that decision based on the the person who owns it. His opinion on people with disability. That is not a I.

So newsletters I am changing to every two months at the moment because I'm just it is quite challenging at the moment to try and get everything done. Uh, even with my fancy new title. Um, trying to get everything done. So the newsletters will come out every two months. But my social media, I'm still working really hard on. The only thing I will say is the board has recently given me permission to close our Twitter account, and we've made that decision based on the the person who owns it. His opinion on people with disability. That is not a I.

Think that's understood.

Think that's understood.

Yeah. A platform we want to be on anymore.

Yeah. A platform we want to be on anymore.

No. And it's been a delight to have you in the studio once again, Vanessa. And as I said, uh, previously, it's always great to be with such dedicated and passionate people. And as you mentioned, your current CEO. Interim CEO, Cat Johns is one of those people who really lives and breathes advocacy, and she does it with such passion and dedication. That's great, and it's been a real pleasure of else to have you in the studio again today. Thanks, Vanessa.

No. And it's been a delight to have you in the studio once again, Vanessa. And as I said, uh, previously, it's always great to be with such dedicated and passionate people. And as you mentioned, your current CEO. Interim CEO, Cat Johns is one of those people who really lives and breathes advocacy, and she does it with such passion and dedication. That's great, and it's been a real pleasure of else to have you in the studio again today. Thanks, Vanessa.

Well thank you. I love coming here anytime. Okay.

Well thank you. I love coming here anytime. Okay.

Look forward to speaking to you again soon. Thanks again to Vanessa. And thank you all out there for joining us this week. And I hope you enjoyed that great conversation. Now Abby will tell us once again where to find the details about what we mentioned earlier about the power of dance championships and how to support and donate and assist the people who are going over to Hong Kong and then the further championships later in the year.

Look forward to speaking to you again soon. Thanks again to Vanessa. And thank you all out there for joining us this week. And I hope you enjoyed that great conversation. Now Abby will tell us once again where to find the details about what we mentioned earlier about the power of dance championships and how to support and donate and assist the people who are going over to Hong Kong and then the further championships later in the year.

Yeah, so if you want to donate, all you need to do is search up the Padwa. Org and search donate and it'll come up with the details of how you can donate. So that's Quahaug, which stands for the Power and Ability Dance. West Australia. So again, this is a really great organisation and it's really amazing opportunity and accomplishment. So please if you can donate do what you can.

Yeah, so if you want to donate, all you need to do is search up the Padwa. Org and search donate and it'll come up with the details of how you can donate. So that's Quahaug, which stands for the Power and Ability Dance. West Australia. So again, this is a really great organisation and it's really amazing opportunity and accomplishment. So please if you can donate do what you can.

So it was really interesting hearing Vanessa talk about the conference coming up for people with disabilities Western Australia. Now on a side note from that, if you are going to be holding a conference or a meeting or any other kind of event, please try to consider the accessibility features that might be required to be more inclusive to people with disabilities who are attending that event. For instance, people who are blind might need alternative ways of accessing the written content within the event. Or if someone is deaf or hard of hearing, they might require an Auslan interpreter, or find other ways of communicating to someone who is deaf. And let's be inclusive as part of this broader community to help make people feel welcome and not segregated within our society. And yeah, that's what we're all all about here at In Plain Sight to help people feel more inclusive.

So it was really interesting hearing Vanessa talk about the conference coming up for people with disabilities Western Australia. Now on a side note from that, if you are going to be holding a conference or a meeting or any other kind of event, please try to consider the accessibility features that might be required to be more inclusive to people with disabilities who are attending that event. For instance, people who are blind might need alternative ways of accessing the written content within the event. Or if someone is deaf or hard of hearing, they might require an Auslan interpreter, or find other ways of communicating to someone who is deaf. And let's be inclusive as part of this broader community to help make people feel welcome and not segregated within our society. And yeah, that's what we're all all about here at In Plain Sight to help people feel more inclusive.

Yeah, exactly. Simon. And next week we're going to be speaking to an Auslan interpreter by the name of Linda de Rozario. It's a really good interview, probably one of my favourites that we've done. It's so interesting. And, you know, I've actually always wanted to learn Auslan.

Yeah, exactly. Simon. And next week we're going to be speaking to an Auslan interpreter by the name of Linda de Rozario. It's a really good interview, probably one of my favourites that we've done. It's so interesting. And, you know, I've actually always wanted to learn Auslan.

So it highlights the importance of being inclusive. And it also highlights the importance of that. There are different fragments within our society and within our community, and each community can be blended together to make a whole community of commonness by just small acts of thoughtfulness and insight prior to whatever is happening, and then people feel more welcome.

So it highlights the importance of being inclusive. And it also highlights the importance of that. There are different fragments within our society and within our community, and each community can be blended together to make a whole community of commonness by just small acts of thoughtfulness and insight prior to whatever is happening, and then people feel more welcome.

Yes. So it's it's a really interesting interview. We talk about deaf representation in the movies. We talk about accessibility and equality and even what the NDIS provides in terms of Auslan interpreters. And to someone who is not deaf or doesn't know anyone that's deaf, or any family members that are deaf, it's really eye opening to understand all the issues and different circumstances that come up.

Yes. So it's it's a really interesting interview. We talk about deaf representation in the movies. We talk about accessibility and equality and even what the NDIS provides in terms of Auslan interpreters. And to someone who is not deaf or doesn't know anyone that's deaf, or any family members that are deaf, it's really eye opening to understand all the issues and different circumstances that come up.

That's right. And we'll just finish with this because we mentioned the power of dancing. And that's a fabulous example of how to make something inclusive to everybody across the board being blind, deaf or being a wheelchair user. So whatever you're doing, however you're doing it, please try to consider how to be best inclusive to a broad range of people.

That's right. And we'll just finish with this because we mentioned the power of dancing. And that's a fabulous example of how to make something inclusive to everybody across the board being blind, deaf or being a wheelchair user. So whatever you're doing, however you're doing it, please try to consider how to be best inclusive to a broad range of people.

So please make sure to check out the latest episode next week where we speak to Linda. And I also want to say a huge thank you to all our contributors to the show. Thank you very much. You help us meet some amazing people and get their voices out there.

So please make sure to check out the latest episode next week where we speak to Linda. And I also want to say a huge thank you to all our contributors to the show. Thank you very much. You help us meet some amazing people and get their voices out there.

And that's all we have time for today and this week, folks, thanks for joining us here on In Plain Sight on Vision Australia Radio. And you can listen to Vision Australia Radio in wherever you might be. Please look up your local guides and on demand on any podcast platform that you choose. Look forward to speaking to you again sometime very soon. Thanks very much. See you soon. Bye for now.

And that's all we have time for today and this week, folks, thanks for joining us here on In Plain Sight on Vision Australia Radio. And you can listen to Vision Australia Radio in wherever you might be. Please look up your local guides and on demand on any podcast platform that you choose. Look forward to speaking to you again sometime very soon. Thanks very much. See you soon. Bye for now.

Bye for now.

Bye for now.