By ALENA HIGGINS
PERSISTENCE has paid off for a group of local advocates who have campaigned tirelessly for greater disability services in the area.
Friday marked a proud and momentous occasion for the Rose City with the opening of an Endeavour Foundation Learning and Lifestyle centre, validating years of hard work and lobbying.
The facility on Tooth Street will offer people with a disability greater choice, control and independence – something that has been noticeably lacking up until now, according to supporters.
Speaking from the heart, chair of the Warwick and District Disability Support Group (WDDSG), Peter Stacy, said the centre would help people with a disability reach their full potential.
“Most of us tend to take choice for granted…but for young people with a disability, that choice is not quite so simple,” Mr Stacy told the crowd that had gathered to watch the ribbon-cutting.
“They need facilities and they need to be able to use those facilities and this day grants this community a choice.”
Learning and Lifestyle services use a person-centred support model to enhance the independence, confidence, self esteem, interaction and life choices of each person who accesses the service.
The support gives people access to a range of learning opportunities, as well as recreational and social activities.
Endeavour Foundation CEO David Barbagallo joined Mr Stacy and local dignitaries at the official unveiling where he praised the “relentless agitators” and spoke highly of the community’s fund-raising efforts.
“I would like to pay tribute to the WDDSG for their commitment, energy and sheer capacity for being bloody annoying which has been pivotal in helping bring about this learning and lifestyle,” Mr Barbagallo said.
“It is a fabulous Australian tipping of the hat to people who won’t be denied.
“The need for a Learning and Lifestyle here has been on our radar for some time.
“We are very glad to be able to now make it a reality,” he said.
Former Southern Downs Regional Council (SDRC) mayor Ron Bellingham and state MP Lawrence Springborg were singled out for special mention, as was SDRC for its role in finding and fitting out the facility.
The centre will initially operate two days a week, with plans to expand to five days once the number of people using the service grows.
Its establishment follows recommendations of a needs assessment study founded by the WDDSG.
SDRC mayor Peter Blundell echoed Mr Stacy and Mr Barbagallo’s sentiments and said he was “privileged” to be the person to pass on his congratulations at this “point in time”.
“It is a wonderful thing for our community,” Cr Blundell said.
“It’s going to make a huge difference…that allows the needs of the clients, of their family and of their supporters to be met.
“It is a huge step forward in what we have been able to offer in this community before,” he said.
To see social pictures from the event, turn to page 6.
