The Junee Waites Room at Bega’s WorkAbility office was filled to capacity – and overflowing in to the hallway and kitchen – as clients, carers, employees, family and community members joined together. 

There was a real atmosphere of joy in the room as WorkAbility’s executive manager, Virginia Fitzclarence, gave thanks to all the employers and employees who made the service work. 

This year there was also an emphasis on acknowledging the valuable part carers play in the community. 

Awards were also given to celebrate the achievements of WorkAbility clients who were living independently. 

Those honoured came from Bega, as well as throughout the Eurobodalla and the Monaro. 

With the room packed to the rafters, guests were pleased to move downstairs for the entertainment portion of the day when the certificate ceremony was over. 

Moruya band Ironic Circus was joined by some local music enthusiasts for the afternoon and guests enjoyed a barbecue and sweets.

“Today was a day to get together and celebrate the abilities and achievements of all of you wonderful people in the room,” Ms Fitzclarence said. 

“The theme of NSW’s Don’t Dis My Ability campaign this year is ‘breaking down barriers, opening doors and creating community’.

“Today at WorkAbility we are celebrating those people who really have broken down those barriers to employment, people who are opening the door to independent living and people who are contributing to the community, not only employers, but partnership organisations and people with a disability,” she said.