FORTY years ago a group of parents of children with a disability got together to help each other out, proving that big change can come from small ideas.
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Clients, families, staff, friends and supporters of Tulgeen Disability Services celebrated its birthday last week within the Hilton Room of the organisation’s INSYNC day programs area in Bega.
CEO Pete Gorton spoke of the transition to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and launched the first draft of the Tulgeen History Project, inviting the community to contribute to the ongoing documentation of local history.
“The old and bold said it’s 40 years since we officially became Tulgeen at the old Scout hall,” Mr Gorton voiced to the crowd.
Researchers tracing the history of the organisation stumbled upon a September 1975 issue of the Bega District News that stated the lack of “hostels, workshops or special schools from Ulladulla to the Victorian border” as motivation for the creation of the Far South Coast Handicapped Children’s Association at a meeting in the Bega Community Health Centre.
The idea evolved over time from the brainchild of parents Bill and Carole Broadhead to a day group concept, to a sheltered workshop service, before the organisation was able to provide in-home support services.
New chairman of the board of directors and Bega Cheese executive Grattan Smith spoke of the warmth and friendship of staff and clients as he thanked the organisation for the role it plays in the local community.
“I look forward to the future with lots of excitement,” he told the congregation of smiles.
Mr Grattan has replaced long time board member Gae Rheinberger, who stood down in April this year after 15 years as a director and has played an important role in the organisation’s history project.
“Gae [Rheinberger] was the driving force to get this project off the ground,” Mr Grattan said.
Ms Rheinberger was presented with a painting by former staff member and local artist Rick Anderson, while Linda Sang was thanked for providing the food for the celebration and a firewood raffle was drawn.