We were thrilled to host the third annual Stronger Together Conference on Saturday 31st August 2024, with thanks to The Hills Shire Council and CommBank Staff Foundation.
The day began with students from St Gabriel’s greeting attendees and handing out goody-bags. Guests were then able to check out the wonderful local services and supports in the exhibition space, before heading into the auditorium where The Hills Shire Mayor, Dr Peter Gangemi, officially welcomed guests. We were so excited to have Sandy Golder, the co-founder of Kindship, back as our MC, and journalist Jo Abi as our facilitator. Both Sandy and Jo have been supporting the conference since its inception, first appearing in 2022 as guest speakers.
First up, we heard from inspirational mother-daughter duo Evelyn and Kylie Scott, who shared the challenges and joys of their advocacy journey – a rollercoaster to which so many of our attendees could relate! We were then lucky enough to hear from powerhouse Kathrine Peereboom, a devoted mum of three sons with disability and a prominent figure in the disability community, who has dedicated herself to fostering positive change in support of individuals with disabilities for more than a decade.
Over a delicious lunch, we were treated to an amazing musical performance by Jimi and Jude Salman (who also delivered the Acknowledgement of Country in the morning) along with their mum Meghann Patten. Such a talented family, and everyone loved their rendition of ‘I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll’! Guests were also able to wander through the exhibition space again and talk to local services at their leisure.
In the afternoon, we heard from an amazing panel of local parents and carers – Ramsay Zreikat, Sarah Sydir and Delaney Wright – followed by the one and only Mr A+, Michael Theo, from ‘Love on the Spectrum’. Michael was kind enough to step in when our scheduled speaker, paralympian Tamsin Colley, fell ill. Thank you Michael, and we wish Tamsin a speedy recovery!
To finish the day, African drumming experts Soul Drummer energised and united the audience (and Foundation staff, who shed their nerves to join the group onstage!) with each guest given a Djembe to participate in a group drumming experience! It was a great way to end a day that we always hope leaves our guests feeling connected to a growing and incredibly supportive community. We’ve already received some wonderful feedback, with one guest telling us, “I left feeling my cup has been refilled and I have new leads to follow to further support my son and myself. I wouldn’t miss the conference for anything.”
The Foundation’s CEO, Ellen Witzlsperger, closed the conference with the exciting announcement that we have been awarded another grant from The Hills Shire Council, which means we will be back with another Stronger Together Conference in 2025!
