Around 100 people attended the inaugural Gawler and Districts Disability Expo held on Sunday afternoon at STARplex.

Families with children and adults living with a disability had the opportunity to explore the wide range of sporting and recreational opportunities.

The Expo was a joint venture between local Member of Parliament, Mr Tony Piccolo and STARplex based at Evanston Park.Activities included scuba based therapy in the pool and a range of court activities including basketball and boccia.

Mr Piccolo said the feedback from both families and exhibitors was very positive and the Expo helped bridge the knowledge gap that exists in people’s understanding of what is available and also the needs of families in the area.

The Expo had two key objectives; to make carers of people living with a disability aware of the various opportunities available for them to participate in sporting, recreation and artistic activities and to inform service providers about the needs in the local community.

Mr Piccolo said the Expo attracted a huge number of exhibitors which will help make local families aware of the opportunities available for their children and other family members to be involved in a broader range of activities to help them live healthier and more fulfilling lives.

“The Expo will also encourage a number of service providers to provide sporting and recreational opportunities in the local area rather than forcing families to travel to city all the time,” said Mr Piccolo.

STARplex General Manager, Mr Dale Martin said he was delighted that STARplex could partner with Mr Piccolo to host this important expo and demonstration.“It is part of STARplex’s charter to offer services to the community.

The expo gave families and services providers an opportunity to view the sport and recreation opportunities available at the centre,” said Mr Martin.

Local parent, Mrs Angela MacFarlane said it was important to bring the opportunities available to the attention of families who are living with someone living with a disability.“The expo seeks to ensure people living with a disability achieve their potential by availing themselves to the various opportunities,” she said.

Mr Piccolo said with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is designed to support people living with a disability to live with dignity and to be treated with dignity, which includes participating in activities which help them live fulfilling lives.

Families and carers interested in future Disability events in the local area can register their interest online at http://www.tonypiccolo.org/contact or contact Tony Piccolo’s Electorate Office on 85 222878.