Accord 2017 winter

Winter 2017

The sky is the limit

ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL: REVIEWS & RESOURCES GETTING THE RIGHT TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR YOUR NEEDS

06

08

Regulars 02 03 04 08 18 20 28

From the CEO From the President News Fundraising Daily living

39 Features

32 34 38 39 40

10 The sky’s the limit 14 Review: Sargood on Collaroy

Technology Legal rights Information and resources Review Social media

Policy and advocacy Regional round up

Patron: His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd), Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia accord is a publication of Spinal Cord Injuries Australia ACN 001 263 734 Incorporated in NSW Head office: 1 Jennifer Street, Little Bay NSW 2036 Celebrating 50 Years: 1967−2017

Phone: 1800 819 775 Fax: 02 9661 9598 Email: office@scia.org.au Website: www.scia.org.au

Editor Fiona Jackson

Designer Shauna Milani

Sub Editors Rosemary Gillespie Glynis Skepper

Advertising accordadvertising@scia.org.au

Printer: Blue Star Group; ISSN 1448-4145. The opinions expressed in accord are not necessarily those of Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) or of the Editor. They are published to create a forum for debate on issues related to people with disabilities. Original material in accord can be reproduced only with permission from the Editor. Information in accord is furnished solely as a guide to the existence and availability of goods or services. accord has neither the staff nor the facilities for testing and evaluating any of the services or items and therefore can assume no responsibility for the effectiveness, safety or quality of any such items or service. accord is funded by the New South Wales Department of Family and Community Services, Ageing, Disability and Home Care.

FROM THE CEO

PETER PERRY

Celebrating 50 Years: 1967−2017

As a member-based organisation with a proud history and an exciting future, these principles will be our guiding light as we embark on the next phase of our journey with our members (to the moon, and beyond!)

The future IS BRIGHT A

s we approach our fiftieth anniversary, our organisation faces a time of significant change and opportunity.

The next year will see more people transition to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), which is already transforming many lives across Australia. The NDIS will not only remake many individuals’ and their families’ future journey through life; it will also remake Spinal Cord Injuries Australia.

In June 2018, almost all the current government funding our organisation receives will cease. Fortunately, and unlike some organisations who rely on the government for 100 per cent of their funding, this will only affect around 20 per cent of what we do. This move is something that we have known about and have been preparing for since 2013.

Losing 20 per cent of an organisation’s ongoing funding is a major event.

However, we are confident that not only will this funding be replaced from other sources, but that opportunities to assist our members and clients, both current and future, will only grow as the NDIS is fully rolled out.

Recently, we’ve been asking ourselves what our future as an organisation might look like. This is a big question, and given the uncertainties and policy shifts of the NDIS that we’re experiencing almost every day, a hard one to answer. But, as JFK famously said in 1962, “We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organise and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone.”

If I were to paraphrase that speech in 2017, I’d say, “We choose to be there for our members as they transition to the NDIS, and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they

2

accord magazine

are hard, because that goal will serve to organise and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone.”

So it is in this spirit that our Board and management team have looked ahead, and decided on some guiding principles for our organisation over the next few years. You may think that this would be a difficult process, but it was actually relatively easy (sorry, JFK). Easy, because we are an organisation that is driven by its enduring values and ethos, not by the latest fad or shiny new thing.

The six principles that will guide everything we do in coming years are: 1. M ake sure we stay as close to our members as possible, and understand their needs as the sector changes; 2. D evelop new services to meet member needs, where it makes sense for us to do that; 3. M ake sure our voice stays strong, so that we can influence change in the sector; 4. M ake sure we develop the right skills in our people, and that everyone is happy at work; 5. B uild on the successes of our fundraising team; and 6. M ake sure as many people as possible know about SCIA, and what we are all about.

As a member-based organisation with a proud history and an exciting future, these principles will be our guiding light as we embark on the next phase of our journey with our members (to the moon, and beyond!). ▪

CHRISTINE TINK

The wider world OF WONDER I

read a quote once; the words of a 93-yearold woman simply known as Mary. She said, “If you force yourself to go outside, something wondrous always happens.”

And I firmly believe if you do, it does.

And therein lies the problem for so many people with a disability. Getting out in the world is no mean feat and it certainly requires more stamina and determination than that of regular members of the population. The barriers are there, and are almost too numerous to mention: lack of accessible transport, modified equipment, level surfaces and so much more. The list goes on.

But perhaps the greatest barrier of all is the largely unintentional ignorance of the more able-bodied members of society. I know, because I feel sure I fell into that category prior to my accident ten years ago. I once had an existence completely sheltered from disability.

A combined 13 months in the Royal North Shore Hospital spinal unit and Royal Ryde Rehab taught me that I knew nothing about life with a disability. I was unable to even answer a question posed by an occupational therapist regarding the number of steps into my workplace of 10 years – the able-bodied me had never noticed and, I’m ashamed to say, had certainly never considered access by someone in a wheelchair. To be fair, upon investigation it proved to be one small step, albeit one giant leap for disability kind!

Too many to recount are the times I have booked hotel rooms that have claimed to be accessible, only to discover the bed is so low the use of a hoist is impossible. Or that the shower may be “roll in” at floor level, but the door to the bathroom is not. Yes, it is certainly poor planning. But greater than that is the ignorance of what is actually required by a person with a disability to manoeuvre their way through life.

In recent times, when travelling to the city on a Saturday evening for dinner, I had the railway guard at my local station

inform me I had to be back by 9:30pm or she wouldn’t be there to provide the ramp to help me off the train. In a city like Sydney, that claims to be modern and cosmopolitan, why is there even the necessity for a ramp? In any case, are disabled people not entitled to stay out late on a Saturday – or any other – night?

And then there are the financial barriers.

Why in Brisbane, for example, could Europcar recently charge me $200 a day to rent an accessible vehicle when, if only I could get in it, a flash little Mercedes would have cost me just $60? Why should Emirates Airlines want to charge me $460 excess baggage because, unlike a regular traveller, I must travel with a commode and hoist? (Big cheer for Qantas here: I can travel with two pieces of ability equipment with no excess baggage cost.)

But the winds of change are picking up, and as the song goes, “The answer my friend, is blowing in the wind!”

The more of us that persevere and get out there, the more we can raise the bar – ask the questions and point out the problems.

Be firm, be fair and be friendly. Educate the masses and become counted as a viable sector of the market.

See you out there! ■

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Celebrating 50 Years: 1967−2017

NEWS

Breakthrough treatments for spinal cord injury a step closer with new partnership

New support centre planned for QLD

Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) is proud to be part of a new partnership with SpinalCure, the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and its Centre for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine (CNRM), bringing new and effective treatments for spinal cord injury a step closer.

Spinal Home Help (SHH), a Brisbanebased peer mentor and advocacy organisation run by and for people with spinal cord injury (SCI) and their loved ones, has recently launched a campaign to build Australia’s first Spinal Injuries Support Centre. Fully wheelchair accessible, this great new facility will act as an accommodation, resource, service and support hub, available to people with SCI and their loved ones right across Queensland.

The June signing of this groundbreaking agreement follows the launch of Project Edge in September 2016, an initiative within CNRM that builds on the breakthrough research of UCLA scientist, Professor Reggie Edgerton.

Professor Edgerton’s work has enabled people who were paralysed through spinal cord injury to regain movement in their limbs.

Professor Edgerton to develop the program – the first of its kind outside the USA. The partnership was also given a massive boost to its funding with a generous $1,000,000 gift from SpinalCure, together with an extra $1,000,000 in funding from SpinalCure, SCIA and UTS to go towards the fellowship costs.

“We are honoured to be part of this exciting partnership that will contribute to a society without barriers – not just for our own members and clients, but for all Australians living with spinal cord injury,” says Brad O’Hara, SCIA Chairman.

The agreement establishes two fellowships named in memory of the late David Prast, a long time spinal cord research advocate, to research and develop treatments aimed at restoring normal function to people who have a spinal cord injury or neurological condition.

SCIA, SpinalCure, UTS and CRNM are hopeful that this collaboration, which includes international research and cutting edge science, will lead to innovative treatments that restore function for the more than 15,000 people living with spinal cord injuries in Australia.

The CNRM, headed by Professor Bryce Vissell, will work in collaboration with

To contribute to this exciting project visit: bit.ly/projectedge

As the first few years after injury are critical, having access to user-directed support in the first few months of recovery and while transitioning back into the community can make all the difference in continuing to lead a healthy, happy life.

The centre aims to have something to offer everyone, regardless of their life stage and the time since their injury.

Workshops, activities, drop-in peer support services, information, and referrals will all be available onsite.

Clients will be able to use the centre’s self-contained and wheelchair accessible apartments for daily or weekend trials to learn from others with SCI and industry professionals while they plan for the future.

The SHH will also provide an affordable accommodation option for families to stay in while their loved one recovers in hospital, especially in the early months after an injury.

With the NDIS continuing to be rolled out across Queensland, SHH aims to make sure people with SCI and their families are aware of their options, and the transition from hospital to home is as smooth as possible.

This centre will represent an opportunity to learn at one’s own pace and to experience life outside the hospital in a safe environment.

Importantly, it will give people with SCI the confidence to overcome trauma and to live their life to the full.

(Clockwise from top left) UTS Professor Andrew Parfitt, Peter Perry (SCIA), UTS Vice-Chancellor Professor Attila Brungs, Brad O’Hara (SCIA), Professor Bryce Vissel, Professor William Purcell (UTS), Professor Perry Bartlett, Mark McCauley (SCIA), Joanna Knott (SC), Duncan Wallace (SC).

4

accord magazine

To get involved, show your support or donate toward the campaign, please visit www.spinalhomehelp.com.au/getinvolved

NEWS

A day at Randwick Races in support of SCI research SCIA will be rallying support for spinal cord injury research at Royal Randwick Racecourse on 2 September this year.

In partnership with SpinalCure Australia and the Australian Turf Club, this exciting event will bring the three organisations together for a fabulous spring day at the races to raise muchneeded funds and awareness for Project Edge, a new research collaboration at UTS that will bring Professor Reggie Edgerton’s ground-breaking neurostimulation work to Australia.

Neurostimulation is proving to be one of the most promising emerging research fields for recovery from spinal cord injury, with trials showing return of significant feeling and function for those with chronic and even complete injuries.

The September 2 event is also the chance to celebrate the start of Spinal Cord Injuries Awareness Week in style!

Spinal Cord Injuries Awareness Week commences 4 September and our fabulous race day will be the chance to start the celebrations in style! This week-long national campaign aims to create a more inclusive and accessible community for everyone.

Ticket price includes access to the exclusive Members Reserve, a glass of sparkling wine (or drink of your choice) on arrival and a gourmet, two-course BBQ lunch. You’ll also have the chance to hear more about the latest research from our special guest speakers and be in the draw to win some fantastic prizes!

We hope you can join us in your race day finest for this fun and worthy inaugural event in support of spinal cord injury research.

To purchase your tickets or find out more, head to www.spinalcure.org.au/tickets Tickets are limited, so purchase yours today!

and Automatic & Manual Ramps Automatic Docking System Hand Controls Systems Automatic Lifts Handrails & Support Safety Barriers

LOWERED FLOOR CONVERSION | LIFTS | HAND CONTROLS | RESTRAINTS | FOLDING SEATS | HANDRAILS Freedom Motors Australia has been a recognized name in the Australian Wheelchair Accessible Industry for nearly 20 years. We have a wide range of vehicles to suit every situation,which includes KIA Carnival, Grand Carnival & Soul, Toyota Tarago & Rukus, Honda Odyssey, Renault Kangoo & Trafic, VW Caddy Maxi, Multivan & Caravelle, Hyundai iLoad & iMax, Mercedes Vito & Sprinters, Toyota Coasters & Commuter, Mitsubishi Rosa, LDV v80.

All our vehicles are built to Australian standards.

Contact us today for an obligation free quote and demo.

1800 672 437

sales@freedommotorsaustralia.com.au

17 Plasser Cres, St.Marys NSW 2760

www.freedommotorsaustralia.com.au

www.scia.org.au 5

NEWS

You can win big by celebrating our 50th anniversary

Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) is not the only organisation celebrating their 50th anniversary this year. Our corporate partner Permobil has also reached this significant milestone!

Both organisations have seen significant changes over this period, not least with assistive technology, which has seen some dramatic advances that no one could have predicted 50 years ago. From standing power chairs to driving modifications to computer software, all have helped to increase the independence of people living with a spinal cord injury.

To celebrate our 50th anniversary and highlight how assistive technology has changed lives, SCIA and Permobil will be running an online competition throughout August. Just send in a photo accompanied by up to 25 words giving us an example of how assistive technology has really made a difference to your life.

There are prizes for the best entries and one lucky winner will receive a $2,500 voucher, generously donated

by Permobil, to put towards any of their great range of products.

Please send your entry to info@scia. org.au. Further details and terms and conditions can be found at www.scia.org.au/50comp.

The winner will be announced at SCIA’s 50th anniversary morning tea on 4 September at Little Bay Coast Centre, Little Bay. Please see page 26 for more details.

6

accord magazine

Free wheelchair assessment clinics near you Independent Living Specialists (ILS) Rehab, in partnership with SCIA, is hosting a series of wheelchair and seating assessment clinics around the state. The clinics will be run in both Sydney and regional areas to ensure better access of assistive technology equipment regardless of where you live.

Each session will be facilitated by an expert team of allied health professionals who will assist you through the assessment and prescription process of seating and wheelchair options to help you select the best wheelchair for you.

You can attend by yourself, with your family members and/or carers, or with your treating therapist.

If you’re transitioning to the NDIS, by attending these clinics and trialling the equipment you will then receive an equipment guide with prices suited to your needs to take to your NDIS planning session. If you’ve already received your NDIS plan, come along with your prescribing therapist, so they can write a detailed NDIS report.

For details on clinic dates and locations, turn to page 35.

For more information contact 1300 366 398, or email rehab@ilsau.com.au or visit www.ilsau.com.au/scia (username: scia and password: scia)

Do you have an NDIS Plan?

BOOK your wheelchair and seating review TODAY!

4 Easy Steps!

CONTACT ILS

1

Phone: 1300 366 398 Email: rehab@ilsau.com.au

ilsrehab.com.au

ASSESSMENT Complete NDIS assessment facilitated by ILS & your preferred prescribing therapist, including equipment trials & the submission of a detailed assistive technology assessment report

2 REVIEW

3

NDIS to review your assistive technology assessment report & advise of the outcome

APPROVED ILS to facilitate the delivery of your new equipment in collaboration with your preferred prescribing therapist

4

CALL NOW and register your interest 1300 366 398 or email rehab@ilsau.com.au

FUNDRAISING

Big Day Off brings big rewards The annual fundraiser Big Day Off has once again captured the imagination of businesses across Australia. Finishing in July, it raised much needed funds to support people with spinal cord injury whilst rewarding ticket buyers with a paid day off work to spend as they please.

Ritansha Prasad, Spinal Cord Injuries Australia

T

his year, 102 teams including Thrifty Car Rental and Uber ANZ participated in the Big Day Off (BDO), generously offering extra paid leave days for their staff to win.

The BDO media launch was held in May in Albury-Wodonga, where the fundraiser originally started, with winners drawn at random on 3 July. Televised on the WIN network, the launch featured speeches from BDO Ambassador, James McQuillian, BDO Chairman, Jon Retford, and SCIA staff member, Susan Wood.

More than 8,000 $5 tickets were bought by hopeful employees from companies such as Tourism Australia, Medicines Australia and Apotex, who all took up the challenge to raise as much money as possible for Australians with spinal cord injury.

that the organisation will match the money they raised – taking their total for this year to $2,680.00.

The BDO ambassadors played an important role in encouraging people to become a part of this terrific event. Mike Abbott, Head of Operations for Uber ANZ said “I am proud to be supporting the Big Day Off to help ensure that these young people and all others who sustain a spinal cord injury receive the best possible care. Not only does it support a fantastic cause, it’s a great concept.

At Uber, our employees work very hard and this is a great way to promote flexibility and balance, both of which are extremely important to integrate into the workplace.”

Sandra Sully, BDO ambassador and journalist at Ten Eyewitness News, showed tremendous support throughout Special mention goes to I-MED Radiology the campaign by promoting the BDO Network who went above and beyond via social media outlets. again this year, selling more than 1,000 tickets. Wilson Transformers Wodonga All money raised will go towards sold an impressive 687 tickets with helping SCIA, SpinalCure Australia Clayton Utz not far behind at 414 tickets. and other local charities to continue to support people with a spinal cord injury A special thanks goes to Brad Jones Racing through services such as Peer Support, for donating our biggest prize of a V8 hot EmployAbility and funding research lap valued at $5000. Vuly Trampolines through Project Edge. also kindly donated a family sized model and our corporate partner, National Rugby Through the combined efforts of League (NRL) donated a signed NRL our sponsors, ambassadors and the Kangaroo’s jersey. Our friends at Uber many participating businesses, the ANZ not only sold over 80 tickets but also BDO represented a significant step in donated ten $20 Uber vouchers. increasing awareness for spinal cord injuries. Big congratulations to all The BDO team is very grateful to the winning participants! ■ medical devices company DePuy Synthes, a company of Johnson & Johnson, who kicked off their participation with a staff lunch at their North Ryde offices.

The event featured speakers from SCIA, who spoke about their experiences of living with a spinal cord injury. BDO ambassador, Will Foster, also announced 8

accord magazine

Do something amazing this year and join team SCIA Whether it be the Cole Classic, City2Surf or Run Melbourne – run, swim or cycle your way towards helping us overcome barriers to independence for people with spinal cord injuries.

Visit scia.org.au/events for some inspiration and get involved this year. teamscia@scia.org.au | 1800 819 775

COVER

Travelling with a disability is no longer something to only dream of. Dream big and take control of your own adventure and you too can experience the trip of a lifetime.

Fiona Jackson, Editor, accord

E

veryone’s definition of accessible is different” is by far and away the single most common statement I heard when interviewing members about travelling with a disability. And they also stand united that upfront planning is key to successfully enjoying a trip – either here or abroad.

“You learn pretty quickly that search engines are your friend and you can access photos of the accommodation and check specific requirements that will really put your mind at ease before you make a reservation or plan your trip,” says

10

accord magazine

COVER

be too overwhelming, but says the experiences she has had since her first trip abroad have given her confidence to branch out and see more of the world.

Margaret has recently achieved a lifelong dream to visit Alaska, cruised down the Panama Canal and visited family in England, having a fabulous time and creating lasting memories along the way. seasoned globetrotter, Rachael Presdee, who has travelled widely within Australia and throughout the UK, Europe and Asia.

Rachael has always had the travel bug, and sustained her injury whilst working in theatres as a stage manager in London five years ago. She says travelling with a disability is different, but just as enjoyable if you plan as much as possible before you book, and ask questions every step of the way.

“Local knowledge is invaluable. There’s been times I was initially told an activity or destination wasn’t accessible, but if you ask the right people the right questions, then you can get a different answer. I’ve found people are more than happy to help if you explain what you’d like to do and are upfront about your needs,” she says.

Preparing your body for a flight where there will be limited or no access to a bathroom for an extended period of time, is crucial. Rachael believes getting as organised as possible and preparing physically can reduce travel anxiety and says it’s important to think about the worst case scenario, packing additional continence products and a change of clothes – just in case.

As well as being accommodating, Rachael maintains most travel companies and tourist destinations want to be helpful but, because they don’t know what your individual needs are, you need to be upfront to make sure you have as much control as possible over your trip.

This is a sentiment shared by fellow member, Margaret Harrison, who says she’s been encouraged by the can-do attitudes of people she’s contacted when planning trips with her husband, Philip, ever since her mobility was impacted eight years ago following a spinal bleed.

Margaret admits she was initially reluctant to plan any kind of holiday as she thought it would

Using a variety of airlines and cruise companies for her overseas trips, Margaret places her trust and confidence in a local travel agent to recommend accessible accommodation. On the occasions where it hasn’t lived up to expectations or been fully accessible, she says she has found people to be generally helpful and very eager to lend assistance.

“Do as much investigation for yourself as you can, speak to people and ask for recommendations. Don’t be put off if you can’t at first find information that will help you plan your trip. Look at photos from other travellers where possible, and enquire about equipment and transport options once you arrive in another country. For example, I was surprised to learn you can use your Australian Disability Parking Permit in the UK – which makes such a difference.”

Margaret says she made the mistake of assuming that certain countries or destinations would be inaccessible. She’s learnt by experience that you can, in fact, visit places such as the Rocky Mountains and Fort Lauderdale in the US, and book accommodation in beautiful old cities such as York in England.

Suzanne Mulligan from Brisbane agrees. Shortly after an active trip to Europe with her husband Terry in 2008, she was devastated to learn she had transverse myelitis and initially assumed her travelling days were behind her.

“The first holiday we had after the diagnosis was a cruise around New Zealand. We didn’t do any of the onshore tours, but as we’d been to New Zealand in the 1990s, this was OK. It was a way to dip my toe in the water so to speak, and gave me confidence to consider bigger trips,” she says.

Her first flight to Europe was in 2013 for an international masters rowing regatta, with Terry and her sister, Sharney, a trained nurse, accompanying her. Terry, a team coach, was keen to attend but said he would forgo the trip if Suzanne wasn’t able to travel with him. www.scia.org.au

11

COVER ◀ continued from page 11 “Having Sharney agree to travel with us was invaluable. I love her dearly and we really all had a great trip, spending time in Venice, Florence, Lake Como and Turin – where the competition was held. Terry’s team did well and we had a fabulous holiday in Italy,” she says.

Although there were challenges along the way that required time and assistance, Suzanne says she was really very touched at the lengths tour operators and hospitality staff were willing to go to in order to ensure she was able to experience what able bodied tourists experience.

She says that she has learnt to check age and layouts of cruise liners where possible and read as many travel reviews as you can. Above all, you need to have patience when you arrive and find something is not as you expected.

“I’ve found people very accommodating and even overcompensating when they realise I am not able to access a certain area, or have greater mobility needs than they anticipated when taking our reservation,” she says.

• Call the Customer Connect team at Spinal Cord Injuries Australia for relevant operators and companies that we know and for whom we’ve received positive feedback. The team’s motto is – “I can help you with that” and they’re available by email at info@scia.org.au or by calling 1800 819775.

• Spend time researching airlines and cruise companies for your trip. Read first hand reviews and find photos on websites such as Trip Advisor (www.tripadvisor.com).

• Find a travel agent that you feel comfortable with and make sure you are clear about your needs and requirements.

• Make sure you travel with people who completely understand your requirements so they can support you and advocate for you should it be needed.

• Thoroughly check airline regulations regarding equipment and luggage allowances before booking plane tickets to ensure you pack accordingly. Print all relevant documentation so you can produce it if required.

• Check your boarding pass before you leave the check-in counter to ensure you’re seated with

12

accord magazine

Rachael agrees it’s vital to shop around and take out travel insurance tailored for people with spinal cord injury (SCI). There are many insurers offering cover but one specifically tailored for SCI is paramount so you can ask questions that are understood and get answers that you need with confidence. “Do your homework, spend time at the beginning to plan and ask locals wherever possible. Travel operators might not have the most up-to-date information and sometimes you’ll be surprised at the outcome,” is her valuable advice.

“Mum and I did a trip to Uluru, Kings Canyon, Alice Springs and Darwin and I was able to see everything I wanted to. It was magical, a spiritual trip and very liberating to feel so free and independent,” she says.

So whilst stories of inaccessibility are still commonplace, and versions of what is accessible or not do vary greatly, there are ways to reduce surprise and or disappointment when travelling, and putting in the effort from the outset will, from what I have been told, reap huge rewards. ■

your travel companion or carer for the flight.

• If you have a manual chair that needs to be assembled or disassembled for transfer, provide a step-by-step guide of how to do this and attach it to your chair.

•P repare your body as well as possible before undertaking a flight or coach trip and take precautions to ensure you have any necessary products or equipment handy to reduce the impact of accidents should they occur when travelling.

•P ack continence products in more than one suitcase so you are not stranded if one goes missing during a trip.

•A sk people for help when you need it, and don’t be afraid to ask questions – even if it means repeating yourself, as only you know what your needs are.

• I f you are on the Disability Support Pension (DSP) make sure you are not out of Australia for more than 28 days in any 12 month period. This could affect your payments as, unlike the Aged Pension which allows recipients to travel overseas for a maximum of six weeks within a 12 month timeframe, the DSP has a maximum of only four weeks.

FEATURE

SARGOOD ON COLLAROY: Beachside resort “The most accessible beachside health and wellness resort in Australia, purpose built for people living with spinal cord injury.”

Joanna Knott, Chair, SpinalCure Australia

T

o say travelling is more challenging with a spinal cord injury (SCI) is an understatement. Finding good quality accommodation that combines functional issues (such as access and easily usable bathrooms) with aesthetics (like style) is almost impossible.

There have been countless times when I’ve argued with hotels about their lack of proper access or their rationale in making their one, allegedly “accessible” room the pokey one; almost always badly situated at the back of the building and generally next to the noisy generator or the unpleasant smelling laundry.

To be honest, I often don't have the energy any more - so thank goodness Sargood On Collaroy has arrived. And if only Frederick Sargood - who bequeathed the land back in the early 20th century, from his own private estate - was around to see the amazing difference it’s already making to those of us with an SCI! I’d love him to know just how much it’s helping us and our families deal with the challenges we face now and in the future.

Supportive community Sargood on Collaroy - situated on Sydney’s northern beaches - has been somewhat miraculously created over many years thanks to a supportive Collaroy community which eventually became the Sargood Foundation.

Its vision was to continue the land’s original purpose as “a place of healing” and the Foundation identified SCI rehabilitation as a primary focus, conducting workshops to ascertain user design requirements for a world first facility.

I say “miraculously” because the Foundation by then a not-for-profit organisation - raised more than $20 million for its design and construction, despite at times being pressured by developers and not always having consistent political support behind it.

14

accord magazine

Now fabulously established, and run by Royal Ryde Rehabilitation, Sargood on Collaroy is described as not just an accessible retreat with accommodation, but as a place to “refresh, learn, connect, and grow in assertiveness.”

As well as enjoying five star accommodation, guests can choose from a range of activities during their stay. These include an array of adaptive sport and recreational programs involving beach access, and water sports such as swimming, surfing, and scuba diving. Or why not enjoy a spot of adapted paragolf, cycling or yoga? A whole menu of thought-provoking conferences and courses is also available to choose from. You name it and - within reason – they’ll look into it.

Arriving – stunning cliffside location and architectural discretion Arriving at Sargood on Collaroy, it’s hard not to be struck by the streamlined nature of the slick contemporary building discreetly nestled into its cliff-side location. Thank goodness there’s nothing obviously institutional-looking that shouts, “Wheelchair users only!” because a lot of us thrown into the world of disability cry out for normality.

If needed, there is a car park which is easily accessed from Birdwood Road and a lift that takes you to each of the two levels above which house Sargood on Collaroy’s facilities. Access by cab is also available at this level or via Brissenden Avenue, then Beach Road, where a small path connects you with ground level.

On arriving at the main entrance, whether by lift or pathway, it’s hard not to be impressed by the sheer lightness of the building and its wide use of glass to ensure maximum enjoyment of its stunning beachside position. An open, oceanview meeting area is located one side of the lift and to the other, is a well-positioned reception desk at the path's entry, where visitors are greeted

FEATURE

Collaroy beach pool

on arrival. (I should add that the desk is a good height for a wheelchair user, so you can look the person greeting you in the eye: an uncommon feature in most modern hotels, even today.)

Similarly, window levels and balustrade positioning have been designed with wheelchair users’ heights in mind. Such thoughtful touches are again a sign of welcome, but rarely found in most standard buildings.

Also on ground level is a beautifully equipped communal kitchen. Easily height-adjustable bench tops make it simple for anyone wanting to cook. Personally, I'm a particularly great fan of their Thermomix, but others may be equally delighted by the Fisher and Paykel fridges, Smeg toasters, and Uccello kettles - all chosen with ease-of-function in mind.

On arrival, each guest is given an iPad, complete with Crestron software designed to allow maximum independence. Users can easily control room features such as entry, climate, and lighting, as well as blinds and entertainment.

There are 17 bedrooms at Sargood on Collaroy, all very private, spacious and beautifully equipped. They’re very generously sized certainly big enough for two to four people - with choices of bed size and type of mattress.

There’s access to specialist equipment if needed and the accessible bathrooms are huge. Each room has its own individual kitchen facilities and two of the rooms have sweeping beach views and decks, while the others enjoy small private garden outlooks.

The facility boasts an extensive library, and also offers toys for children, depending on the needs of the visitor, making it family oriented, if required. Guests travelling solo are also welcome and invited to make use of the retreat’s guest attendants and staff who offer assistance with care and/or recreational needs.

Underneath the main entry level are meeting rooms, an equipment repair room and the well set-up accessible gym with state-of-the-art equipment and surrounding deck areas.

www.scia.org.au

15

FEATURE What I loved most • L ocation, location, location and the many opportunities to make use of the beach, and sea surrounds.

• Th e discretion, look, and design of the building that puts those with SCI first.

• Th e great staff, including "guest attendants”, who call once a booking is made to see if you have any special requirements and who check other needs once you’re there.

• Th e thoughtful consideration given to facilities like the spacious bedrooms, the accessible gym, and the lounge, kitchen and deck areas - always making the most of the outside view.

• Th e ease and relaxed nature of it all: personified by classy photography of artistically shot local features.

• Th e enormous care that has gone into choosing all the furniture, fixtures, and fittings.

• Th e offering of a place to test new equipment, new learning experiences or to get existing equipment maintained with expert OTs and physiologists on site.

Sargood on Collaroy really is an amazing place and I’d urge anyone with an SCI to go there and experience all it has to offer. It has a really relaxed holiday feel about it and, while many of the staff are new to SCIs, they already have a strong “can do” vibe. Honestly, unlike some holiday experiences – you won’t be disappointed.

The facilities at Sargood on Collaroy.

Sargood on Collaroy really is an amazing place and I’d urge anyone with an SCI to go there and experience all it has to offer.

Thanks should go to Lifetime Care for investing in Sargood on Collaroy; Royal Ryde Rehab for taking a refreshing approach to rehabilitation; and the generous support of its benefactors and local community for funding it. There’s no doubt this has been due to the determination of a dedicated core group of the Sargood Foundation, together with today’s energetic and enthusiastic ambassadors.

You can contact Sargood on Collaroy on 02 8597 0600 to discuss your particular requirements or make a booking. You can also find out more information by visiting www.sargoodoncollaroy.com.au ■

16

accord magazine

SCIA is recruiting!

WE NEED YOU! SCIA is looking to recruit a number of Community Fundraising Collectors to help raise money to fund our vital services.

• Flexible hours in a variety of metropolitan and regional areas • Training and uniform provided • Great commission (33% of money collected) • Previous experience preferred but not essential

To apply, email jobs@scia.org.au or call Jodie on 02 8347 3005

scia.org.au | 1800 819 775

Joan Hume

DAILY LIVING

Travel Insurance 101 for SCI There's so much to think about when going on a trip, so getting the right travel insurance to meet your specific needs is essential for peace of mind.

Shirley Carpenter, Information Services Manager, Spinal Cord Injuries Australia

W

hen planning a trip, especially overseas, it’s important to include travel insurance to cover such situations as loss or theft of your belongings, the cost of disruption to your travel, and, most importantly the need to access medical services. Unexpected medical costs are something to be avoided, particularly if you’re travelling in the US. There, something as routine as a simple visit to the doctor can easily cost several hundred dollars. And frighteningly, a short, two-night stay in an American hospital could cost an Australian traveller more than $75,000!

The good news is that it is possible to get travel insurance if you have a spinal cord injury (SCI). When applying, you must declare all your current medical conditions. For example, if you have paraplegia, the application will ask the name of your condition and a series of questions about your health and any existing medical issues, treatments and general medications used over the past six to 12 months. From this full declaration the insurer may choose to:

those agencies offering insurance to travellers with an SCI, so if you feel you need assistance, contact us and we can recommend a travel agent which specialises in accessible travel and who is happy to help with the application process.

Another insurance issue to consider when travelling is the disability equipment you may need to take with you, such as a wheelchair, commode, or hoist. Check whether you already have these items covered under your home insurance policy as portable items, covering them for damage or loss worldwide.

If they’re not, you’ll need to compare the cost of including them in your travel insurance with the cost of adding them to your home insurance policy. ■

• Offer straightforward cover • Refuse cover altogether • Exclude specific conditions • C harge an increased premium to include specific conditions in your policy.

We asked an SCIA staff member about his recent overseas travel experience. “Last time I travelled and declared my paraplegia, the only questions were about whether I’d had pressure sores and kidney infections in the last six months. When I answered ‘no’, I was accepted by most companies. My travelling companion, on the other hand, declared a different condition and was denied cover entirely by many companies, but eventually was accepted – with an increased cost – by Southern Cross Travel Insurance (www.scti.com.au).”

The key message to take away from this is that it is possible to get travel insurance if you have an SCI, but you might discover the application process is a little tricky. SCIA keeps a record of 18 accord magazine

Travel insurers that our staff and readers have used and recommend: HCF www.hcf.com.au Insure and Go www.insureandgo.com.au Sure Save www.suresave.com.au Southern Cross www.scti.com.au These are recommendations only. Please check carefully that your chosen insurer covers your individual needs by speaking with them directly.

DAILY LIVING

www.scia.org.au 19

POLICY & ADVOCACY

Squeaky Wheel

Contributors:

Greg Killeen, Senior Policy and Advocacy Officer (pictured above), has been working with Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) since July 1991, initially as an Information Officer before joining the Policy and Advocacy team in 2009. He is also actively involved in a number of community, disability and government advisory committees as an individual or as a representative of SCIA.

Tony Jones (pictured above) has been working with Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) for five years as a Policy and Advocacy Officer. Until recently, he also spent three years working as a Researcher and Policy Adviser to NSW Parliamentarian Jan Barham MLC. He has a degree in communications, and enjoys making a positive contribution to improving the quality of life for people with a disability.

Update on NDIS, mobility and transport Further to the accord Squeaky Wheel focus on transport issues, the NDIS, Mobility Allowance and Taxi Transport Subsidy Schemes (TTSS), we wanted to share a quick update on these and other activities that SCIA Policy and Advocacy (SCIA P&A) are working on.

Our purpose is to increase equitable access to various transport services, facilities and infrastructure for people with disability.

The Federal Government is reviewing the Mobility Allowance with the aim of aligning eligibility with the NDIS. The Social Services Legislation Amendment (Transition Mobility Allowance the National Disability Insurance Scheme) Bill 2016 is before the Federal Parliament after passing the House of Representatives and being introduced into the Senate. At this stage, we do not have details relating to if and when it may be voted on. There will be no changes to the Mobility Allowance unless this legislation is passed and until then the current policy applies. The Mobility Allowance is due to be phased out by 2020, so we’re monitoring the legislation due to the negative financial and social impact this will have on many people with disability and have made this known to Senate members.

In regard to some state governments withdrawing eligibility for the TTSS from people with disability when they transition to the NDIS, we’re aiming to get this issue addressed through Christian Porter, MP, Minister for Social Services, who is also the Chair of the Disability Reform Council (DRC). The DRC has representatives from each state and territory, and depending on the response, SCIA may undertake a national advocacy campaign. SCIA P&A is aware that many people with disability are unaware of this issue as it doesn’t arise until they begin the process of transitioning to the NDIS. In the interim, we suggest those who lose access to the TTSS in this way contact their local State Member of Parliament, as well as their State Transport Minister. Current state

20 accord magazine

governments withdrawing the TTSS are Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and Queensland. Andrew Constance, NSW Transport Minister, has confirmed that the NSW Government has no plans to act in a similar manner, leaving the TTSS readily available as before.

SCIA P&A use various methods and activities to try to address systemic issues and we collaborate with other organisations and government departments and participate in many committees. In regard to transport, SCIA P&A is a member of the NSW Government’s Accessible Transport Advisory Committee (ATAC), and we represent a number of disability, aged and community support services.

The ATAC meetings include presentations from the various transport services, enabling ATAC members to provide feedback and comments that influence transport policies, services and facilities as well as the design of the conveyances, infrastructure, signage and wayfinding. The NSW Government must be commended for running ATAC to engage and collaborate with disability sector representatives.

SCIA P&A has contributed to the following transport areas:

Sydney Ferries

Sydney Ferries commissioned the building of six new ferries following recommendations they allocate wheelchair access spaces next to the windows as well as on the outer deck.

We visited a ferry mock-up and were asked to provide accessibility and wheelchair user feedback on the floor plan and allocated seating.

After two of the six new ferries arrived in Sydney in May this year, we requested a site visit to ensure our feedback was included, and inspected one ferry at Mosman Wharf in June. We’re delighted to say that Sydney Ferries included the requested access facilities and there are nine allocated wheelchair spaces. There are two sections with two wheelchair spaces together, and all spaces are next to windows, with an additional three spaces on the outside deck. There are also a couple of other spaces that could be used by wheelchair users and the floor has non-slip tiles for easier wheeling, plus four separate toilets,

Squeaky Wheel

POLICY & ADVOCACY

including one which is wheelchair accessible. Visual display screens provide destination wharf details and Braille signage has also been included for people with vision impairment.

Sydney Metro Northwest Rail

The NSW Government has engaged a consortium to design and build the Sydney Metro Northwest Rail between Chatswood and Rouse Hill, due to open in 2019. The SCIA P&A team was invited to inspect a full-scale prototype train station with an adjacent shed containing a full-scale mock-up of the platform built at Rouse Hill. After our informative site visit we suggested a number of changes to the signage and accessible toilets.

Separately, we provided comments on the train floor plans and made a number of recommendations relating to the allocated wheelchair space locations and the design of the Help Point information and duress system.

Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs Light Rail The NSW Government is rolling out the Eastern Suburbs Light Rail between Sydney’s Circular Quay and Kingsford, and between Circular Quay and Randwick, also due for completion in 2019. We were invited to provide feedback on a Light Rail stop prototype at Moore Park where we made suggestions on type, colour and positioning of signage and facilities, including the Opal Card Top Up machine and Help Point information.

Other activities for the team include submissions to: NSW Taxi Driver Incentive Scheme (TDIS) Review

NSW Transport representatives met with SCIA P&A in May to seek feedback on the draft NSW Taxi Driver Incentive Scheme Review Discussion Paper before it was released on 30 June 2017.

We plan to make a submission that will include a review of the TTSS and open discussions on whether it should be used with all ridesharing services, such as Uber and GoCatch. However, SCIA P&A wants to ensure that all wheelchair accessible vehicles approved to operate as ridesharing services are compliant with the minimum allocated space of the Disability Standards for

We encourage everyone to make personal submissions and register their interest to receive TDIS review information.

Accessible Public Transport (Standards).

We included this in our submission to the Point to Point Transport Review Discussion Paper (details below).

We encourage everyone to make personal submissions and register their interest to receive TDIS review information by emailing: TransportSocialPolicy@transport. nsw.gov.au

NSW Transport Point to Point Transport Review Discussion Paper

The NSW Government released the NSW Transport Point to Point Transport Review Discussion Paper in May this year to gather feedback from organisations and individuals on taxis, hire cars, community transport and ridesharing services such as Uber.

We lodged a submission that recommends private vehicles are compliant with the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport (Standards) with minimum allocated www.scia.org.au 21

POLICY & ADVOCACY

Squeaky Wheel

space requirements, the same as wheelchair accessible taxis are, and driver training and safety standards are also brought in line.

As private vehicles are used for ridesharing services such as Uber X, it provides the opportunity for people with wheelchair accessible vehicles to operate them as an accessible transport option.

The team at SCIA P&A are pleased that the Discussion Paper requires private vehicles to be compliant with the minimum allocated space dimensions equal to the Standards.

However, the hiring of private wheelchair accessible vehicles as a transport option would be cost prohibitive without using the TTSS vouchers. We are aware the NSW Government is keen for people with disability to benefit from all ridesharing services and is undertaking the abovementioned TDIS Review to consider if TTSS should to be used with all point to point services.

Federal Government Whole Journey Guidelines The SCIA P&A team was invited to attend a disability sector forum to provide feedback on the draft Whole Journey Guidelines, which have good intent.

with disability and other passengers, and the enforcement of policy procedures to ensure prams occupying allocated wheelchair spaces are moved to allow a person using a mobility aid to use that space. ■

However, as they are not mandatory, we’re concerned that they may not result in transport operators, providers and policy makers implementing transport services beyond compliance with the Standards.

SCIA P&A lodged a submission covering a number of areas, including the need for approaching footpaths to be provided and maintained, and the monitoring of public parking providing designated spaces for people with disability to guard against misuse and abuse by ineligible people.

We also suggested a different type of mobility aid restraint could be provided in public buses for the safety of people

Now in e! r o m s i L

Get moving with NeuroMoves Now is the time to get moving to achieve your personal goals with our full suite of exercise services for people with physical and or neurological disabilities. Programs range from basic fitness classes to highly specialised and intensive options, all at a range of price levels.

scia.org.au | 1800 819 775 Perth • Adelaide • Melbourne • Sydney • Lismore • Brisbane

22 accord magazine

CON585

Do you worry about UTIs?

You are not alone Research has shown that 41% of intermittent catheter users are concerned about UTIs on a daily basis1.

Coloplast have put together a practical guide on how to keep your bladder healthy. In this booklet, we will answer some of the most common questions around UTIs, and have also gathered some facts and helpful advice that can help you keep your bladder healthy in order to minimise the risk of UTIs.

BONUS Hand Sanitiser Spray

All those who register also receive a bonus hand sanitiser spray.

Register online to download your free UTI eBooklet www.coloplast.com.au/UTI-guide 1 Source: IC user survey (Countries: US, UK, DE, NL, FR, IT), January 2016 (n=2942)

The Coloplast logo is a registered trademark of Coloplast A/S. Š 2017-06 CON585. All rights reserved Coloplast Pty Ltd, PO Box 240, Mount Waverley, VIC 3149 Australia.

CON585-A4-2.indd 1

9/06/2017 2:36:26 PM

50th ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL

John Moxon

PRIDE IN AGITATION: John Moxon continues to advocate for change There was a time when John Moxon didn’t think of himself as a part of the disability community, until a chance run in with a now long-time friend in the halls of Macquarie University changed his way of thinking.

This fortunate encounter led him to become one of its fiercest advocates.

Susan Wood, Media and Communications Coordinator, Spinal Cord Injuries Australia

24 accord magazine

50th ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL

D

espite John’s quadriplegia, he says he felt a tangible divide between himself and the disability community.

“I didn’t see myself as part of a broader community,” he explains. “I just kept thinking, ‘I’m not like them. I’m just me, but I’ve broken my neck.’”

John first started advocating for disability rights at university after he was approached by fellow student, Ian Irwin, to be interviewed by 2SER about living with a disability. After his interview, John says his attitude slowly started changing as he began seeing the inconsistencies within government systems, the lack of access and the realisation that he wasn’t the only one affected.

John initially became a member of the Australian Quadriplegic Association (AQA) and later became its President before it was renamed as Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA). He helped host Wheeling Free on 2SER and later Freedom Bound. It was a regular broadcast for 12 years and became the station’s longest running program.

Advocacy for access and freedom of choice was heavily emphasised at AQA. “When I came out of hospital there was no such thing as a kerb ramp or a wheelchair-accessible toilet, even in the hospitals,” says John. “We wanted things our way. We didn’t want to live in a nursing home.”

John comes from a long line of agitators and he prides himself on being a part of this heritage. Most of his stand-out memories have been around protesting.

At a time when disability rights were in their infancy, he recalls one of their first big battles was personal care in homes.

The 1998 Scarlett Finney protest

committed to funding was too restrictive.

At the time, he was employed as a Senior Policy Officer for the Disabled with the New South Wales Government and fought for an increase in funding. “What irritates me most is that governments and, to some extent, bureaucrats, will not commit the funds necessary. Not only to keep you alive, but enable you to have a life.”

For the first ten years of his disability, John wanted to just be a part of dayto-day life, but later felt that he had a responsibility to others. And not just for people with disabilities, but for people in general. “Some people may never get to that stage, but there will always be people who will give up their time for the benefit of others,” he explains.

One such time was in 1998, when he was instrumental in fighting for the rights of seven-year-old, Scarlett Finney, who had spina bifida after she was prevented from attending Hills Grammar School because her disability couldn’t be accommodated.

The community rallied with Scarlett and “If you couldn’t do you own personal care her landmark case set a precedent for or your family couldn’t do it, you had future schools accepting children with to go into a nursing home.” In 1984, he disabilities. protested alongside others AQA members He admits that advocating isn’t for outside State Parliament. He says he everyone, saying, “There’s a price to found it especially important for those pay for advocacy.” In 1996, when John living in regional towns that were forced was employed as a public servant, the to live in hospitals, and protested for the Howard Government cut 43 per cent of right for people to not only be able to the Human Rights Commission budget. access care from where they lived, but for He protested outside Parliament House, people to be trained as carers. assisting in carrying a coffin as a symbol The Program of Appliances for Disabled of the current state of human rights and People (PADP) was the next big hurdle. chained himself to the gate. This resulted In 2000, John was still on the AQA in a less than successful meeting with the Board and believed that the $7 million then Prime Minister, John Howard. John

advises, “If you want to get along with politicians, don’t chain yourself to their gate, carry a coffin up a hill and don’t nearly get arrested by the Federal Police.”

John’s work was recognised by the Federal Government in 2013 when he received a Lifetime Achievement Award in Disability. He may have since retired, but he still advocates. He’s currently about to start lobbying for more wheelchair spaces in theatre venues after his dismay at their obvious lack at the Defiant Lives screening during the Sydney Film Festival. He’s been spending a lot of time researching his family history, too, writing a newsletter about his findings.

John and his wife, Margaret, have formed Parramatta Computer Pals, especially for seniors. The group now boasts more than 200 members and, in 2010, John was awarded Senior Citizen of the Year by Parramatta Council.

John and Margaret travel extensively around Australia and abroad, utilising as many modes of transport as possible, from hiring accessible campervans to travelling across North America by train.

He hasn’t let age stop him, either. Next year, around his 80th birthday, they’ll be embarking on a cruise to South America.

Becoming a quadriplegic all those years ago had a profound effect on John.

In many ways, he believes he’s had a better life because of it. AQA was just as enriching to him, as he described his experiences with so many fantastic people and had done such fantastic things. “I’ve met so many quirky, fun, enthusiastic and, I hate to use this word, but inspiring people.” ■ www.scia.org.au 25

50th ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL

Celebrate our 50th anniversary with us You would have read in an earlier issue of accord that Spinal Cord Injuries Australia (SCIA) was planning to hold a gala dinner to celebrate our 50th anniversary. Tragically since that announcement our President, Joan Hume, passed away suddenly and as a mark of respect to Joan who was to host the evening, we have decided not to proceed with that event but instead hold a series of morning teas in Sydney and across Australia.

Each morning tea will take place on 4 September which is the day that SCIA came into existence in 1967, and which also coincides with Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Week. We hope that our members and friends of SCIA will join us at a local morning tea to catch up, share memories and celebrate our numerous achievements over the past 50 years.

Sydney's main event will be held on the site of the old Prince Henry Hospital (PHH) at Little Bay, the Little Bay Coast Centre. This location is especially meaningful to SCIA as it's where our founders first formulated the idea of SCIA. In 1966 a group of people with quadriplegia – some having lived at the Prince of Wales hospital for over six years – were told they had to move to the spinal unit at PHH. Once there, the group, along with Garry Garrison an American social worker based at the hospital, started to meet regularly to talk about life after a spinal cord injury (SCI) and other matters. At this time there weren't any accessible accommodation facilities for people with an SCI and the only support group

26 accord magazine

“Celebrating 50 years is a milestone for our organisation and we are delighted to be able to share this anniversary with our members and clients in the community. I am looking forward to seeing everyone at the morning tea and hearing what Spinal Cord Injuries Australia means to you all.”

Brad O'Hara, Chairman, SCIA was the Paraplegic Association, which did not really represent people with quadriplegia. From these humble beginnings the first official meeting of the Australian Quadriplegic Association (AQA), now SCIA, took place on 4 September 1967 at PHH. For more information on our celebrations and to register your attendance at a morning tea near you, visit our website www.scia.org.au/50th/rsvp, phone us on 1800 819 775 or email info@scia.org.au.

PME Ad - need new artwork

REGIONAL ROUND UP

Our regional people Spinal Cord Injuries Australia’s (SCIA) regional team advocates for the rights and entitlements of people with disability living in regional areas.

They are committed to creating independence, dignity and unlimited opportunities for people living with spinal cord injury. Our team looks forward to hearing from you.

Lee Clark Northern Rivers Shop 27, Alstonville Plaza, Main Street, Alstonville NSW 2477 T: 02 6628 3409 M: 0421 055 992 E: northernrivers@scia.org.au Craig Lees Central West/Mudgee PO Box 1140 Mudgee NSW 2850 T: 02 6372 1892 M: 0413 367 523 E: centralwest@scia.org.au

Changes afloat in Northern Rivers Lee Clark, Northern Rivers

So much change has been happening across the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast regions over the past eight months that it’s hard to know where to start!

Firstly, congratulations to the fabulous NeuroMoves team for getting the Lismore site started at Southern Cross University (SCU) Health Campus. Having the program located there gives our members great access to not only the service itself, but to all other clinicians located in the same facility. Osteopaths, dieticians, mental health nurse practitioners and psychologists are all available, as are general practitioners. Those needing immunisations and vaccinations are also catered for, with some services being bulk billed on production of a Medicare Card.

Don’t forget, if you want to attend any of the Lismore NeuroMoves exercise programs, contact our highly skilled team on 1800 819 775. You might also want to include the exercise program in your National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan.

Glenda Hodges New England 20 Murray Street Tamworth NSW 2340 T: 02 6766 6422 M: 0427 257 471 E: newengland@scia.org.au Mel Gorman Illawarra/South Coast Suite B, Level 9, Crown Tower Wollongong Central, 200 Crown Street, Wollongong NSW 2500 T: 02 4225 1366 E: illawarra@scia.org.au

NDIS rollout across Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast We have been busy preparing for the rollout in these regions with many getting their goals set ready for inclusion in their NDIS plans.

We’re happy to help with any of your NDIS questions and are able to assist you with Support Coordination during this process. We can also continue to support you if you choose to have SCIA as your Plan Management organisation.

Important documents you need to have available include: • Proof of residency, such as an electricity bill, current lease/ rental agreement, contract of house purchase, council rates notice or insurance policy for your premises that shows your current address (within the last 3 months) • Proof of age, such as birth certificate, current passport, Proof of Age card, driver’s license or adoption papers. (ndis.gov.au) • Birth certificate • Australian citizen naturalisation certificate or foreign passport or travel document which includes a valid Australian Permanent Residency Visa.

28 accord magazine

REGIONAL ROUND UP The good news is that signage clutter has now been removed and the language used has been simplified, with uncommon medical terminology reduced. This works in conjunction with a new colour coding system where each floor of the building has an individual colour.

New touch-screen multilingual information kiosks have also been installed throughout the hospital. Working similar to Google maps, once you’ve found your destination, you can easily send the route to your mobile phone for directions.

You also need to have evidence of your disability to lodge with your Access Request Form. This includes information on your disability, how long it will last and its impact on your life. For more details on this please contact Lee on 0421 055 992 or email northernrivers@scia.org.au .

Beach matting trial a success for the community I would like to thank all our members and their friends and families who trialled the beach matting at Horseshoe Bay, South West Rocks. Beach matting is laid over the sand to allow wheelchairs users an opportunity to access the water.

This event was supported by Rotary Club of South West Rocks as one of their members, Margaret Harrison, has paraplegia.

The day was a great success with so many members of the local community acknowledging that beach matting is of great assistance to locals and tourists. Funding is being sourced by Rotary to cover the costs of purchasing the matting and is one of their major projects for 2017. Congratulations to all involved.

New Peer Support Volunteer Mel Gorman, Illawarra/South Coast

Welcome to Daniel Hillyer who joins the team in Illawarra as our new Peer Support Volunteer. He’s a regular at SCIA’s NeuroMoves gym and has interests in driving and travel.

Daniel’s Australian trips have taken him to Queensland, Byron Bay, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide and Tasmania, whilst his overseas trips include visits to Japan, Hawaii and Fiji.

Peer Support is available for anyone who needs it and we can offer assistance over the phone, by email, on Skype or in person.

Please feel welcome to call Daniel at any time on 02 4225 1366 or email him at dhillyer@scia.org.au.

Wollongong Hospital Way Finding Review

Other big changes include the introduction of adult change facilities, which include a hoist for maximum functionality and ease of use. Additionally, lifts at the hospital are currently being replaced, with the new lifts set to announce the floor number to assist with those with vision impairment.

These are just some of the changes being made, and Wollongong hospital welcomes any feedback. They’d also like to hear about your experience navigating the hospital and your assessment of their new accessibility features. To let them know your thoughts, contact Evelyn Jelercic from Wollongong Hospital on (02) 4222 5000.

New England in the spotlight Glenda Hodges, New England

Many issues relating to accessibility concerns have been raised by people in the New England area over the past 12 months. Whilst the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has featured prominently in many of these, there are broader issues relating to the general population that also need to be addressed.

The community attempted to resolve these matters in a face to face discussion with Deputy Prime Minister, Barnaby Joyce, at a closed forum held in Tamworth on Friday 2 June. Questions of concern relating to individuals from all regional areas were sent to Mr Joyce’s office for research prior to the discussion.

Some questions related to inadequate safe accessibility to trains on regional railway stations – a fight that has been ongoing for more than a decade. This has been discussed by various New South Wales government departments with no concrete outcomes to date, merely rhetoric and promises that haven’t been fulfilled. The new fast train from Melbourne to Brisbane may have an impact on regional stations. Maybe.

In early June, Daniel Hillyer and I were fortunate enough to attend Wollongong Hospital’s Way Finding review. The changes in accessibility to the hospital are as a result of ACCESSAbility audits which were completed in 2011 and 2014.

Another concern is the discrepancy of allowable overseas travel time for people receiving the Disability Support Pension (DSP) and those receiving the Aged Pension.

Centrelink allows DSP recipients four weeks in a 12 month period, whilst aged pensioners are entitled to six weeks a year. Why is there such a difference?

I’m pleased to report there have been significant improvements in access and overall experience when visiting the hospital.

One of the major changes made has been to signage, which visitors had previously reported to be confusing, particularly when people were coming into the hospital in an anxious state.

Other questions highlighted for discussion included National Broadband Network (NBN) connectivity, and the lack of available respite and other accommodation for those in need in regional areas, as well as multiple questions relating to the NDIS/NDIA. www.scia.org.au 29

REGIONAL ROUND UP Come and be part of SCIP! Naz Erdim, AQA Victoria's Spinal Injury Resource and Support Network (Spire)

SCIP (Spinal Cord Injury Network of Professionals) is looking for like-minded individuals who are interested in addressing the issues facing professionals living with SCI. We also want to find ways to increase respect and recognition of the value, influence and abilities that these amazing people offer.

SCIP is dedicated to maximising the inclusion, job retention and advancement of current and future professionals with SCI. We provide the opportunity to collaborate with others to discover and develop resources designed to promote career development and advance progression.

Our group is solely and permanently committed to meeting the complex, emerging concerns and needs of professionals living with SCI. We support everyone, regardless of their career field, title, employment status or degree of success. They may be: • Beginning their career • Undergoing rehabilitation • Volunteering • Unemployed • Working full-time, part-time or casually • Self-employed • Unable to work • On a pension • Receiving welfare • Retired If you are, or aspire to be, a professional living with SCI and are interested in joining SCIP, then contact us at emmabloom@spire.org.au. For further information you can also visit our website at www.scip.net.au.

We look forward to welcoming you to SCIP!

New accessible unit opens at Wilsons Promontory National Park A new accessible facility for visitors has opened at Tidal River in the spectacular Wilsons Promontory National Park.

The self-contained, one-bedroom unit has been thoughtfully designed and is constructed according to current DDA standards for accommodation.

Features of the new unit include: • Parking for two standard size vehicles is available within a few metres of the unit’s front door. The large entrance ramp and front landing make access very easy and, once inside, there’s ample room for visitors in wheelchairs to manoeuvre throughout.

• The kitchen has been specifically designed for visitors in wheelchairs in mind, allowing them to be able to cook independently. The kitchen bench, stove and sink can be easily reached from a seated position and the adjacent dining area is also very easy to access.

• The lounge backs onto the kitchen as an open plan space.

Visitors of all abilities can enjoy panoramic views of the stunning surrounding ranges from within the unit and from the generous verandah.

• The bedroom has ample room for two people in wheelchairs to stay overnight and contains two single beds.

• A fully wheelchair accessible toilet, bathroom vanity and shower make the bathroom safe and easy to use.

Other accessibility features at the Prom The older Sheoak and Wirilda cabins at Tidal River also offer accessible accommodation for visitors with mobility limitations but, due to their age, are not to the same standard as the new unit. However, a range of special equipment including personal hoists and shower commode chairs can be booked for visitors and is available at no charge.

Visit the Parks Victoria website at www.parkweb.vic.gov.au to find out more or contact Wilsons Promontory National Park Information Centre on 03 5680 9555.

All terrain wheelchairs A motorised all terrain TrailRider wheelchair and a range of beach wheelchairs are available for park visitors to explore the beautiful Norman Beach and many of the spectacular walking trails at Wilsons Promontory National Park. These fantastic all terrain transporters are designed for different abilities and are available for both adults and children.

For more information, visit the Wilsons Promontory National Park webpage under Accessibility at www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/ explore/parks/wilsons-promontory-national-park or call 13 19 63.

Parks Victoria’s Access and Inclusion Coordinator, John Kenwright, said it’s great news that more people can now stay and enjoy the incredible natural environment and wildlife within the park.

“Parks Victoria is keen to ensure everyone can experience the beauty of the state’s parks. We are pleased that this specially designed unit will enable more visitors of all abilities to stay overnight and experience nature at its best.”

Wilsons Promontory National Park is one of Victoria’s most loved areas of natural beauty and offers spectacular scenery from huge granite mountains, open forest and rainforest, to sweeping beaches and coastlines.

30 accord magazine

Tidal river, Wilsons Promontory National Park

Spinal Cord Injuries Australia is a registered NDIS provider.

Contact us today to find out how you can best achieve your personal goals through your individual plan.

1800 819 775 | info@scia.org.au

TECHNOLOGY Graeme Smith, Ability Technology

Head and mouth control It is such an effort now to use my hands to control my computer, that I am thinking of changing to a system where I can use my head or mouth to control the computer mouse from my wheelchair. But how would I click? And how do I type?

There are plenty of options available that rely on head and mouth movement. For head movement, the SmartNavAT is still available, although its software has not been updated since 2012. Similar is the Tracker Pro, which doesn’t require software. The advantage of these devices is that the user is not tethered to the computer by a cable. Instead, the user wears a small reflective dot. Another great device based on head movement is the Quha Zono (see image), but this does require affixing a headset. A dongle is plugged into the host computer, to link wirelessly to the headset unit.

the user can roll up and begin using the device independently.

These head and mouth options all require some head or mouth movement. Ideally, you would trial a device to see if this was a problem. The Lipstick and IntegraMouse only require lip movement, whereas the devices that are based on head control require head movement. Changing the speed at which the cursor moves can reduce the amount of movement required, but this also can make it more difficult to position the cursor.

For mouth control, there are options such as the QuadJoy and Lipstick, as well as the IntegraMouse. These have gooseneck or fixed mounts that hold them in position.

In each case, once they are set up properly,

For mouse clicks, there are several options. Many of the devices listed support the use of a switch to activate clicks. Even if they don’t, you can add this feature to your system through the addition of a switch-adapted mouse (which you would use just for clicking).

That means you would use your pointer for moving the cursor, and the switch attached to your mouse for clicking.

Another option is to use dwell clicking software (such as SmartClick or Point-nClick for Windows and Dwell Click for Mac). These activate a click after a period

Emergency call

Bigger icons

My circumstances have changed and I am alone at night. I am mostly OK with that but I would like a way of making an emergency call to someone if I need to.

I have seen some of the emergency call buttons and they are very small. I wouldn’t be able to use them.

I am considering using a tablet rather than my desktop computer. I have some capacity to use my fingers if the tablet is positioned correctly. However, I find the icons very small and this makes it difficult for me to use them.

What can you suggest?

We have undertaken a bit of investigation on this issue to see what your best option may be. VitalCall do not offer alternative switches to be used in place of their pendants. However, Technical Solutions in Melbourne can modify their pendants to make them switch accessible – then you can plug in a switch of your own. Tunstall do offer alternative switches for their emergency call system. These (and other switches) can be plugged into the wireless ROM module and no modifications are required. Safety Link also make provision for switch access. There are numerous switches to choose from – whatever you can touch, poke, shrug, bump, wink, hit, sip, tense or blow!

For Windows, iPad and Android tablets, the size of icons is determined within each app. What you can change, in some cases, is the size of the icons on the desktop or home screen.

Windows has “tiles” that can be adjusted in size to some extent. However, the iPad has a fixed icon size and many find this to be quite small. You can use a zoom feature, but this enlarges the whole screen and is probably not what you are after. Android tablets have the best selection of alternative desktops that feature larger icons. Big Launcher and Wiser are two such alternative home screens, but there are plenty of others also available.

32 accord magazine

of delay that can be customised. The type of click (left, right, or double click, or drag lock) can be selected from a small floating palette.

For typing, there are built-in on-screen keyboards available for Mac and Windows.

More advanced keyboards are also available, such as Click-n-Type or On Screen for Windows, and Keystrokes for Mac. You can also use speech recognition for creating text.

Switch access for Mac

Ability News

What are the switch access options for a Mac computer? How do I connect the switch to the Mac and what software do I need?

I would suggest you start with the built-in switch control facility that is built into the Mac. You could use a switch-adapted mouse to host your switch, or a USB switch interface such as the Switch Click USB (see image). When you activate Switch Control (through System Preferences/Accessibility) a switch control home panel opens up. This offers choices such as: • • • • • •

Keyboard Pointer System M enu bar (scans through menu bar items) Dock (scans through dock items) A pp (scans through items and groups in the active window of the current app)

The advantage of being part of the operating system is that it is updated automatically when the operating system is updated.

Technology n

• Ability now has team members in the Hunter, Illawarra, Western Sydney, Inner West Sydney, Eastern Sydney and Canberra! This cuts down travel time for our NDIS and other assessment, training and support services.

• We are now settled into our new premises in Forestville. We plan to establish ramp access and an environmental control demonstration facility in the months ahead. Our new phone number is 02-9975-4415 and the address is 12 Emperor Place, Forestville 2087. Our email remains unchanged and is: info@ability.org.au If you have any technology related questions contact the Ability Technology team at info@ability.org.au

means

Independence

n

Productivity

n

Connection

Where do you start?

www.ability.org.au 02-99079736 Helping you do more

www.scia.org.au 33

LEGAL RIGHTS

Can you really get sued for an online travel review?

Jeremy Zimet, Senior Associate, Slater and Gordon Lawyers

According to Slater and Gordon Lawyers, you should think twice before writing that review after your next trip.

T

ravellers are increasingly turning to • It is not published for an ulterior sites such as Trip Advisor to write or motive; read user-submitted reviews of restaurants • The review is truthful and accurate or hotels at their destination. These about any experience you have. This sites regularly receive reviews that some doesn’t mean you can’t use humour or business owners believe can be damaging satire to make your review enjoyable for their small business and this raises for others to read; and the question about how defamation laws • There can be serious repercussions if an could apply to someone who leaves a online communication is defamatory of negative review about their experience. a person/business.

If you have defamed a business in your review can the target of your Thankfully, most of what is published in online reviews is not malicious and attack take action against you?

The simple answer is Australian law allows small businesses - with fewer than 10 employees – to take defamation action over material that is posted to online review sites.

merely someone’s honestly held opinion.

In these circumstances, if a comment is substantially true, or represents the honestly held opinion of the reviewer, then a small business will have difficulty in bringing a defamation claim.

So what would be deemed a defamatory online review?

What if I’m accused of writing a defamatory online review?

Customers who publish malicious or negative reviews with an ulterior motive can face penalties running to thousands of dollars. Obviously it depends on the facts of what occurred, but there are serious repercussions for someone if their review is found to have defamed a business.

The best thing to do if you are accused of defamation is to take down the offending post or review, and offer an apology. If you’re lucky, the person will forgive you and you won’t end up in court. With the rise of online reviews and amplification through social media, ordinary citizens are becoming publishers and will be subjected to the same laws as newspapers and other news outlets. ■

It’s important to remember that for a small business to be successful in this type of defamation case, it would have to demonstrate that the online review was not the honestly held opinion of the reviewer or the review was malicious.

That is, the reviewer’s intention was to damage the reputation of the business by making others want to shun or avoid it.

It’s important to consider that when writing an online review: • The review should be treated as if it is being published to the world at large, given how fast online publications can spread (or go viral); 34 accord magazine

CALENDAR

Events INDUSTRY AUGUST

FREE CLINICS Independent Living Specialist (ILS) Rehab wheelchair and seating clinics:

14 - 15 August 2017

Sydney region:

Home Modifications Australia National Conference and Exhibition.

ANZ Stadium, Sydney Olympic Park, Sydney NSW

1 Aug 2017 – Penrith 2 Aug 2017 – Prairiewood 3 Aug 2017 – Allambie Heights 4 Aug 2017 – Little Bay 5 Aug 2017 – Penrith 6 Aug 2017 – Prairiewood 7 Aug 2017 – Allambie Heights 2 Oct 2017 – Little Bay 3 Oct 2017 – Penrith 4 Oct 2017 – Prairiewood 5 Oct 2017 – Allambie Heights

moda2017.org.au

SEPTEMBER 4 September 2017 SCIA 50th Anniversary Morning Tea Little Bay Coast Centre, Little Bay and other locations scia.org.au/50celebrations

Regional areas:

4 - 10 September 2017

24 Aug 2017 – Bathurst 29 Aug 2017 – Tamworth 31 Aug 2017 – Coffs Harbour 12 Sep 2017 – Ballina 21 Sep 2017 – Bathurst 26 Sep 2017 – Tamworth 28 Sep 2017 – Coffs Harbour 10 Oct 2017 – Ballina 19 Oct 2017 – Bathurst 24 Oct 2017 – Tamworth 26 Oct 2017 – Coffs Harbour

Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Week sciaw.com.au

OCTOBER 9 - 11 October 2017 Pacific Rim International Conference on Disability and Diversity Honolulu, Hawaii, USA pacrim.hawaii.edu

For more information contact:

NOVEMBER

1300 366 398 | rehab@ilsau.com.au

15 - 17 November 2017 2017 Australian & New Zealand Spinal Cord Society Annual Scientific Meeting Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Brisbane, QLD dcconferences.com.au/anzscos2017/home

www.scia.org.au 35

REVIEW

Travel inspiration only a click away Thinking about going somewhere? Whether your destination is local or abroad, travelling with a disability takes planning.

And that can include gathering a fair amount of research and learning about the experiences of other travellers to make you feel more at ease about your upcoming journey.

Susan Wood, Media and Communications Coordinator, Spinal Cord Injuries Australia

T

he following websites provide some great tips and tricks to prepare you when travelling. And who knows? It may even inspire you to take a leap and plan the adventure of a lifetime!

CURB FREE with Cory Lee www.curbfreewithcorylee.com Cory is based in the United States and has spinal muscular atrophy.

He’s put together a bucket list of places he wants to visit and is busy ticking them off one by one. Cory gives an honest take on what it’s like to fly with his disability and how he deals with problems when they arise.

Cory talks about his many experiences travelling across the continents, including a handy section on travel tips and hotel recommendations compiled from his world-wide adventures, emphasising the benefits of travelling for people with a disability.

Have Wheelchair, Will Travel www.havewheelchairwilltravel.net Have Wheelchair, Will Travel is the regularly updated blog of Sydneybased mother, Julie Jones, whose son has cerebral palsy. Her website is useful for everyone, from families with disabled children, to adults who want practical information for their travels around Australia and the United States.

Julie has put together an extensive list of tips from dealing with airlines to travel insurance, giving great advice about what you need to know and why planning ahead is essential. Have Wheelchair, Will Travel posts about travel to places such as Uluru and Kakadu, but also includes a more local focus, including getting out and about in Sydney, locating accessible beaches, exploring caves and going to the Blue Mountains.

You can also listen to Julie talk candidly about travelling on The Thoughtful Travel Podcast https://omny.fm/shows/the-thoughtful-travelpodcast/travel-with-disability-and-chronic-illness

Can Go Everywhere www.cangoeverywhere.com.au The Can Go Everywhere website can help you find accessible accommodation and services around Australia. Simply type in the location you’re about to visit and it will supply you with an extensive list of accommodation, restaurants and activities, helping anyone make more informed decisions about their next holiday. Whilst its main function is to equip visitors with useful information, Can Go Everywhere also encourages businesses to be forward-thinking about accessible tourism and how inclusive travel can benefit everyone.

36 accord magazine

REVIEW Lonely Planet www.lonelyplanet.com Lonely Planet has extensive resources for people travelling with a disability. It features a free updated Accessible Travel Online Resource (http://shop.lonelyplanet.com/world/accessibletravel-online-resources-2017/) written by their Accessible Travel Manager, Martin Heng. Martin sustained quadriplegia and has continued to write about his travel experiences, including helpful information about equipment, medical supplies, airline policies and what happens when somewhere has been advertised as accessible but isn’t what it seems.

Lonely Planet also runs Thorntree forums dedicated to those travelling with a disability and contributors are encouraged to share their own travel experiences.

Able Thrive www.ablethrive.com/travel Able Thrive is a one-stop platform featuring curated resources such as blogs, articles and videos for anyone with a disability.

The Able Thrive travel section is a comprehensive list for people who have paraplegia or quadriplegia. It covers air, ground and sea travel, as well as accommodation, things to do and tips to empower people with disabilities to get out and experience all the world has to offer. â–

www.scia.org.au 37

INFORMATION AND RESOURCES Tripable.org TripAble finds the perfect travel destinations for jet setters with specific accessibility needs.

No matter what your disability, TripAble will help you travel the world. The site lists over 300,000 hotels across the world and the list is growing. You can rank hotels on the site, or check it out next time you are planning a holiday.

Go to: https://tripable.org/ You’ll Never See Me Naked: A Memoir by Lou Grantt Lou Grantt has done it all. Adventures include travelling in Europe and much of the US, runins with the police (she was innocent, she swears), flying in various contraptions, and lots of gorgeous, sexy men. Filled with humor, pathos, and the truth as she remembers it.

Borrow from the SCIA library or visit: http://bit.ly/YNSMN Broken by Emma White On a trip to Canada, Melbourne girl Emma met Kev, a local ski instructor. After four years together, Kev was in a motorbike accident that left him with paraplegia. That didn’t stop them embarking upon a whirlwind 18,000 kilometre camping road-trip across Australia.

Borrow from the SCIA library or visit: http://www.melbournebooks.com.au/products/broken Everything is possible by Martyn Sibley After growing up with Michael Palin’s TV travels, Martyn Sibley realised there was more out there than Cambridge and set off on a series of travel adventures that took him from Mexico to Catalonia. Martyn has spinal muscular atrophy and writes extensively about his advertnures.

Borrow it from the SCIA library or go to: http://amzn.to/2bAQzUR No Ordinary Days: a journey of activism, globe trotting and unexpected pleasures

by Susan Sygall From travelling through Southeast Asia on local buses to hitchhiking through New Zealand in her wheelchair, Susan redefines how we see ourselves, see others, and live our own lives.

Borrow it from the SCIA library or go to: http://bit.ly/susansygallNOD Lonely Planet’s Accessible Travel Online Resources by Martin Heng A guide dedicated to accessible travel resources. One of the world’s largest lists of online resources for accessible travel.

Access the guide here: http://bit.ly/SCIALibraryTravel TravAbled.com A travel website for people with disabilities and their family and friends. You can search for accessible locations, make recommendations, add comments and ratings, post photos, interact with other users and mark accessible locations.

Go to: http://www.travabled.com/

These publications and resources are available for loan or download from the Spinal Cord Injuries Australia SCI Resources and Knowledge Library. To borrow, visit library.scia.org.au, or contact us at info@scia.org.au or 1800 819 775. In addition to the library and a comprehensive range of information on our website, SCIA offers help and advice to people with a spinal cord injury and similar disability, their families and carers through their Information Services.

SCIA can be contacted at info@scia.org.au or on 1800 819 775.

38 accord magazine

REVIEW

Accessible Villa G: Sanur Bali, Indonesia Holidays come in all shapes and sizes. Christine Tink visits Bali and experiences a tropical paradise fit for a queen.

By Christine Tink, President, Spinal Cord Injuries Australia

T

he idyllic Villa G is set down a labyrinth of narrow walkways, off the main road yet close to the beach, in Sanur. It is one of a complex of 12 villas, each secluded behind high walls and with their own private pool.

The setting is quiet yet central, and the verdant vegetation attracts much birdlife. With the trickling sound of water to be heard everywhere, it’s hard not to feel peaceful and relaxed.

The layout of the villa is simple. Two bedroom wings are joined at one end by an open-air living and dining space, with a pool in the centre. All the bedrooms are air-conditioned and open directly onto the pool area and there are also ceiling fans galore.

One wing of the villa contains two bedrooms with exquisite bathrooms, complete with marble bathtubs and outdoor courtyard showers. The other wing has two rooms and a single bathroom area. Not quite as salubrious, but still very comfortable and in the same Balinese style.

All rooms have a small bar fridge, a safe, and a television, although cable is only available on the TV in the living area. Wi-Fi is included and a modest range of books welcomes those wanting to to take a break from technology.

Breakfast is also included – your choice of continental or American – and is prepared and served by the indispensable Made (pronounced Mar-day). She’s also available throughout the day to straighten rooms and, as a font of local knowledge, arrange any extras. For example, my husband enjoyed several surfing trips out to the reef and we all had in-house massages. On another day, we arranged a trip to Ubud Monkey Forest and the local markets.

Enjoying the villa pool with friends.

PROS: There is a range of disability equipment which can be provided free of charge, including two commodes, a basic manual wheelchair, two hoists, a portable ramp and a pool hoist. For outings, there is a vehicle (similar to a maxi taxi with a hydraulic lift) which can be arranged at an additional cost, although transport to and from the airport in this vehicle is included.

CONS: The local footpaths in Bali are a

challenge for a wheelchair user. We also found using the pool hoist a challenge for my level of disability – getting in and out required a couple of extra pairs of hands!

And, in lieu of the fact that I can’t think of anything else to complain about, I could say that the loose river pebbles in the channel around the swimming pool are a hindrance to a wheelchair.

COST: Depending on the exchange rate

the cost per night for Accessible Villa G is around AU$330. The villa sleeps three couples comfortably, with perhaps two children additionally, and would comfortably allow for two people with a disability at a time. Breakfast and transfers are included, as is the use of disability equipment. I booked through www. accomable.com, however better rates may be available from other websites. ■ www.scia.org.au

39

SOCIAL MEDIA

Tune in or tape!

Kurt Fearnly features on Ahn Do’s Brush with Fame #abctv #ahnsbrushwithfame

Take a look at our Peer Support team at Puckey’s Beach in Wollongong and thanks to those who came along on such a beautiful day!

Great achievements are coming from our NeuroMoves sites. If you would like to know more about our variety of exercise programs call our customer connect service on 1800 819 775.

Is disability activism falling behind?

According to ABS 4.3 million people (almost one in five Australians) reported living with a disability.

Check for screening details of the film Defiant Lives, a project close to the heart of SCIA’s late president, Joan Hume.

}

facebook.com/spinalcordinjuriesaustralia

linkedin/company/spinal-cord-injuries-australia

youtube.com/spinalcordinjuriesau

twitter.com/SCIAust

2017 0622 SCIA PQBSA Svcs 135 x 90 JUNE.pdf 1 22/06/2017 3:50:58 PM

The challenge is no longer

How can we be intimate? but How Intimate Can We Be? THE ORIGINAL, revolutionary Intimate Rider has been helping couples overcome physical challenges & disabilities for years!

C

The Intimate Rider's patented technology allows you to achieve a broader range of motion with minimal effort, allowing you and your partner to unleash your intimacy in a way that was not possible before - the way you deserve! It's comfortable, easy to use, stores discreetly away and there's no right or wrong way to use it.

It's entirely up to you!

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Enhance

Sexual Mobility

Designed for couples who REFUSE to let physical challenges get in the way!

GET YOURS TODAY Order on-line www.dmedirect.com.au Durable Medical Equipment Pty. Ltd. 78 Lake Cohen Drive, Kalaru, NSW sales@durmed.com.au Ph: (02) 9674 8904 Fax: (02) 8212 5912 40 accord magazine

ActiveReach™ technology is the ultimate advantage in accessing your environment.

By combining 14” of seat elevation and Corpus seating functions, Permobil’s ActiveReach™ technology enables you with up to 20º of forward tilt. This can be used for reaching beyond obstructions, into high cabinets, or even assist in transfers. Truly putting your world within reach.

FEATURING

For more information please contact: Email: info.au@permobil.com l Phone: 1300 845 483 www.permobil.com.au

SAVE THE DATE

16 -17 MAY 2018 Melbourne Showgrounds

On display will be the latest in assistive technology, aids and equipment, as well as options for mobility, communication, travel services and lifestyle options. The Independent Living Expo is an event that welcomes all those involved in ensuring better outcomes for people with disability of all ages. The Expo is of interest for everyone, whether a consumer, care giver, allied health practitioner, equipment funder or support organisation.

For more information phone 1300 789 845 or visit www.atsaindependentlivingexpo.com.au Media Partner

ATSA 2018 Accord FP.indd 1

30/06/2017 4:24 PM

Now the opportunity to trial our equipment in a VW Transporter & supervised by a driving instructor

THE ULTIMATE DRIVING CONTROLS HERE IN AUSTRALIA Total Ability provides innovative, high quality and safe driving solutions to the Australian market. driving controls for your independence

First-hand experience in Europe and working throughout Australia with workshops, occupational therapists and driving instructors means individualised assessments and installation of the most suitable equipment. Our philosophy is about getting people safely behind the wheel and driving to the best of their ability. Call us today to discuss your needs.

• Satellite Accelerator • Over-Ring Accelerator • Combined Brake & Accelerator • Push-Pull Brake & Accelerator

List of installers nationwide at:

www.totalability.com.au info@totalability.com.au | call 1300 858 410

• Push-Radial Brake & Accelerator • Voice Command for auxiliary controls • Joystick Steering • Foot Steering

Total Ability - Exclusive distributor for: