Fraser Coast Regional Councillor John Weiland said Council received close to 100 nominations from inspiring athletes, dynamic leaders, innovative businesses, educators and selfless volunteers.
“We were thrilled to receive so many exceptional nominations and were delighted to honour them all at today’s official awards presentation at the Brolga Theatre,” he said.
“The Ability Awards provide an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of people with disability, and the individuals and organisations who work tirelessly to improve lives, inspire change and contribute to an inclusive community.”
The Fraser Coast Ability Awards are now in their 26th year after being originally started by Cr Ted Weber from the former Maryborough City Council.
The 2024 Fraser Coast Ability Award winners are:
Ted Weber Individual Achievement Award Sponsored by ProMelius
WINNER – Colby Ferguson
Colby, a deserving winner of the Ted Weber Individual Achievement Award, manages a busy schedule of work at the Endeavour Foundation, community involvement, and athletic achievements while continually developing life skills, supporting himself, and overcoming health challenges, all with unwavering commitment, resilience, and a positive spirit.
Community Spirit Award Sponsored by Maryborough and District Committee on the Ageing
WINNER – Kath Corless
Kath, who is vision impaired, founded and tirelessly leads the Maryborough Low Vision and Blind Persons Social Group, organizing inclusive activities and fostering a supportive community for people with vision impairments, their support workers, families, and carers.
Young Community Spirit Award Sponsored by Assistance Industry Resourcing
WINNER – Anthony Whittingham
Anthony Whittingham exemplifies Responsibility, Respect, and Self-Discipline at Aldridge State High School, earning Meritorious Awards for his leadership, commitment to school values, and community service, including organising a Mental Health fundraiser and volunteering with local charities.
Sport and Recreation Award Sponsored by Time Out Disability Services
WINNER – Dyshart Morgan
Dyshart Morgan has demonstrated exceptional dedication to swimming, competing for more than seven years and training six days a week. Dyshart competed at the Australian Age and MC Swimming Championships earlier this year, where he qualified for the finals in all five of his events and set personal bests in every race.
Dyshart was recently diagnosed with a rare genetic heart disease that prevents him from competing in high-endurance sports, but he remains determined to pursue his athletic goals. Dyshart remains committed to swimming and training at safe levels and is exploring archery as a new competitive sport.
Education Provider Sponsored by Octec Employment Services
WINNER – Early Childhood Development Program (ECDP) – Kawungan State School
The Kawungan State School’s Early Childhood Development Program (ECDP) is an early intervention program designed for children from birth to 5 years who require additional support to develop skills and behaviours that help them thrive.
ECDP employs various Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) methods, including high-tech tools like Speech Generating Devices and AAC apps, low-tech options like communication books, and unaided methods such as gestures and Auslan.
Community Organisation
WINNER – Hervey Bay Humpbacks All Abilities Futsal Club
The Hervey Bay Humpbacks All Abilities Futsal Club, founded in 2021, has rapidly grown into a supportive community that enhances the lives of its 26 members by promoting inclusivity, fostering friendships, and achieving notable success in national and regional futsal competitions.
Community Champion
WINNER – Carla Thornton
Carla is a dedicated and much-valued support worker, known for her big heart, advocacy, and innovative support for people with disability, helping them achieve their goals across various life skills. Carla’s positive influence is cherished by clients, colleagues, and the community.
Employment Provider
WINNER – Cloud 129 – Community Lifestyles Agency Inc
Cloud 129, a socially conscious coffee shop on Adelaide Street in Maryborough, is celebrated for its inclusive employment opportunities for people with disability, community engagement, and significant growth through initiatives like footpath dining, while collaborating with local charities and businesses to support the Fraser Coast community.
Hall of Fame
WINNER – Mighty LionHearts – Mary River Lions Club
The Mighty LionHearts – Mary River Lions Club in Maryborough, led by individuals with disability, is a community-focused, award-winning group that exemplifies leadership and service through fundraising efforts and creative initiatives, highlighting the significant impact people with disability can have when empowered to lead and serve.
Article supplied by Fraser Coast Regional Council
