The 2022 Alice Springs Roadshow
At the end of October, Disability Sports NT travelled to Alice Springs to conduct a roadshow of inclusive events. We would like to acknowledge Stephanie from Community Based Rehab Team (CBRT), who has been in touch with DSNT since May and involved in the process of planning this roadshow, advocating especially for their patients who live out in remote communities. Relationships like this are crucial to DSNT to be aware of gaps and ensure we are reaching individuals and community groups that need it.
Proceedings started with the Activate Inclusion Sports Day (AISD) at The Y. Four activities were offered to participants. They were allowed to roam and choose as they pleased.
CBRT shone with their allied health background. They improvised with the available equipment to develop games that met the needs of all. This included variations of soccer target practice, ten-pin bowling, and dodgeball.
The Alice Springs Netball Association adapted their games to suit the students and increase engagement. Alice Springs Tennis Association matched this providing one-on-one support for each participant to achieve their goals for the day. AFL NT was a crowd favourite. Their tackle bag was a hit for everyone. Days like these rely on the dedication and enthusiasm of the activity providers, we cannot thank them enough for bringing high levels of energy and attentiveness.
Total Recreation additionally assisted in the delivery of activities. They connected and built rapport with the participants. It was great to be back at Alice Springs. We hope to continue being a connector for school-aged students to be introduced to more sporting opportunities outside of school.
On October 26 Ntaria community had their first Inclusive Sports Day. This involved a sports clinic for all classes and an inclusivity workshop for the senior students. Forecasted numbers were 30-40 students max, upon arrival we were greeted by five full classes of 25 students each!
Our relationship with the NT Gov Community Sport Officers Gavin and Nicholas was paramount to the organisation and success of this day. Upstanding young leader in Ntaria, Nick, advocated for the project and ensured that we were coming into community respecting what was wanted.
A huge thank you to Thomas from AFL NT committing to the clinic in on a busy day. His friendly and energetic traits connect to the kids. Their response to his programs is a testament to his professionalism. Thomas extended an invite to a student based in Areyonga, who came from one hour away to be a part of this special day.
Beth from Tennis NT was unable to attend in person. Despite this, she provided a key link in organising the day and ensured there was plenty of tennis equipment for the clinic. We had so much that we were able to send Sharnita and her teacher Claire, back to Areyonga community with a stack of equipment to keep actively engaging in tennis.
We were honoured to have Sport4All join our Alice Springs Roadshow and contribute to the success of the Ntaria Inclusivity workshop. The team came with open minds and a willingness to help. The students at both the AISD and the Ntaria Inclusive Sports Day learnt immensely from Michael. He spoke to anyone who had questions about what it is like living in a wheelchair and his journey to re-engaging in sports. DSNT is excited to collaborate with Sport4All and their increased engagement across the Territory.
DSNT feels privileged to have visited Ntaria. We look forward to building an ongoing inclusive sports program with the school and WANTA to benefit everyone living in community. This will involve better opportunities and pathways for those living with disabilities, and increased accessibility awareness.
[Image Description: Group photo before the Activate Inclusion Sports Day at The Y, in front of the rock-climbing wall. MIx of staff, teachers and students all grouped together, including one female student doing the splits and a peace sign with her hand!]
