International Day of People with Disability free community event

Published on 17 November 2025

Mount Alexander Shire Council is inviting the community to celebrate International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) by coming along to a free community event.

IDPwD works to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability. It’s also a day to celebrate diversity and think about how we can make our shire a more welcoming and inclusive place for people of all abilities.

This year’s theme is: Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress.

Council is proud to support the community event, which will include guest speaker Eliza Hull, Able Radio, a silent disco by D-Tour, an accessible photo booth, an opportunity to connect with local service stall holders. Enjoy a free barbecue provided by the Castlemaine Lions Club while mainFM roving reporters will be giving live-to-air updates throughout the day.

Mount Alexander Shire Council’s Director Healthy Communities, Lisa Knight, said that Council is proud to host the IDPwD community event, now in its third year.

“This event has become a real highlight on our community calendar,” said Ms Knight.

“It’s a direct action from our Disability Inclusion Action Plan, showing our commitment to building an inclusive and accessible shire where everyone can participate and belong.

“IDPwD is also a time to recognise the achievements of people with disability and celebrate the progress we’re making alongside our Disability Inclusion Advisory Group.

“I encourage everyone to come along. There’ll be food, music, dancing, and plenty of opportunities to connect and learn more about local support services.

“After the event, Windarring are hosting a film screening at Theatre Royal from 1.00pm, which I invite everyone to attend also.

“We have a fantastic event planned, and I’m really looking forward to celebrating with our community.”

International Day of People with Disability community event

When: Wednesday 3 December, 10:30am to 12.30pm
Where: Victory Park, Castlemaine
Cost: Free, barbecue included

Short films presented by Windarring: a Shared Coop, produced by Sam Loy and Fred Farquhar and a bonus screening of Lollipops by Hannah Moon

When: Wednesday 3 December, 1.00pm to 3:00pm

Where: Theatre Royal, Castlemaine
Cost: Free

Council thanks its partners Windarring, Dhelkaya Health, Sports Focus, Castlemaine Lions Club, mainFM and Able Radio, Mount Alexander Shire Disability Advocacy Group, Mount Alexander Shire Accommodation & Respite Group, and Council’s Disability Inclusion Advisory Group.

Learn more about International Day of People with Disability at www.idpwd.com.au.