Inclusion is Everyone's Business at Count Us In Festival
Count Us In returns this month with its largest inclusive event offering over an expanded three-week program. Now in its fourth year, the festival features more than 60 events and activities designed to celebrate and encourage access and inclusion across Newcastle.
Presented by City of Newcastle, the program was developed in collaboration with Community Disability Alliance Hunter (CDAH) and will bring a range of activities to the city, including dance and art experiences, sports challenges, social and peer networking events and training opportunities, whilst the business community is invited to join a business lunch led by keynote speaker Dylan Alcott AO.
Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said inclusive employment was a key focus for this year's Count Us In festival.
“City of Newcastle prides itself on being a liveable and welcoming community for all people, increasing social inclusion and community connections with events like Count Us In festival in line with CN's Disability Inclusion Action Plan,” Cr Nelmes said.
"This year, we are delighted to welcome Dylan Alcott AO to lead the Hunter business community in an important conversation as we work together towards solutions for greater employment and workplace inclusion for people with lived disability."
Councillor Margaret Wood, co-chair of City of Newcastle’s Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee, said Count Us In recognises and celebrates the contributions made by people living with disabilities.
“Count Us In effectively and respectfully brings the whole community into the discussion about inclusion; this builds awareness, breaks down barriers and helps create future opportunities, especially when it comes to employment," Cr Wood said.
Andrew Vodic, Executive Director of Community Disability Alliance Hunter (CDAH), says the organisation is proud to partner with City of Newcastle as the official community partner for the festival in 2023.
“Once again, CDAH members are excited to be involved in the Count Us In festival. We are looking forward to the 2023 activities, and as official partners with City of Newcastle, CDAH members have a great opportunity to showcase some of our peer groups and community initiatives,” Mr. Vodic said.
Count Us In will be held from 4 – 24 September 2023. For a full program of events and activities, visit www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/countusin.
