Afraa Kori
In support of Australia’s Carers Week, Spectrum designed an expo to connect with carers in the community.
Spectrum has been around for 40 years as a non for profit organisation supporting people from diverse backgrounds and with special needs.
On October 23, Spectrum organised an expo at Creeds Farm Living and Learning Centre to celebrate carers and attract surrounding communities.
The expo included dance segments, creative expression sessions, fun games, food and guest speakers.
Spectrum chief executive Bernie Nott said this was their first event since COVID and it reinforced the importance of togetherness, diversity and inclusion.
He said carers do a fantastic job in our society and for the community, so it’s only right for us to celebrate them.
“It was a chance to acknowledge carers but also a chance to connect in a social way, spend time and share a meal together and appreciate what we all bring,” he said.
“Amazing reactions from people. There was laughter, smiles and conversations happening from people who never met each other before. People from different cultures and backgrounds talking to each other, there was incredible diversity in the room.”.
Aged and Disability Services executive general manager Bevan Toerien said the festival was not only to celebrate carers but needed to create awareness.
“The issue we have in Australia is that so many individuals find themselves in a caring role but don’t associate themselves as a carer.”
“From a cultural background, If I’m supporting my mum or dad, I’m not being seen as a carer. I’m just being a son,” Mr Toerien said.
“So far the role that we played was basically to raise advocacy with regards to the role of the carers and the importance of carers.”
Mr Nott said this is not the end, as Spectrum has plans for more events bringing communities together.
