RELEASED September 9, 2022
More than 150 people partied on Friday night at the Central Coast’s second Waves Inclusive Dance, organised by young people with a disability.
The first Waves Inclusive Dance was held in June and attracted a crowd of 60 people, but the event at the Central Coast Leagues Club is fast growing in popularity.
The Waves organising committee, is supported by Terrigal Rotary and Social Futures, a NDIS partner in the community.
One of the organisers, Andie Poetschka, said the Central Coast needed an event where people with disabilities felt welcome and safe.
“Our aim was to do something for people over 18 on the Central Coast, where they could be treated with respect and feel free to be themselves,” Andie said.
“The fact that Waves is organised by people with disabilities makes it more inclusive and accessible for others with a disability. At Waves we are free to dance if we want, have a drink if we want and be treated like adults, like we want to be treated and not feeling like we’re being ‘looked after’.
“Everyone – with and without disabilities – felt comfortable, could be themselves and could have fun in a safe, accepting and inclusive space. It was brilliant, and for many younger people with disabilities their first chance to hear live music.
“There was a woman there, who had not been for a night out in 10 years. On Friday, she felt safe and confident enough to have a night out.”
Another Waves organising committee member Ben Brown said the night went off without a hitch.
“It was wonderful to see such a strong turnout, to come out and dance, have fun and enjoy themselves and support a sensational event,” Ben said.
The Waves dances, at the Central Coast Leagues Club, charge a $15 entry fee to cover expenses, including the cost of the band and venue. (There is no charge for carers.)
“The Waves organising committee is planning to hold the dances every three months, meaning the next one will be just before Christmas,” said Social Futures’ Community Development Coordinator Scott Jones.
For more information email [email protected] or contact Scott Jones on 0434312536.
PHOTO: The WAVES organising committee: Ben Brown, Andie Poetschka, Maddy Dimond,
Maggie Vincent (Rotary) and Scott Jones (Social Futures).