Celebration For International Day Of People with Disability

Published on 14 November 2022

In celebration of International Day of people with Disability 2022 (IDPwD), Bellingen Shire Council in partnership with the Neighbourhood Centres of Bellingen Shire and the Seaboard Suicide Prevention Initiative (SSPI) are proud to showcase the Art Miinggiya Exhibition.

The Urunga ArtSpace will host the opening at 2pm-4pm on Saturday 3 December 2022, 13 Bonville Street, Urunga. Artworks will be displayed throughout the gallery and there will be live music, finger food and refreshments.

The Art Miinggiya Exhibition, focuses on art in your heart and celebrates the diversity and creativity that exists within our Shire. The concept that everyone can take part and be included should they wish to and in turn have their piece of art displayed is central to this exhibition. Miinggi is the Gumbaynggirr word for heart. Creating art opens the heart and mind, fuels the imagination, and can be restorative to the mind and body. It can bring joy, purpose and stimulation to people who are isolated and can provide opportunities to connect with others. The pieces in this exhibition focus on what it means to express oneself through art and reflects what is in the heart.

A key feature of the afternoon will be the presentation of this year’s Ian J. Cooper Awards for Access and Inclusion which will be awarded to businesses, groups and individuals who have been nominated by community members for their commitment to access and inclusion in the Bellingen Shire. International Day of People with a Disability is a United Nations sanctioned day that aims to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability and celebrates the achievements and contributions of people with a disability.

To find out more about the meaning of the day visit the website www.idpwd.com.au

Mayor, Cr Steve Allan said by making the presentation of the Ian J. Cooper Awards part of a community celebration, more people get to appreciate and acknowledge the great work being done in our communities to make them more inclusive.

“Council is delighted to be part of International Day of People with Disability and share in these successes that make for a more inclusive Shire”.

The exhibition will be open from Saturday 3 December to Wednesday 7 December 2022 at the Urunga ArtSpace, 13 Bonville St, Urunga. The ArtSpace is accessible for people using wheelchairs and mobility aids. If you require any access or support requirements, be sure to let us know ahead of time so that we can arrange reasonable adjustments: 6655 7300 or community@bellingen.nsw.gov.au