Touchstone - Volume 18 (Winter) | Page 8

IN FOCUS Picnic in the Park “Picnic in the Park is a fun day out for families, but it also builds community understanding that everyone should have the same opportunity to live a fulfilling life, regardless of their ability.” It’s time to celebrate all abilities Proudly presented by Treasury Casino and Hotel Roma Street Parkland, Sunday 26 July 10am-3pm Picnic in the Park is unique as far as most community events go: it has a popular, family-friendly program, a public transportaccessible location, plus quality food and entertainment. Not to mention that entry is free! However, what makes Picnic in the Park so unique is what it stands for. It’s about showing the community that people of all different types of abilities should be included in all facets of public life, and that every community event should be accessible to them. CPL CEO Angela Tillmanns said she hoped the diverse program would bring joy to families, while building understanding in the community that all Queenslanders should have the same opportunity to live a fulfilling life, regardless of their ability. Ms Tillmanns said Picnic in the Park was one of the few events in Queensland that was truly accessible and inclusive to all community members no matter their age, gender, race, religious or cultural background or level of physical or intellectual ability. “I find it difficult to comprehend that in 2015, all public events are not designed to include and cater for everyone in our community, whatever their level of ability,” she said. “We often hear governments and community organisations talk about our need to embrace cultural diversity; but what about physical diversity? CPL CEO Angela Tillmanns Glenn Swalling and Lottie Cooke enjoying the sunshine. Talented musicians entertaining the crowd. Don’t live in Brisbane? Don’t worry, we’ll be hosting a series of events across the state during Disability Action Week from 13-19 September 2015! “I hope this year’s Picnic in the Park will open people’s hearts and minds to others in their local community who have unique abilities and qualities of their own. “We also hope it will define the standard for all future Queensland public events in terms of accessibility and inclusivity,” she said. There were lots of cuddly animals at last year’s petting zoo. Stay tuned to the CPL website or contact your local service for details. Get ready for the premier outdoor event that brings together people of all ages and abilities! Brisbane’s favourite annual outdoor family event, Picnic in the Park, will return on Sunday 26 July with another fun-filled program for people of all ages and, most importantly, p