V/Line launches in regional Victoria
Welcome to our latest member, V/Line.
V/Line is proud to launch the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program on their network.
Nearly one in five Victorians have a disability and about 80% of those people have a hidden disability.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program will help ensure passengers can feel confident travelling on the V/Line network.
Passengers with a hidden disability can now choose to pick up a complimentary Sunflower lanyard, or a pin, from key locations on the V/Line network.
The Sunflower discreetly indicates to people around them, including V/Line staff, that they may need additional support, help or a little more time.
Over recent months, members of V-Line’s frontline team have been trained as part of the program, and they will also wear the symbol to show they are able to provide assistance to people with hidden disabilities.
Find out more here
AITCAP 2023 Conference Accessible and Inclusive Tourism conference – Gold Coast
We were proud to sponsor and present at the #AITCAP2023 (Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Conference) via GetAboutAble.
Sandee Facy from Hidden Disabilities Australia and New Zealand was accompanied by Emma Gallagher from Aspect Autism Friendly. They led a discussion on how small changes can make a big impact.
So many engaging conversations exchanged, and information shared. We are really excited to further support the tourism industry in becoming a more inclusive sector.
Do you work in the tourism industry, why not become Sunflower Friendly by joining Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative?
Keolis Downer Adelaide
Amy Turner, Customer Experience Project Officer states: “Another great day representing the Keolis Downer Adelaide team! Today, Jackson and I had the pleasure of hosting a stall at the Positive Futures Expo with Playford Council.”
The Expo featured many businesses in Adelaide who are there to assist people with disabilities with a particular focus on gaining employment and leading independent lives.
It was an honour to speak to all the visitors and other workers in the industry and raise awareness of the initiatives KDA have put in place to make the rail network accessible to all! We were able to talk about and promote our work with Hidden Disabilities Sunflower - Australia & New Zealand , Guide Dogs SA/NT and Two Way Street! It was so lovely to hear about how our initiatives will positively impact so many in their day to day lives!
Travengers
Traveengers AU – Autism Travel, empower young neurodivergent adults to connect through social event and travel.
”It’s no secret that I’m a fan of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower and the great work Sandee Facy is doing to launch it around Australia.
Now, Travengers is proudly and officially participating in the program!” - Agnes Abelsen, Founder of Travengers AU
Wondonga TAFE – Shine bright like a Sunflower
Wondonga TAFE thoroughly enjoyed a stop work moment during the month of May, to participate in sunflower painting for Shine Bright like a Sunflower to raise awareness about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple tool for people to voluntarily share that they have a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent – and that they may need a helping hand, understanding, or more time in shops, at work, on transport, or in public spaces.
AMaGA 2023 Conference in Newcastle
The HD Sunflower team of Sandee Facy, Director of Business Development and Justin Bruce, GM of HD Sunflower ANZ travelled to Newcastle as their abstract submission was accepted “Are you truly inclusive or only 83%?” Presenting to the Australian Museum and Galleries Association, providing conference members with information and insights to become a Sunflower friendly destination.