Technical aids foster independence

By Allison Redman, 3 March 2011

Tailor-made devices and innovative solutions are providing independence and inclusion to the disabled and aged in the ACT.

According to Belinda Barnier, Technical Aid to the Disabled ACT (TADACT) fundraising committee chair, the organisation 'is a rare gem that goes about the work of creating specialised aids for individuals without fanfare'.

'Every individual is precious in our community and I believe every individual has the right to have the opportunity to fulfil their potential,' Belinda said.

Over the past 30 years, more than 300 TADACT volunteers with a background in wood, metal, design, computing and electronics trades have designed, adapted or made around 6,000 pieces of equipment to make life easier for older people or those with disability.

One individual who has benefitted from TADACT's services is Jack Williams, an 8-year-old with cerebral palsy.

Like any yougster, Jack, who attends Duffy Primary School, likes to race around and play with family and friends. Devices such as the kinetic stander allow him to stand up, straighten his legs and participate at school - something his mother Donna is appreciative of.

'It means that Jack can be part of the school group, the family, he can stand, play games. He can be included,' Donna said. 'The main advantage is that he's up to the normal height of other kids and not sitting on the floor.'

On Wednesday 23 February, TADACT launched their new website and announced the organisation's ambassadors in paralypian and work record holder Michael Milton and WIN Television's Danielle Post.

Newly minted ambassador Michael Milton said people with a disability have unique strengths and weaknesses and it is about finding solutions to everyday problems.

'I can't ski, can't climb mountains, can't do a lot of things without adaptive equipment. That's why I decided to become a TADACT ambassador. What they do is important. What they do is life-changing,' he said.

ACT Minister for Disability, Housing and Community Services Joy Burch officially launched the website, which aims to better connect the local community with the services TADACT offers.

For Belinda Barnier, it is an opportunity for TADACT to call attention to its work and to encourage support.

'The website will bridge the gap to not only be informative but allow people to readily donate to us,' she said.

Visit technicalaidact.org.au for more information or to donate.