In this edition
Welcome!
Can you believe it’s December?
As we near the end of 2024, I hope you all take a moment tomorrow to recognise International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD).
IDPwD has come a long way since it began as International Day of Disabled Persons in 1992. It has grown into a globally recognised and joyfully celebrated platform to push for inclusivity and break down barriers — whether they’re physical, technological, or in people’s attitudes.
This is a day that is all about highlighting the voices, experiences and leadership of people with disability and creating a more inclusive and understanding community.
At Melba, we like to think that this is just part of what we do but this global day is a great opportunity for everyone to look for and share stories told by people with disability. Not sure where to look? Check out the ABC’s new series Headliners, which gives an insightful look into the lives of musicians with a disability.
2024 has been a big year for Melba and we expect 2025 to be no different. We are looking forward to returning as a platinum sponsor of the VALID Conference at the end of January and encourage everyone to register and attend the only conference run by people with disability, for people with disability. If you can’t attend but are in the area, you should make the time to wander through the disability expo attached to the conference, there will be some great stands, including Melba! Come and say hi! We will have lots of giveaways for our Melba Community News subscribers!
In 2025 we will be ramping up our advocacy efforts, we will be talking more about meaningful relationships, we will be increasing the number of Specialist Disability Accommodation provider partners we have and Supported Independent Living options.
We also want to see more people taking advantage of their individualised support arrangements and working with Melba to do whatever it is they want to do.
In short, we want to stay true to our mission to open up a world of opportunities for everyone to live a fabulous life! A life that they choose!
Stay safe over the end of year and summer break and we will be back in 2025.
Don’t forget to find and share all the fabulous stories from and about people with disabilities tomorrow – tag us in what you find!
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Back To TopDr Melinda Smith - pushing boundaries
Image Credit: Nicole Tsourlenes
Melinda Smith is someone who defies categorisation. Dancer, poet, writer, visual artist, mentor – she wears many hats with passion and purpose.
Melinda describes herself as someone who is always in motion, constantly engaged in creative endeavours.
“I am a very motivated person and always have been,” she says. “I never experience boredom because I can always find something to do.”
Conduit Bodies: A one-woman show
One of her major projects this year was her one-woman show, Conduit Bodies, which she both wrote and performed. The show debuted at this year’s Fringe Festival, offering audiences a profound exploration of “the relationship between technology and the body, disability, assistive tech, and the natural world”.
The power of “airsticks“
Melinda, who has cerebral palsy, used “airsticks” strapped to her body and wheelchair to transform the performance space into something entirely new – an experience that expanded the boundaries of dance and questioned who it is for.
The “airsticks” are a remarkable piece of wearable tech, translating movement into sound, text and visual effects. Using cutting-edge motion tracking and wireless technologies, the “airsticks” gave Melinda complete control over gestural data, making every movement part of an immersive multimedia experience.
Breaking boundaries in performance
The audience could witness the magic of movement directly influencing the performance, offering a transparency that made the show even more compelling.
For Melinda, movement is at the core of everything she does. “Movement drives me to every aspect and every activity I do,” she says. “Dance is important to me, (as is) creative expression and being able to be who I am and what I want to communicate.”
With Conduit Bodies, Melinda pushed beyond the expectations placed on her by society and embraced a deeper form of expressive mastery. The performance grew into a crescendo of sound, movement and visual art, culminating in a transformative experience for the audience.
Unique, innovative and thought-provoking, Conduit Bodies challenged stereotypes and preconceptions about disability. It invited audiences to reconsider the limitations of form and explore a new frontier in live performance.
Melinda wrote the show with a clear intention: to dismantle the conventional ideas about disability that she encounters in her daily life.
“I wrote Conduit Bodies to challenge stereotypes and preconceptions of disability,” she says. “Sometimes society is my biggest barrier because people assume that one size fits all.”
Supported independent living with Melba
Melinda’s relationship with Melba began on Halloween Day in 2023 when she moved into an apartment built to specialist disability accommodation (SDA) standards in Cheltenham. The transition has been a transformative experience.
“Moving into an SDA apartment and being able to access Melba Support Service has been incredible and a life-changing experience,” she says.
“Being able to connect with Melba Support has allowed me to feel safe and secure in my apartment at all times of the day and night.
“Although I am very independent, sometimes I have difficulty completing certain tasks, but Melba has always been there when I needed them. Getting to know all the staff has been a very personal and professional experience.”
With her boundless energy, fierce independence and passion for challenging perceptions, Melinda continues to push the limits of what’s possible and redefine how we understand disability, creativity and the body’s relationship to the world.
Melba provides Supported Independent Living (SIL) so you can get the support you need to live independently, just like Melinda. That might be a few hours a day or around the clock – whatever is best for you. It’s your choice, because a good life starts at home.
Back To TopJoin us at VALID's Having a Say Conference 2025
We’re excited to be the returning platinum sponsor for VALID’s annual Having a Say Conference. Join us from Tuesday 28 January to Thursday 30 January as we celebrate this year’s theme: “Our Lives, Our Voices!”.
The theme is all about the importance of self-expression and empowerment for people with disability. So come along and make your voice heard!
The details:
- When: 28-30 January 2025
- Where: Deakin University, Waterfront Campus, Geelong, Victoria
What is the Having a Say Conference?
Hosted in Geelong, the Having a Say Conference is an annual event that brings together people with disability, their families, and support workers across Victoria. It’s a chance to:
- Share stories and experiences
- Learn from each other
- Celebrate the unique voices in our community
There are workshops, discussions, presentations, performances, even the chance to try something new, this event creates a welcoming space for everyone to shine.
We want to make sure everyone who wants to attend can take part. If you need support to attend, we can help through our Individualised Support Arrangements (ISA).
Contact us to learn more about how we can support you to get the most out of your conference experience.
What’s happening at the conference?
Day 1: Tuesday 28 January
- Opening ceremony: Kick things off with an open mic session!
- Workshops and performances: Try something new or enjoy a show.
- “Come & Try” activities: Discover fun and exciting hands-on experiences.
Evening highlight: Join us at the Conference Dinner and Disco at Club Italia for a night of fun and connection.
Day 2: Wednesday 29 January
- Insightful talks: Hear from fantastic keynote speakers.
- Expo: Check out resources and services that can support you.
- More fun activities: Keep exploring with ‘Come & Try’ sessions.
Day 3: Thursday 30 January
- Looking ahead: Focus on dreams, goals, and achievements.
- Awards and talent Show: Celebrate art competition winners and enjoy the ‘HaS’s Got Talent’ Finals during the closing ceremony.
The Having a Say Conference celebrates individuality, connection, and empowerment. At Melba, we’re passionate about creating opportunities for everyone to be heard and valued.
Want to win one of two online registrations to attend the conference? Simply email us at melba.news@melbasupport.com.au to go in the draw.
Need support to attend?
We can help! With our Individualised Support Arrangements (ISA), we can support your attendance in a way that works for you. You can also learn more about the conference here (PDF).
Back To TopMelba delivering meaningful solutions
Melba’s Meaningful Homes initiative is revolutionising the lives of the 320 people we support in former state-run group homes. Historically, many of these people had little-to-no say in where they lived, who they lived with, or how they lived. Today, that is changing, as Melba is empowering every person to define what a “fabulous life” looks like for them.
By listening carefully to people’s preferences, as well as having conversations with their support networks, we are transforming these insights into tangible outcomes, providing people with the opportunity to live in homes that truly reflect their desires and needs.
For many, this means moving into homes with friends or having spaces that accommodate mobility devices, such as walkers and wheelchairs.
Most people express a preference for living with fewer people, having access to newer homes with private ensuites, and creating living environments that better align with their personal preferences. People are sharing specific details on what they do and don’t want, reflecting a strong desire for change.
Some people want a home that is open to pets, friends and intimate partners, some want a home that is closer to public transport, friends, family, or even their favourite hairdresser. Through our Meaningful Homes initiative every person’s preferences are not only heard but treated as entirely possible. We are committed to turning older houses into truly meaningful homes, where people are free to live the life they choose, on their terms.
Key achievements
1. Development of the first 125 housing plans
The Meaningful Homes team made remarkable progress by developing 125 individualised housing plans, each tailored to meet the specific needs, desires and visions of the people we support. These plans serve as blueprints for creating homes that foster independence, comfort and choice.
2. Welcoming the first three women to their new home
One of the team’s most heartwarming moments was visiting three women who had just moved into their new home, which includes a purpose-built beauty studio. The joy of being able to paint their nails in a space designed just for them symbolised the profound impact of the Meaningful Homes initiative on people’s day-to-day lives.
3. Building partnerships with property developers
Forming strategic partnerships with property developers has been key to the success of the program. These collaborations are helping to ensure that new homes are built in the locations where people actually want to live, reflecting their preferences and needs.
Meaningful Homes is not simply about relocating people; it’s about supporting them to make choices, fostering independence and ensuring that every person can live in a home that is truly meaningful to them.
Supported Independent Living (SIL) and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
At Melba, we are continuing to advocate for more accessible homes in the areas we deliver services. We believe everybody should have the opportunity to experience living in their own place.
To achieve this, we partner with highly skilled and experienced developers and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) providers, who are committed to improving the lives of people with disability.
We then deliver our Supported Independent Living services in these homes, blending great, purpose-built accommodation with excellent, personalised support care.
Melba Spotlight: Kelly
Meet Kelly, a vibrant and determined person who has embraced life with enthusiasm and resilience. By joining her local ARROW group, Kelly is learning more about her rights and has grown her confidence in advocating for herself.
ARROW (Advocacy | Rights | Representation | Outcomes | Worth) is Melba’s self-advocates group. At Melba, the voice of people we support is the most valuable feedback we receive.
Monthly ARROW meetings have become a powerful platform for Kelly to speak up, share her thoughts, and inspire others to find their voices.
Kelly used to be quiet but now socialises and embraces new experiences with open arms. The support she’s received — particularly 1:1 support — has been instrumental in helping her rebuild her confidence. “Being more confident has allowed me to explore new places and try new things,” she shares. Kelly’s newfound sense of empowerment means she’s making her own choices and filling her days with activities that bring her joy and fulfilment.
Her days are packed with the things she loves most. Kelly is a fitness enthusiast who enjoys going to the gym, swimming, and playing tennis. Equine therapy has also been a special part of her routine, allowing her to connect with animals.
Of course, there’s always time for a bit of shopping! Kelly loves to explore Melbourne’s bustling shopping scene, Traralgon’s cozy cafes, and the sprawling stores of Fountain Gate, especially during the festive season.
Kelly is a lover of the arts. She has a soft spot for stage shows and concerts, with her recent Taylor Swift concert experience leaving a lasting impression. “I love music and dancing,” she says, adding that her talent for music trivia is something not everyone knows about her.
When it comes to relaxing, Kelly is all about her favourite TV shows, especially the classics like Home and Away and Neighbours.
Living independently in her own unit through Melba Support Services has been life-changing for Kelly. “I love living in my own unit!” she beams, reflecting on the sense of freedom and accomplishment it brings.
Kelly’s zest for life is contagious. From exploring the soothing Metung Hot Springs to visiting the Cat Café or spending quality time with her family, she makes every moment count.
Midsumma 2025: March with Melba
We’re excited to be returning to the Midsumma Festival once again, a vibrant celebration of diversity, inclusivity, and pride within the LGBTQIA+ community. Supporting the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies is essential to who we are as an organisation that values diversity, inclusion, and equality.
We’ll have a stall set up at the Midsumma Carvinal on Sunday 19 January, and we’ll be participating in the Midsumma Pride March on Sunday 2 February. And guess what… YOU can march with us!
Sunday 19 January: Come and say hi at the Midsumma Carnival
The Midsumma Carnival is an exciting kickoff event in the city filled with community festivities, games, and pride-themed activities. We’re going to have our stall! It features games, plenty of people to chat with, and some merch – it’s not to be missed.
Rubber ducky carnival game
Guess which rubber duck has a star on the bottom, and you could win unique prizes, including exclusive Arthur Creative merchandise. It’s a fun, accessible way for everyone to join in, connect, and celebrate pride.
What is Arthur Creative?
Melba’s Arthur Creative is an inclusive arts based workshop in Ballarat. This is a space where artists with disability can express themselves, connect with the community, and showcase their talents through various mediums. The artists at Arthur Creative have crafted some unique items to celebrate creativity, diversity, and pride—perfect for the Midsumma spirit!
Get in touch if you, or someone you know would like more information about Arthur Creative.
Sunday 2 February: Join Melba at the Midsumma Pride March
Whether you’re someone Melba supports, a family member, a friend, or simply someone who believes in equality and inclusion for the LGBTQIA+ community, this is your chance to stand alongside us and march proudly together.
Why join us?
- Lead the way with Drag Queen Dizzy Bility
Our march will be led by the fabulous Dizzy Bility, a drag queen who incorporates her hearing aids and legal blindness into her dazzling performances. Dizzy challenges perceptions and proves that true glamour knows no bounds. Imagine being part of this trailblazing moment!
- Dance your heart out
We’re bringing the energy with an accessible dance routine for everyone to join! No prior dance skills needed—we’ll send a fun tutorial ahead of time so you’re ready to move, groove, and celebrate with the Melba community.
- Wear your pride
Register early to grab a vibrant Melba-branded t-shirt, designed by Arthur Creative (collect on the day). Show your allyship and pride as we create a colourful sea of support for inclusion and equality. T-shirts are limited to the first 75 registrants.
Be part of something bigger
Joining the Pride March is about standing in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community, joining Melba at the Pride March shows the world that pride is for everyone.
Don’t miss your chance to march proudly with Melba. Sign up now to secure your spot! It’s super quick—the form takes less than 30 seconds to complete. Join us today and be part of this fantastic celebration of pride and inclusion!
Let’s make this Midsumma unforgettable—together.
Join our Mates & Dates Focus Groups
Ahead of launching our 2025 event season we’d love to hear from you about what you want our Mates and Dates events to look like.
Our Mates & Dates events cover a range of in person events that we run across Victoria to help people with disability make new connections, whether that be meeting new friends, socialising or dating.
Limited places still available to book now!
Online focus groups to run on:
- Tuesday 10 December, 6-7pm
- Thursday 12 December, 2-3pm
- Tuesday 17 December, 2-3pm
- Thursday 19 December, 6-7pm
Have ideas but can’t attend, get in touch with Bridie by emailing: bridie.cavanagh@melbasupport.com.au
Keep an eye on our social media and events page to upcoming Mates & Dates events in 2025.
Back To TopIn the news
Nearly seven years after a devastating stroke turned his life upside down, former Olympic roadracing cyclist Jamie Kelly is regaining his independence with the help of Melba.
Back To Top
