Sport
26 May, 2026
Learning to live with disabilities
Wycheproof’s Mallee Sports Assembly project officer Rhonda Allan made a trip to the school to deliver an engaging Disability Awareness session for Year 7, 8 and 9 students.
BIRCHIP school students learned first hand what living with a disability can be like.
Wycheproof’s Mallee Sports Assembly project officer Rhonda Allan made a trip to the school to deliver an engaging Disability Awareness session for Year 7, 8 and 9 students.
“The program is designed to help able-bodied students gain a greater understanding of how people with disabilities manage everyday activities and some of the barriers they may face,” Mrs Allan said.
“The session was highly interactive and included a range of fun and challenging activities.
Mrs Allan began with a group discussion about what disability means and the different ways a person may acquire a disability, including from birth, illness, or accidents.
Students then participated in paired activities where one student acted as the “buddy” to another student experiencing a “mocked” disability.
The simulated disabilities included wearing slings, using socks to represent missing limbs, cotton wool in ears to reduce hearing, blindfolds and vision impairment goggles, as well as using a wheelchair.
“Students quickly learned that even moving from one place to another can present challenges for people living with a disability,” Mrs Allan said
“Fortunately, the Birchip P-12 School grounds are accessible in most areas, supporting inclusion for all.
Students then took part in modified ball activities where communication, teamwork, and support were essential. A passing game encouraged able-bodied students to assist their partner to fully participate, while the use of a “bell-ball” highlighted how visually impaired people can engage in sport by listening for the sound of the ball.
Following the practical activities, students returned to the classroom for open discussion about the barriers and challenges faced by people with disabilities.
Mrs Allan explained some of the facilities and aids available to support independence and inclusion, including raised footpaths for the visually impaired, braille signage, ramps, and modified sports programs.
Real-life stories of achievements by people with disabilities were shared to reinforce the importance of focusing on what a person can do, rather than what they can’t do.
“The session delivered an important message about inclusion, empathy, and equal opportunity in a fun and meaningful way,” Mrs Allan said.
Mallee Sports Assembly thanks staff members Rylee Smith and Mia, along with the students of Birchip P-12 School, for their enthusiastic participation and cooperation throughout the session.
The session is part of the “Access for All Abilities” program, funded by the State Government through Sport and Recreation Victoria, which focuses on promoting inclusive sport and recreation opportunities for people of all abilities.
Mallee Sports Assemblyworks with organisations such as St Arnaud’s McCallum Day Services to provide a range of programs for people with disabilities or the general public.
Past programs have included a four week swimming program, table tennis competition and more.
Read More: St Arnaud