Albany Ability Festival to celebrate community and bring people together

Albany Town Square will host a celebration of culture, talent and artistic flare at the Albany Ability Festival on Thursday. The festival started in 2010 as an expo at Albany Leisure and Aquatic Centre and has grown into a celebration of what people with disability have to offer the community. “It’s a festival in the heart of Albany with live entertainment, art and craft markets and activities,” event organisation committee spokesperson Denise Kay said. “There will be singers, poets, dancers and performers on stage alongside market stalls run by people with disability selling their wares. It is an inclusive event.” Organisers hope the festival will raise awareness and challenge misconceptions about people with disability. “We hope to build relationships between people with disability, community organisations, agencies, businesses, with volunteers and staff,” Ms Kay said. “Celebrating ability and bringing it into the centre of town brings it out into the community.” On the day, attendees will be able to engage with community organisations and participate in activities including dot painting, face painting, drumming and a community canvas run by the Community Living Association. Albany Secondary Education Support Centre will be providing information about the school and its award-winning recycling program. Disabled Surfers and Cycling Without Age will also be at the festival to provide information about how their programs help people to get moving and get involved with the community.