Trying sport a different way in Mildura

Inclusive sport doesn’t always begin with competition. Often, it starts with the opportunity to try something new in a space that feels welcoming, flexible, and supportive.

In Mildura, International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) provided a chance for local organisations to come together and create that kind of environment through a Come and Try All-Abilities Sports Day, delivered as part of the Sport4All program.

An immersive, hands-on approach to inclusion

Held at the Mildura Hothouse Basketball Stadium, the event was designed as an immersive experience – allowing participants to actively take part in a range of inclusive activities rather than simply observing from the sidelines.

Activities included wheelchair basketball, futsal, mini games, dancing, and creative activities such as badge making. Alongside the sport and movement sessions, local disability organisations shared information and connected with community members throughout the morning.

This hands-on format reflects a core Sport4All principle: inclusion is best understood when people experience it for themselves.

Inclusion through simple, practical adjustments

Wheelchair basketball and futsal were among the most popular activities on the day, offering clear examples of how sport can be adapted to support participation in different ways.

By adjusting equipment, space, and movement, these activities demonstrated how inclusive sport focuses on removing barriers rather than changing the person. Staff, facilitators, and participants joined in together, reinforcing that inclusion works best when everyone shares the experience.

These moments showed how small, thoughtful changes can open sport to more people, while still keeping it engaging, social, and fun.

Community collaboration in action

The success of the day was driven by strong collaboration across the Mildura region. Organisations involved included Leisure Networks – Sport4All, Mallee Sports Assembly, Mildura Rural City Council’s Inclusion Team, Bendigo Health’s Public Health Unit, Lifely, Intereach, Country Care Group, Value Care, Freedom Wheels, and SDA.

By working together, these organisations helped create an environment where inclusion was visible, practical, and community-led.

Why immersive experiences matter

For many people, a low-pressure, come-and-try environment can be the first step towards ongoing participation. Immersive sessions allow people to explore what sport can look like for them, build confidence, and discover new possibilities without expectation or commitment.

In Mildura, this approach highlighted how inclusive sport can begin with simple actions: offering choice, creating welcoming environments, and designing activities that work for a wider range of people.