Alice Springs Town Council

Inclusive Sports Day Showcases Adaptive Sports at Geographe Leisure Centre
This case study showcases a collaborative effort between Sport4All, the Alice Springs Town Council (ASTC), and the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) to deliver a truly inclusive ice-skating experience in the heart of Australia. By transforming the Alice Springs Convention Centre into the “coolest place in town”, this initiative fostered community connection and joy, demonstrating the power of sport to break down barriers.

Background

The ASTC, with support from the NIAA, hosts an annual ice-skating program, offering a unique recreational activity in the desert landscape. This year, Sport4All partnered with them to enhance the program’s inclusion for people with disability. Recognising the diverse needs within the community, the goal was to create an environment where everyone could participate and enjoy the thrill of ice skating.

Alice Springs, with a population of over 25,000, boasts a rich cultural tapestry, including a significant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population (20.6% according to 2021 ABS Data). Recognising that approximately 4% of the population in the Alice Springs Town Council reported needing assistance in their day-to-day lives due to disability, this program aimed to cater to this diverse population, ensuring everyone felt welcome on the ice.
Alice Sprint Town Council Ice Skating Event Flyer

Solution: Inclusive Approach

Sport4All played a crucial role in ensuring the program’s inclusivity. Thomas Savaiinaea, our dedicated Inclusion Coach with the ASTC, spearheaded the initiative. Thomas diligently promoted the program across disability networks and facilitated dedicated sessions for people with disability, providing on-site support to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Key features included:

  • Dedicated Sessions: Quiet, modified sessions with smaller groups, adjusted lighting, and reduced music volume catered to sensory sensitivities.
  • Assistive Equipment: Standing frames provided additional support, and wheelchair access to the rink was ensured.
  • Community Outreach: Thomas actively engaged with disability networks to raise awareness and encourage participation.
  • Transportation: People from remote communities were provided with transportation, enabling them to join the fun.
  • Free-of-Charge: The program was entirely free, removing financial barriers to participation.

Impact: Over 4100 Participants!

The program saw a significant increase in participation from people with disability, including those from First Nations communities and remote areas.
Video Source: Mental Health Association Central Australia Facebook Page. Link here.

“We’ve got kids coming from remote communities and the look on their faces – they’ve never seen so much ice before, never seen snow before! It’s the first time we’ve run the all-abilities sessions, and it’s amazing to see people in wheelchairs, for example, get a chance to play on the ice. It’s been super popular, not just for people with physical disabilities but also people who maybe need a bit more support or a quieter space.”

Nicole Battle
Community Development Director, Alice Springs Town Council

Key Learnings

  • Understanding Needs: Collaborating closely with local communities and disability organisations is essential to identify and address specific needs.
  • Small Adjustments, Big Impact: Simple modifications to the environment and program schedule can significantly enhance inclusivity.
  • The Power of Sport: Sport unites people and fosters a sense of belonging, regardless of ability.  
  • Uniqueness of the Experience: Ice skating in the desert created a sense of excitement and wonder, attracting a diverse range of participants.
This event exemplifies how Sport4All’s expertise can transform sporting events into truly inclusive experiences. By working together, we can break down barriers and ensure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the physical, social, and emotional benefits of sport.
A person in a wheelchair being assisted by another person pushing from behind on an ice skating rink in Alice Springs. In the background, others are also enjoying ice skating.

Image Source: Alice Springs Town Council

"Many participants from First Nations communities embraced the challenge of ice skating for the first time, showcasing resilience and a willingness to try new things."

Thomas Savaiinaea

Sport4All Inclusion Coach, Alice Springs Town Council
Sport4All Team Click here to Sport4All Team
Sport4All Program Click here to Sport4All Program
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Andrew Negrelli

“Inclusive sport matters to me because there is no I in team and everyone is included. Inclusive sport looks like one big happy family all together. I love sport because it keeps me fit and active, and I feel part of a team”

Andrew Playing Tennis
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