Reflections from the Queenslanders with Disability Network (QDN) Forum

Picture of Kristy Bugeja

Kristy Bugeja

Inclusion Coach - Mackay

I had the privilege of presenting at the Inclusion Matters Forum in Mackay, hosted by the Queenslanders with Disability Network (QDN). The forum was part of a statewide series exploring the seven outcome areas of Australia’s Disability Strategy (ADS) and how we can work together to build more inclusive communities.
 
In Mackay, local QDN members identified three key focus areas that matter most to our community:
  • Inclusive Homes and Communities (including accessible transport)
  • Community Attitudes
  • Employment and Financial Security

The day brought together people with disability, advocates, service providers, and community organisations – all passionate about accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunity. It was inspiring to see so many people working collaboratively to strengthen local networks and drive positive change.

The panel Q&A sessions stood out for me. Hearing people share their lived experiences and practical ideas reinforced the power of community voice in shaping better outcomes for everyone.

Sharing the Sport4All mission

As the new Sport4All Inclusion Coach for Mackay, working in partnership with Mackay Regional Council, I had the opportunity to share Sport4All’s mission – promoting inclusive sport and recreation for people of all abilities.

I spoke about how sport can be a powerful connector, breaking down barriers and creating a sense of belonging for everyone. I also joined a panel discussion on Inclusive Homes and Communities, Community Attitudes, and Safety, Rights & Justice, alongside Nina Swara (Mackay Advocacy) and William Stafford (Community Accommodation Support Agency – CASA).

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Why this work matters to me

For me, this work is deeply personal. I grew up here in Mackay, playing tennis, netball, athletics, and touch football. At 15, a blood clot on my spine caused a nerve condition called transverse myelitis, giving me firsthand experience of the barriers that can exist for people with disability.
 
Returning to sport through wheelchair basketball helped me rebuild confidence, connection, and purpose, and reminded me how much inclusion matters.
Being part of this forum brought that full circle. It reminded me why I’m so passionate about what we do at Sport4All.
 
Inclusion doesn’t happen by accident, it happens when communities come together, listen, and take action.
 
Seeing the commitment and energy in the room made me proud of the Mackay community and optimistic about what’s ahead. Together, we’re proving that inclusion isn’t just a goal; it’s a shared responsibility – something we can all play a part in every day.

About the Forum

The Inclusion Matters Forums are hosted by QDN Peer Leaders and explore what real inclusion looks like across the seven outcome areas of Australia’s Disability Strategy 2021–2031: Employment and Financial Security, Inclusive Homes and Communities, Safety Rights and Justice, Personal and Community Support, Education and Learning, Health and Wellbeing, and Community Attitudes.

The Mackay event featured local panellists including Nina Swara (Mackay Advocacy), William Stafford (CASA), Robert Ryan (Mackay Regional Council), and Teresea Anderson (Greater Whitsunday Alliance).

Learn about Sport4All Inclusion Coaches
Queenslanders With Disability Network (QDN)

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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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