Plus: Free Concert - info inside
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October 2025
Message from CEO
Dear participants, families and carers,
Onemda recently hosted its 56th Annual General Meeting, followed by our 'Impact Through Partnerships' event, a celebration of collaboration and community.
I'm pleased to announce Kelly Schulz as Onemda's new Chairperson, after being elected by her peers shortly following the AGM. I'm looking forward to working closely with Kelly, who has been elevated after serving as Vice-Chair in recent times. I'd also like to acknowledge and highlight William Cracknell's leadership over the past four years as Chair, as he remains on the Board to continue to contribute his expertise.
The Impact Through Partnerships event, led by MC and Onemda Ambassador John Sotidis, was an evening that brought together participants, families, sponsors, and partners to reflect on the year’s achievements and share future directions. Our Embrace Café participants served delicious canapés, and the room was alive with conversation and connection.
A standout moment was participant Lily’s inspiring speech, where, through the support of Onemda, she shared how Assistive Technology helps her express her thoughts and experiences. The event highlighted how strong partnerships drive innovation and inclusion at Onemda.
We were delighted to welcome Merri-Bek Mayor Helen Davidson, Deputy Mayor Helen Politis, Councillor Chris Miles, and Glenroy Neighbourhood House Manager Bec Drake, who joined Onemda participants from the Hospitality Group and staff to share in the Annual Carers Lunch at Glenroy Neighbourhood House this month. The event was a wonderful opportunity to showcase our Embrace Café students and the impressive skills they have developed through this program.
Finally, we are excited to be rolling out our program re-development initiative, transforming the way we provide our participants greater choice and control through a refreshed, flexible program structure that builds skills, independence, and creativity.
As always, if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Kind regards,
Simon Lewis
Onemda CEO
The latest from our participants
Our 2026 Refreshed Curriculum!
We’re redefining what choice and control truly mean for people with disability. As we prepare for 2026, our refreshed curriculum, shaped by the voices of participants, marks a major step forward in how we design and deliver our programs.
Our First Ever Group Therapy Proved a Hit!
Benefits galore through a ten-week Physiotherapy program focused on improving physical health, building confidence, and promoting independence through fun, structured, and evidence-based exercise sessions.
Huge success at Sunbury Agricultural Show
It was smiles all round for participants from Onemda’s programs, who proudly took home multiple awards at the Sunbury Agricultural Show earlier this month.
More Great Stories From This Month
Onemda Hospitality Group & Glenroy Neighbourhood House hosted an Asian inspired carers lunch during National Carers Week
Stephie's Choice Foundation supports participants with surprise beautician visit.
EVENT: Stephie's Choice Foundation is hosting a Gala Ball on Saturday, 8 November. For more information and tickets click here.
Other Information
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra - Free Event
On Friday, 13 February 2026 at 7:30 pm, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) will present “Sonder – Find Your Voice Collective” at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. Admission is free and there are no bookings required, simply arrive early as gates open at 5pm and seating is on a first come basis. A limited number of reserved seats in the Stalls will be available for audience members with access needs, so please ask venue staff if you require this.
This special concert brings together the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and the Find Your Voice Collective (FYVC). FYVC unites around 250 people from southwest Victorian communities, celebrating diversity across ages, genders, abilities, cultural backgrounds, and identities. Over the past year they have collaborated with the MSO to create original works written by songwriters and artists who are d/Deaf or have lived experience of disability, supported by a 150-member choir and orchestral musicians. The result is a program of moving songs and stories that highlight our shared humanity and the importance of inclusion in the arts.
All Abilities Football Club - Lookout for Players
The Monash Demons All Ability Football Club are on the lookout for people interested in joining their Australian Rules football team for 2026. The Monash Demons All Ability Football Club's purpose is to provide inclusiveness for all individuals who have been diagnosed with an intellectual impairment or disability, this is achieved by developing skills while playing the much-loved Australian past time, football.
All Abilities Disco
Rotary Manningham City presents the Mayoral All Abilities Good Vibrations Disco this Saturday, 1 November 2025!
For just $5, join a Black-Tie event at the Manningham Function Centre. Bookings essential, and can be found via the link below:
SDA Information Session with InHab Australia
Discover the future of SDA Living with InHab Australia and Scope. For those with interest in learning more about SDA, our friends at InHab Australia have Independent SDA Expert & Carer Advocate, Greg Barry available to further inform you during a FREE Information Session in Hadfield on Tuesday, 11 November 2025 from 11:30am to 1:30pm.
Airport Information Update
Recently the federal Department of Home Affairs updated its policy which now means that travellers with autism can wear noise-cancelling headphones (when used as a disability support tool) through airport security screening. This is intended to reduce the stress and sensory overload at this point in someone’s travel journey.
