News

Making dreams a reality
Thu, Jun 19 2008

Thanks to some great partnerships, Maffra resident Maree Bermingham has seen her dream of swimming come true.

Because she uses a wheelchair, swimming has always been a difficult proposition for Maree.

However, her staff at the EW Tipping Foundation, with assistance from many others, have found a way to make it work.

EW Tipping Senior Co-ordinator Pauline Davies said the Foundation team at the shared supported accommodation home Queen Street, where Maree lives, formed strong partnerships with staff at the Maffra Swimming Pool and the George Gray Centre.

“We investigated safety issues with the pool management team, and we organised staff to complete a swimming certificate,” said Pauline. “We were also able to identify some improvements in procedure, signage and equipment at the pool which would help not only Maree but also many others who access the hydrotherapy pool. The team at the pool were only too happy to help.”

Maree is now swimming on a regular basis, both with her staff at the EW Tipping Foundation and the George Gray Centre.

“Everyone has worked together to make Maree’s goal a reality, particularly her staff team at Queen Street who initiated the project,” said Pauline. “This is a great example of how communities are becoming more and more inclusive. Maffra should be proud!”

The EW Tipping Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation helping people to live life their way. In Gippsland, it supports people with disabilities, children, older Victorians and carers, and it also fosters inclusive communities.