ON Thursday, the Southern Grampians Shire Council (SGSC) invited members of the community to gather together for the official unveiling of Hamilton’s latest mural marking International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) – celebrated worldwide on Tuesday, December 3.

The mural (situated on the laneway next to the Greater Hamilton Library) was a collaborative project painted last month by Mr Shannahan with the assistance of various other locals who painted a heart on the artwork.

“We had about between 50 and 100 people come and show their love by putting a heart on the mural,” Mr Shannahan said.

“To personalise it, I’ve recently added caricatures of some of our disabled community which I glued on last night (Wednesday).”

This project was an appealing commission for Mr Shannahan who grew up with a brother with a disability and has worked at the Mulleraterong Centre for several years.

“I’ve grown up with disability as part of my world, so it’s always been a passion of mine,” he said.

“This is a personal mural that I’m passionate about and it is my own artwork as opposed to a generic (business based) sign or symbol.”

Painted on the mural are the words, A disability doesn’t have to be a social barrier. Good etiquette begins with inclusion not exclusion. 

When asked by The Spectator what he would like the community to feel when viewing the mural, Mr Shannahan’s response was, “I think I’d love it to spark that realisation that they know these people (depicted in the caricatures) and that they’re part of the community … and (they might say) ‘Oh, I know him, I see him at the café or walking down the street.’

Mr Shannahan said his wish was that those admiring the mural would know the disabled community are supported and that they are a big part of the local community.

In addition, the SGSC were also excited to announce a series of other events to mark IDPwD.

On Tuesday, December 10, Party with the Ponies will return to the Hamilton Racecourse, an event that has become a beloved fixture on the Southern Grampians calendar.

This event which has been open to the broader community will welcome disability and community groups from across the region, including Hamilton, Ararat, Terang, Portland, Warracknabeal, Warrnambool, and Millicent.

Starting at 11am, the day has promised something for everyone, with an animal nursery, face painting, crazy hair, giant ball games, parachute games, and roving entertainment.

The highlight of the event will be the much-loved Fashions on the Field.

Other events will be popping up across the Shire at the Greater Hamilton Library and the Hamilton Gallery to mark the occasion.

SGSC chief executive, Tony Doyle expressed his enthusiasm for the program and said, “Council is partnering with Hamilton Community House, the Hamilton Racing Club, and other groups to support and celebrate the people in our community who are living with disabilities.

“We encourage everyone to join in the celebration of IDPwD and to appreciate the incredible contributions of people with disabilities to our shire,” he continued.

“This day is a reminder of the importance of accessibility, equality, and inclusivity, and it invites all of us to play a part in creating a welcoming and supportive shire for everyone.”