House debates

Monday, 4 December 2017

Statements by Members

International Day of People with Disability

4:05 pm

Photo of Andrew WallaceAndrew Wallace (Fisher, Liberal Party) Share this | | Hansard source

Yesterday we celebrated International Day of People with Disability. I want to acknowledge the work of charities in my electorate who help to ensure that, in keeping with the themes of the day, we leave no-one behind and work to support people with disability to be active contributors to society. To mark the day, I recently visited Montrose Therapy and Respite Services in Birtinya, with my wife, Leonie, and daughter Sarah. Sarah lives with disability, and Montrose have provided her with the very highest standard of care and support.

In keeping with the meaning of International Day of People with Disability, Montrose aim to help people live a satisfying, happy life. They recognise that every individual is important. Montrose combine physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology, psychology and social work in a unique plan tailored for each of the 94 people they work with on the Sunshine Coast. Across Queensland, they help 1,300 people. They have provided more than 54,000 hours of therapy over the past 12 months. With this inclusive approach, they continue to expand and grow. They are now offering services not only on the Sunshine Coast but at 12 facilities from Townsville to the Gold Coast. I want to take this opportunity to thank Sarah's therapist, Amanda, the regional manager, Jo, and all the team at Montrose for their exceptional care.