Newcastle launches inclusive sport, arts and recreation directory

newy.com.au – A free City of Newcastle online directory has been launched to help people who face barriers to participation find inclusive sport, recreation and arts programs across the city.

The guide was unveiled as hundreds of people took part in an adaptive sports event today, marking the latest step in the council’s work to improve access and inclusion in Newcastle.

The directory brings together welcoming events and programs from more than a dozen local organisations, with a focus on year-round opportunities for people with disability, women, seniors, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, culturally diverse communities and LGBTQIA+ communities.

City of Newcastle executive manager community and recreation Lynn Duffy said the directory was part of a broader push to strengthen social connection.

“City of Newcastle is committed to finding ways to increase social inclusion and community connections,” Ms Duffy said.

“For the past four years we have partnered with Disability Sports Australia to deliver the Abilities Unleashed program in Newcastle, which has supported more than 1,000 children and adults living with a disability to engage in sport at the annual come-and-try events.

“The launch of our new online directory today takes this support a step further, highlighting year-round opportunities in sport, recreation and art for a range of community members who may experience barriers to participation, including people with a disability, women, seniors, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, culturally diverse and LGBTQIA+ communities.

“It includes resources for local organisations to become more inclusive and shares real stories from participants, giving community members confidence to take the first step toward getting involved.”

The directory features programs including Northern NSW Football’s walking football for over-50s with limited mobility, the Newcastle Merfolk group, Society of Artists Newcastle and a modified nippers program at Nobbys Surf Life Saving Club.

It also highlights the stories behind inclusive initiatives, such as the Shake, Rattle and Roll choir, which was established after its founder’s diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease, and a surf coach who combined her passion for surfing with her work in the disability space to offer free surf lessons for children with autism.

Chair of City of Newcastle’s Access and Inclusion Committee Cr Adamczyk said the launch built on the success of Abilities Unleashed.

“Abilities Unleashed shows what’s possible when barriers are removed, giving everyone the opportunity to try new activities, build confidence and connect with others through sport,” Cr Adamczyk said.

“The directory builds on this by making it easier for people to find local programs and spaces that are welcoming and inclusive all year round.

“This work is part of our Disability Inclusion Access Plan, which guides practical improvements to access and inclusion across Council services, facilities and public spaces, and is up for renewal in 2027.

“Community members can help shape the next iteration of the plan by sharing their experiences to highlight what could be improved, and how we can continue to create a more inclusive Newcastle.”

The Inclusive Sports, Arts and Recreation Directory is available through City of Newcastle’s Community Directory webpage. Community members can also make a submission on the Disability Inclusion Access Plan via the Have Your Say page on the council’s website before Monday 15 June.