The True Vibe of a DiscoAbility Event

The True Vibe of a DiscoAbility Event

Another DiscoAbility event done and dusted — and what a night! We had a fantastic mix of familiar faces and brand-new ones, with a slightly older crowd this time but still plenty of energy on the dance floor. Our aim is always to make this a space where participants, providers, and support workers can all have fun together — and once again, you didn’t disappoint.

It’s honestly one of my favourite things to see: half the time, I couldn’t tell who was a participant and who was a provider because everyone was just in the moment — dancing, laughing, and having a great time together. That’s exactly the vibe we want.

The tweaks that made a difference

I listened to your feedback from the last event, and we made some changes:

• Better toilets (a crowd favourite – no one ever forgets bad toilets)

• More prizes – you asked, we delivered! I’ve stocked up on a whole range of goodies and I’m always on the lookout for fresh ideas. As one guy running the show, I grab what I can when I see a bargain, so the variety will keep growing over time.

• Improved music setup – although, in true event fashion, our speakers decided they wanted to connect to every Bluetooth device in the building. We adapt, we laugh, we learn.

  
  

Music requests – keeping the vibe right

On music requests: I love letting participants have a say, but I noticed a lot of the requested songs were absolute bangers… for a solo Spotify session, not so much for keeping a disco dance floor buzzing. So I’m going to put my creative hat on for the next one – finding a way to keep the fun-for-everyone vibe while still giving people that ownership of the playlist.

Food situation – the pizza trial

Yes, there was pizza… but not for sale. We were testing the ovens for future events, so we shared some slices for free on the night — but this was a one-off just for the trial. Selling food means navigating council permits and requirements, and while we’re committed to doing it properly, it may take a little while. We’re working on options so that in the future, those late-night cravings will be well and truly sorted.

Prizes, costumes, and fun

Some amazing costumes hit the dance floor, with Best Dressed going to Beetlejuice. Our new voting system worked perfectly — and I didn’t have to make the decision alone (win-win!).

We also had a heap more prizes this time, based on feedback from our last event. The variety will keep growing as I add more over time. I’d also love to see other disability-friendly businesses jump in and donate prizes — especially ones that create social opportunities for participants.

Why these nights matter

Yes, they’re fun. Yes, they’re full of dancing, smiles, and the occasional dad joke. But they’re also about connection — building friendships, sharing moments, and creating a space where everyone feels welcome. That’s why I’m aiming to keep these on a four-weekly schedule (venue availability permitting).

The more people who join us, the stronger the community becomes. So, if you know someone who would love a DiscoAbility event, share this blog and spread the word.

💬 Shoutout time!

A huge thank you to Upper Coomera Classes for their generous prize donations — from candles to gift cards, these goodies really lit up the night (literally and figuratively).

And of course, a big thanks to CrossLife Helensvale for hosting us in their space. Having a venue that works with us to make the night more accessible and welcoming makes all the difference.

While I’m at it, I have to give a massive thank you to our amazing helpers — Dee from Care to Share Gold Coast, Tash (Mum of Josh), Bella (Josh’s sister), and Josh and Morgan from PathStart.

And a special shout-out to Melody for stepping up as the unofficial “Boss Lady” of the dance floor, showing everyone how to nail the Nutbush. I didn’t catch the full masterclass on video (rookie mistake), but I did manage to snap a few of her moves — and trust me, she was clearly qualified for the role.

Honestly, I don’t think DiscoAbility would still be running without you all pitching in (I would have realised by now I can’t do it alone… and probably curled up in a ball somewhere).

If you had a blast at DiscoAbility (and let’s be honest, how could you not?), you’ll want to keep an eye on our Events page for the next one. We’re aiming to run these every four weeks (venue availability depending), so the page will be updated as soon as the next date and location are confirmed.

And if you’re looking for more ways to connect, move, and laugh in between discos, check out our FrieNDIS Inclusive Fitness & Social programs. From games to group fitness to social outings, we’re all about creating spaces where everyone feels welcome, valued, and part of the fun.