top of page
Search

Eagleby Networking Was Quiet… But the Hidden Disability Sunflower Talk Was Worth It

  • Writer: Jase
    Jase
  • 2 minutes ago
  • 3 min read


Eagleby Networking Was Quiet… But the Hidden Disability Sunflower Talk Was Worth It

Hidden disability sunflower lanyards and buttons

Today’s networking event at Eagleby Neighbourhood Centre was a more cosy one, probably being the day after Easter.


Hope everyone had a good holiday and didn’t have too big a hangover.


Big thanks to the amazing team at Eagleby Neighbourhood Centre whose awesome idea and connections brought us this opportunity.


Of course, I forgot to take photos, so the Sunflower lanyard can be our picture.


We had a chance to actually sit and have a proper chat between the few of us there, which was good. I do quite like it when we have a small group, as we get more of a chance to get to know each other.

It was awesome to have Shelly Lausberg as a guest speaker, running us through the Sunflower Initiative.

Here’s the information she shared.


The Sunflower Initiative


This is designed to help recognise the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, understand what non-visible disabilities are, and feel more confident offering support to people who choose to wear it.


What is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower?


The lanyard is a nice, easy, non-confrontational “saying something without saying something” way for people with disabilities to let others know they may require assistance.


Any of us working with disabilities are aware that so many disabilities are not as obvious as a wheelchair or a missing limb. Some disabilities are quite well hidden, and some disabilities stay hidden until they don’t.


I love that the Sunflower lanyards (also available in button, badge and bangle flavours) make way for comfort and acceptance, and help those buttons that might not need to be pushed from being pushed.


People now wear it while travelling, shopping, queuing, or in any public space where they may need extra support, understanding, or time.


Staff in participating organisations are trained to recognise it and offer support.


What is a Hidden Disability?


Some disabilities are visible. A lot aren’t.

Hidden disabilities can include:

  • Autism

  • Chronic pain

  • Dementia

  • Anxiety

  • ADHD

  • Dyslexia

As well as:

  • Mental health conditions

  • Learning difficulties

  • Sensory impairments

  • Mobility, speech, visual or hearing challenges

Only 7% of people with disabilities use a wheelchair.


A lot of people are dealing with things you won’t see unless they tell you.

Some days are manageable. Some days are exhausting, painful, or isolating.

Without something like the Sunflower, those challenges often go unnoticed. Or the response to those challenges gets noticed and reacted to, adding dominoes.

Or, as we spoke about today, sometimes it just gives a sense of belonging, knowing you are in a place where you are ok, safe, and understood.


What should I do if I see a Sunflower?

First make sure to get down and bow to your floral overlords muahaha! (Sorry, I couldn't help myself)

If someone is wearing the Sunflower, it means they may need a bit more time, patience, or support.

That’s it.

  • Ask “Can I help you?”

  • Listen and show respect

  • Speak directly to them

  • Don’t ask about their disability

  • Don’t assume

  • Be patient

  • Let them guide what they need

There’s no perfect way to respond. Just be a decent human.


Who was there


Erica Morgante


ClearSky Allied Health

Multidisciplinary allied health supporting NDIS participants, families, and support coordinators.

New addition is an Allied Health Assistant.

ClearSky doesn’t charge travel for Behaviour Support, which is a big saving and more support for participants.

They also offer a Pre-Referral Valet Service to help with capacity, location, and clinician matching before referral.

Contact:Erica Morgante – 0461 496 003


Angela Hartley


United Disability

United Disability provides personalised support to help people live more independently and stay connected to their community.

Supports are tailored to individual goals, whether that’s daily living, community access, or building confidence.


Tiana The


Logan Youth Foyer

Transitional housing supporting young people moving towards independence.

Tiana works as a Youth Development Coach, helping build life skills, stability, and direction.

Contact:tthe@wmq.org.au ANNND ME (Jase)

I run inclusive fitness and social programs across the Gold Coast and Logan.


What I do isn’t just fitness. Fitness is the tool. The goal is building confidence, connection, and helping people find real friends that aren't paid to be there.


Sessions range from group fitness and games through to 1:1 support where needed, with everything adapted to the individual. I also run social events like DiscoAbility and weekend activities to help people connect outside of sessions.


Contact

Jase – Slim Gym📞 0412 163 317

Reach out via text or through the website


Small group today, but it gave us the chance to actually talk properly, which doesn’t always happen at bigger events. And, I found out that people fold socks. I did not know this, I am still deciding what I need to do with this information See you next month at Helensvale ARRC for our next networking event

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page