New gong for our Elizabeth
GEELONG’S Elizabeth Spurdle has been recognised for her years of service fighting for better and safer access for those with disabilities.
Ms Spurdle yesterday won the Volunteer award at the Victorian Disability Awards, presented by State Housing, Disability and Ageing Minister Martin Foley.
Ms Spurdle was nominated by the City of Greater Geelong for her work as an inaugural member of the city’s Street Access for the Aged and People with Disability Advisory Committee, and subsequent Disability Advisory Committee, which have advocated for greater access and inclusion since the early 2000s.
Ms Spurdle said whether it was someone in a wheelchair, with a walking aid, or a pram, she would always consult with and pay attention to the issues of those around her and report back to the committee to push for changes.
“I was really throwing myself into it,” she said. “We’re all here to help.” Ms Spurdle, who has been hospitalised for much of the past year, said finding out she was a finalist for the awards had been an inspiration.
“That gave me a really big boost,” she said. “This is my first real event since getting out of hospital four weeks ago, it’s a really big day for me.”
Ms Spurdle said there was still plenty of work to do when it comes to inclusion and disability access.
“I’ll keep sticking my nose in,” she laughed.
At the Melbourne awards ceremony yesterday, Mr Foley praised Ms Spurdle and the other winners and finalists for their “outstanding achievements”.
“It’s important that we recognise how hard they’ve worked to empower people with disability and create a more inclusive community,” Mr Foley said.
For the full list of awards recipients, visit dhhs.vic.gov.au/ disabilityawards