Wheelchairs - Taking a Spin at the Mask Festival

Square Dancing for Wheelchairs.

     The Silver Spinners is a group of square dancing enthusiasts.  The name "Silver Spinners" relates to the wheels of the chairs turning around.  Above are some photos of the group (young and young at heart) all enjoying the spins and turns of the square dance at the Mask Festival.
     You may be wondering about the connection between people with a disability and a mask festival.  Well, as we all know, having a disability is sometimes like wearing a mask.  Some people only see the disability, not the person behind the disability.  The purpose of having the Silver Spinners attend the Mask Festival was to raise awareness about the need to engage with  each person no matter the disability.  We all have feelings, needs and desires we should treat every person as an individual no matter what their cultural diversity or their disability.

     I met the Silver Spinners group about 3 months ago at their Sunday meeting venue in Burwood.  I was immediately taken with their commitment to each other and the group's square dancing activities that bring so much enjoyment to the group and provide such a great inclusive activity. Members come from as far away as Frankston and Werribee to dance.   
     Unfortunately their numbers have fallen over time and I was informed that if they are unable to increase their membership soon the group will need to fold.  This would be very sad as square dancing is obviously important to them all, whether they are pushers, people in wheelchairs or dance partners.  

Photo: Square Dance Caller:  Ralph with  Cynthia the Louise MCC Manager

You CAN help.  If you know of any person with a disability who would like to join a wheelchair square dance group please invite them to come along for a free try. If you would like to contact  the group please send an e.mail to louisemcc@aanet.com.au attention Cynthia.  Remember you could change someone's life!