April 2008

June day to sizzle

No matter what the weather, June 6 will be a good day as Interchange holds its annual Great Australian Sunny Sizzle at Federation Square.

The Great Australian Sunny Sizzle aims to raise awareness of the needs of young people with a disability and their families, as well as volunteering opportunities within Interchange.

With the help of volunteers, Interchange provides support and respite to more than 2,500 families but there are still more than 1,700 families on the waiting list for services due to a lack of volunteers.

The all-day June 6 event will include sizzling barbeques, bands on stage all day, a beach scene with volleyball, jumping castles, a football clinic with AFL players, face painting and balloon giveaways.

‘Even if it’s a cold winter’s day the Great Australian Sunny Sizzle will bring cheer and warmth to the people of Melbourne and especially to those with a disability and their carers,’ said Interchange’s Kristy Enright.

Joining in the Sunny Day celebrations will be sporting heroes and Interchange ambassadors Nick Stevens from Carlton Football Club, Daniel Giansiracusa from the Western Bulldogs and Bryce Alman, Australian Wheelchair Rugby Olympian and captain of the Wheelchair Rugby Victoria team.

During the month of May, Victorians are encouraged to hold their own Great Australian Sunny Sizzle in their school, workplace or sports club in order to raise awareness of volunteering opportunities within Interchange as well as to raise some much-needed funds.

All proceeds will go towards strengthening and increasing the services and opportunities that Interchange offers young people with a disability their families.

•           For information about holding a Great Australian Sunny Sizzle or how to become a volunteer call 1300 300 436 or visit www.interchange.org.au.