AN all-abilities dance crew based in Frankston is preparing to bust some moves at a free fun day on Sunday 29 November.
The BAM Allstars group runs weekly dance classes for children, teens and adults with disabilities in Frankston and Brighton.
It was started by Lisa Murphy, who founded the group in 2009 when she was looking for a dance class for her son, Buster, who has Down Syndrome.
“Finding there was nothing suitable for his needs, I decided to get something started, and now, six years on, here we are,” she said last week. “It has been an enormous joyful and a privilege to watch our little group grow and develop over the years.”
Ms Murphy said the Allstars enjoyed performing at community events, such as the upcoming Out & About Fun Day.
The event, organised by not-for-profit organisation Villa Maria Catholic Homes and supported by CityLink, aims to enable people with disabilities and mobility limitations to experience life as it should be – 100 per cent accessible.
It will include all-abilities sports and activities at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre, including a Come and Try clinic held by Cricket Victoria, pop-up sensory garden designed by Swinburne University, live music, animal farm, roving entertainers, face painting and a sausage sizzle.
“Performing at last year’s event was great,” Ms Murphy said. “The students were all keen to come along – some even coming from Rosebud.”
Lisa described the day as a “great initiative”. “I think it also serves as a reminder to the general population about how difficult it can be to just participate in activities and events around Melbourne due to a lack of disability access.”
The Out & About Fun Day will be held noon-4pm, Sunday 29 November, at the Coot Picnic Area, Aughtie Drive, Albert Park.
Details: outandaboutday.com.au or see bamallstars.org.au