The City of Playford has recognised outstanding individuals, businesses and organisations at this year’s International Day of People with Disability – Mayoral Awards, celebrating the people whose leadership, creativity and dedication are strengthening inclusion and connection across our community.

Awards were presented by Mayor Glen Docherty at Celebration of Ability – The Art of Us, with several nominees also receiving Mayoral Commendations for contributions that strongly embodied the spirit of inclusion.

Personal Development commendations were awarded to Amerie, ICASPA performers and the Transition Program for Business. In the Employment and Education category, commendations went to the SAPOL Community Education Branch and Barkuma.

Mayor Docherty also recognised nominees demonstrating strong inclusive practice within the local business sector. Salisbury Bowland and Pottery with Kate each received an Inclusive Business Practice Recognition Certificate to acknowledge their commitment to creating welcoming and accessible spaces across Playford.

Mayor Glenn Docherty says these acknowledgements recognise some of our community’s incredible people and the work they do, while encouraging them to continue their positive impact.

“I am impressed by the calibre and breadth of nominations received this year, noting that Playford’s community continues to set the bar higher with new and innovative approaches that help people feel welcome, connected and valued,” Mayor Docherty said.

“The City of Playford is proud to celebrate International Day of People with Disability by recognising and acknowledging those who are making a positive difference throughout our community.”

Mayor Docherty believes this year’s nominees reflect a strong and growing culture of access and inclusion, representing passionate self-advocates, inclusive local businesses, creative community groups and forward-thinking organisations making a practical difference in people’s everyday lives.

This year, the Personal Development Award was presented to Joshua Antonello, a vibrant and much-loved member of the community whose singing, dancing and infectious joy lights up ICASPA performances across the region.

The Sports, Recreation and Arts Award was awarded to Harley Hall and Robert Taylor, cultural mentors whose work in the Belonging in the North project is helping Aboriginal families with disability build cultural pride, connection and self-belief.

Through storytelling, dance, boomerang throwing and other hands-on cultural activities, they adapt their approach to ensure every child can participate with confidence.

The Business, Employment and Education Award went to Enable Fitness, which was recognised for its accessible, disability-exclusive fitness centres and evidence-based exercise physiology programs.

The Community Service Award was presented to the Make It Easy App, a South Australian initiative transforming the way inclusive communication is delivered.

Designed to provide clear, simplified and visually supported information for people with disability, it empowers users to make informed decisions and participate independently in community life.

Nominations for the Mayoral Awards are open all year. Visit https://www.playford.sa.gov.au... to nominate.