The organiser of a nightclub event for people with a disability has been ‘‘overwhelmed’’ by the success of the launch party.
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More than 150 people of all abilities turned up to the first Ables club night, held at The Grand Hotel on Friday night.
Co-organiser Beau Thatcher said the numbers confirmed the need for an event like this, where people felt safe and supported.
‘‘It was great. So many people turned up – on their own, with friends, with family members or carers,’’ he said.
‘‘It was such a great atmosphere and you couldn’t get people off the dance floor.
‘‘There’s nothing like this in Wollongong and people just loved it – the response we’ve received since the event has been overwhelmingly positive.’’
Many who attended have taken to Ables Wollongong Facebook site to thank organisers.
‘‘I felt the night was fantastic, I can’t stop raving about it and personally can’t wait till the next one,’’ said one.
‘‘We felt very welcomed and had a good time,’’ posted another.
The concept was the brainchild of Mr Thatcher and Sean O’Neill – both of whom work in the disability services sector.
They have teamed up with Wollongong nightclub manager Lu Ristov - whose sister, Monika Ristova, uses a wheelchair.
‘‘The first event was at The Grand Hotel and everyone loved that venue, but we wanted to move it around so that people with a disability could experience different venues in the city,’’ Mr Thatcher said.
‘‘It’s about getting people out there, and getting rid of their anxieties and shyness so they can have a really great time.’’
The next Ables event will be at The Ivory Bar on Friday, September 12.