Williams brings lived experience to committee

(Kaitlyn Baker/Unsplash)

An Anglesea man will use his lived experience of disability to help improve accessibility across the Surf Coast.

Surf Coast Shire Council unanimously agreed to appoint Rick Williams to the All Abilities Advisory Committee (AAAC) for three years during its meeting on Tuesday, December 10.

Councillor Leon Walker said it was great to have Mr Williams take on the role and that he would bring a range of experience to the committee.

“As the councillor representative, I look forward to working alongside Rick Williams and the AAAC for advocating improved access for all abilities across the Surf Coast,” he said.

Mr Williams submitted his expression of interest in joining the AAAC in June following four prior members completing their terms and two resignations from the committee.

Cr Tony Phelps said having a diverse group of people on the committee was important to reflect the Surf Coast community.

“It’s important to have this sort of input into council, and I appreciate the people that have put their hands up to join the committee,” he said.

The AAAC is a voluntary committee with candidates assessed on their understanding of Surf Coast’s access and inclusion barriers and ability to acknowledge the positive contribution of people with disability within the community.

Candidates also needed to have a strong connection to the region, be able to commit up to four hours of their time to the committee and work well in a group setting.