In July 2024, the ABC launched a call for factual stories from people with disabilities aiming to create a series of features to be played on ABC platforms. This initiative was part of the celebration for the International Day of People with Disabilities (IDoPWD)– a day dedicated to showcasing the achievements and lived experiences of this community.
Seize every opportunity
I never shy away at opportunities like this, as I enjoy telling my story in the hope of inspiring others to think positively and embrace challenges they may never have considered. In fact, I often have the chance to do just that in my casual role as an education trainer for Blind Sports and Recreation Victoria (BSRV).
Success!
So – after filling out the application form, I began working on my project and managed to complete and submit it before the deadline. A few weeks later, I received an email from Henry Hanson, to let me know that my pitch had been accepted. Henry is a content producer and reporter for the ABC Sydney, focusing on inclusion and disability sport. Needless to say, I was very excited.
Birding by Ear
My submission focused on “Birding by Ear”, a collaborative initiative by Parks Victoria and Blind Sports and Recreation Victoria. This unique forest walk takes place in Westgate Park, only a few kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD. I was fortunate enough to become the first volunteer guide with low vision to lead a walk, supported by Mip Grant, a Parks Victoria ranger. To this day, as far as I’m aware, I’m still the only one in this unique position.
The process from start to finish
The project was brought to life with support from Henry every step of the way. It was well-suited for an audio feature with three layers: narration, park sounds and music. My voice was recorded at the ABC Studios in Melbourne, while the park sounds were recorded on site at Westgate Park. Additional bird sounds, pre-recorded by Parks Victoria, enriched the soundscape. The music? That was my own harp music that I would normally play for palliative care patients, but it seemed fitting to underpin the other aspects of the audio. Henry, a musician himself, complemented the music with some additional sounds that added to the overall ambience.
The entire experience was incredibly rewarding. To listen to the finished product, please click on the audio link below.
The featured image was taken by Joanna Lay on site at Westgate Park.
