Showstopping support

THE Showstoppers event went off with a bang last week, with a COVID-19 adequate crowd making its way through the halls, admiring the art gallery and the Cassie Fisher Designs fashion show.

 “It was about showing ability instead of disability,” said Showstoppers Disability Service founder, Jill Hamling.

“We had Michael Johnsen, Councillor Sue Abbott and Pauline Carrigan from Where Theres a Will through and they all bought items for sale,” she said.

“It was quality over quantity.”

Gypsie-Rose Whitby and Cassie Fisher smiling for the camera after a long day showcasing their stuff.

Artwork flooded the halls and a crafts stall was set up outside for visitors to purchase hand made items, with all proceeds going straight back into the service.

“We had about ten or twelve people come through . . . they were very supportive and hopefully will follow through with what they’ve spoken about,” said Showstoppers Disability Service co-worker and teacher Patricia Taylor.

“We had a good couple of days . . . in the past we haven’t had a great deal of chance to integrate with the community, the fact that we got it out this time and during COVID-19 was a big thing,” she said.

“There’s a lot of people out there that don’t know what we do.

“I’ve been working here for about 15 months and I still get asked what Showstoppers is all about.

“The girls were happy to do their thing, it was a big thing for all of them.” 

The Showstoppers Disability Service focuses on teaching both career and life skills, whilst offering direction and support along the way.

The service has started three businesses, each tailored to Cassie, Gyspy Rose and Lizzie. 

“It’s a lot of work but we’re really making so much progress and the girls are proud of what they’ve done so it’s great that people came and bought things and saw what we’re all about,” said Ms Hamling.