The rhythm of drums, the power of voices raised together, and the energy of hundreds gathering to celebrate rights, voices, and choices – this was Loud and Clear QLD’s 10th Anniversary Conference and Concert on the Sunshine Coast.
Over two transformative days in October, Queensland’s only all-abilities conference designed by people with intellectual disabilities, for people of all abilities, brought together record numbers from across the state and beyond. The theme “Rights, Voices and Choices” was lived, breathed, and celebrated in every session, workshop, and conversation.
Leading the Conversation
When people with intellectual disabilities lead, real change happens. Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli and Federal MP Andrew Wallace faced direct questions from the disability community in our Q&A Panel, while Dr Michelle Browning from Decision Agency led a transformative workshop on supported decision-making, putting control back where it belongs.
Local leaders Cr Tim Burns and Marty Hunt MP discussed building truly inclusive communities, while the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, Surf Life Saving Queensland, QLD Health, and Bendigo Bank Woombye shared how they’re creating real accessibility and change.
Voices That Move Us
Rebecca Vizi brought her journey as a Functional Neurological Disorder advocate, Zumba instructor, disabled bodybuilder, and aspiring para-powerlifter to life in “Strong Body, Strong Mind.” MC Wheels (Nathan Tessman), the Aussie hip-hop artist living with SMARD 1, delivered a powerful message about how disability can’t stop artistic dreams. Ky and Tee Lovell’s “Unplugged: Soundtrack of my Mind” demonstrated how drums unite communities.
Getting Hands On
Come and Try workshops gave everyone opportunities to discover something new: rugby league with Connect, bocce with Special Olympics, ballroom dancing, martial arts with NAYILS, and Zumba Gold. Equity Works Bongo Beatz sessions had the room drumming together, while Limitless Soul Dance Class brought joy and movement to participants of all abilities.
A Night to Remember
Friday night’s All-Abilities Concert brought the celebration to its peak. Australian Idol Winner 2025 Marshall Hamburger headlined, MC Wheels brought his hip-hop energy from the conference stage to the concert floor, and the Redcliffe Peninsula Drum Circle with Ky Lovell had everyone united through rhythm.
The conference proved what a decade of Loud and Clear QLD has built: when people with intellectual disabilities lead conversations and build community connections, real change happens. This isn’t the end of the story – it’s momentum for the next ten years.
Thank you to our sponsors: Bendigo Bank Woombye, Jasper Dental Centre, Sunshine Coast Council, and Queensland Government.