Lmst

The full People with Disability Australia forum from last week, is now available to view online. You can read more about the forum and find the link to the video, here:
https://pwd.org.au/were-here-were-queer-were-disabled-and-we-are-in-focus/

I will be delivering a talk at People with Disability Australia's Online National Forum, on Wednesday. The topic is InFocus: Queer & Disabled. I hope you will join me at this amazing event.

The image is an advertisement for an online national forum titled "InFocus: Queer & Disabled," organized by People with Disability Australia (PWDA). It includes details such as the date (Wednesday, 18 February 2026) and time (1:00 PM to 3:00 PM AEDT), along with a call to action to "REGISTER NOW." The background features a colorful rainbow gradient.

Very proud to lend my voice to this campaign, and support 'People with Disability Australia' in the amazing work that they do!

The social tile is for People with Disability Australia's (PWDA) "InFocus: Queer & Disabled" campaign, featuring Shannon with her dog in a stroller, surrounded by rainbow flags and other people in the background.

Shannon has dark hair and is wearing a black t-shirt with a rainbow flag on it. She is colorful with rainbow bands on her wrists and rainbow glitter earrings. She is accompanied by a small black dog in a stroller. The dog has a rainbow band around its neck.

The background of the image features rainbow flags and other people standing around. The people in the background are not clearly visible, but they appear to be participating in a celebration or event.

A text speech bubble on the right side of the image reads, "InFocus to me means learning to take up space and not being apologetic for showing up as our authentic selves."
The text is written in blue font and is placed inside a white speech bubble.

In the bottom-right corner of the image, the logos of PWDA and InFocus: Queer & Disabled are displayed. The logos are colorful and feature the words "People with Disability Australia" and "InFocus: Queer & Disabled," respectively. The image features a bright and bold color scheme, with shades of pink, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. The rainbow flags and colorful clothing worn by Shannon and other people in the background add to the vibrant atmosphere of the image.

Always proud to march with PWDA and represent queer disabled people at MidSumma Pride March.

Oh, and in very welcome news, I was advised by a member of the MidSumma organising committee today, that my feedback from last year was directly responsible for the implementation of several new changes to disability access at this years event. This included making the accessible drop off point much closer, adding an accessible pick up location, marshals to direct people in wheelchairs to curb cutouts at the end of the march, and chairs being made available for disabled people to sit on in Catani Gardens. They also noted additional feedback today to consider for next year's march!

Winning :)

#InFocus #InFocusQueerAndDisabled #queeranddisabled #PWDA #pridemarch #sexpositive

Shannon standing in a park, with a sign held in front of her that reads "I Get Horny Too" in blue text on a white background and a rainbow frame. Shannon has long, dark brown hair, a labret piercing, and is wearing a black fishnet top, black strappy bra, a rainbow-striped skirt, and a a black bondage collar with chain lead. She has a small rainbow tattoo on her cheek. The background of the image shows a park with trees, grass, and a white tent or canopy. Other people are visible in the distance, walking or standing around. The overall atmosphere suggests a casual, outdoor setting, for the event.

Shannon and the PWDA group participating in the pride march, holding a large rainbow flag and signs that read "Disability rights are human" and "PWD Australia". The group is standing on a dirt path, with palm trees and a cityscape visible in the background. The overall atmosphere of the image is one of celebration and activism, as the group gathers to show their support for disability rights and the LGBTQIA+ community.

The image depicts a vibrant scene at a pride event, featuring a diverse group of people gathered together.

Foreground: Shannon stands on the left side of the image. She is playfully biting her lip. On her right stands a man with tattoos on his arms, wearing a pink shirt and grey shorts. He is holding the bondage leash attached to the collar around Shannon’s neck.

Background: A large group of people, some of whom are taking pictures or videos with their phones. The atmosphere appears to be lively and celebratory, with flags and other decorations visible in the distance. A large marquee is partially visible in the background, suggesting that the event is being held outdoors.

Overall Impression: The image conveys a sense of joy and inclusivity, capturing the spirit of the pride event. The presence of a diverse group of people from different backgrounds and identities suggests that the event is promoting diversity and acceptance.

@tlwvision they were all incredible!

Some photos from Bunjil's Marroun Healing Ceremony on Monday. An Acknowledgement of History was delivered by Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Elder, Uncle Andrew Gardiner. The Smoking Ceremony was performed by Wurundjeri man, Daniel Ross. Key note speech delivered by Dr Aunty Jill Gallagher. Yidaki performance by Ganga Giri and live music by Pirritu and band.

Thanks again to Moonee Valley City Council, Mayor Rose Iser, and Helen Sui for bringing this poignant event to the community, for its 8th year. You should be proud of your continued effort to stand with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, on January 26.

This is your chance to jump into something truly electric — a project that's raw, real-time, and completely unafraid to go there.

I'm looking for two exceptional people to bring this vision to life (preferred as separate roles, though the absolute right person could potentially handle both):

• A killer video podcast/TV producer who lives for crafting intimate visuals and turning raw conversation into must-watch television
• A co-host ready to dive headfirst into the deep end with me

The subject? Wildly sensitive. Deliciously provocative. We're talking different relationship styles, sexuality, identity, and everything society usually whispers about — and we're going to talk about it loud, honest, and unfiltered.

This isn't scripted small talk. This is live-journal style storytelling. A deeply personal, unfolding journey, full of messy truths, raw vulnerability, jaw-dropping revelations, and real-time evolution. We're examining one authentic life story with unflinching intimacy.

Each episode clocks in around 24 minutes of pure intimacy and vulnerability that pulls audiences in and doesn't let go. We're starting with a tight run (maybe 6 eps to kick things off), but the potential here is massive.

If you're open-minded as hell, completely comfortable going deep into relationships + sexuality (sex is part of the landscape, not the sole focus), and you have experience in podcasting, video production, or hosting, this could be the most thrilling creative leap you take all year.

More details? Only for the brave ones who reach out. I’ll spill everything once we vibe-check in a quick convo.

This isn't just a gig. It's a front-row seat to something boundary-pushing, conversation-shifting, and potentially game-changing.

If your pulse is already racing... DM me right now.

Who's in? 🔥🎙️

#podcast #videopodcast #tvshow #callout #showcallout #podcastcallout #tvshowcallout

Super proud to be a part of this upcoming exhibition. I hope you can show your support by attending the opening gala next week.

#queerpride #lgbthistory #midsumma

https://creativebrimbank.com.au/brimbank-lgbtqia-history-exhibition-bowery?fbclid=IwY2xjawPWfdZleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFNREJqS1lET3prc2l6STRzc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHhY5z4ax__JmOaNm_dBQflUmDf60EDsMMsWiptk9ORAeIZmHg1QQwzG9Vqa-_aem_6r4-c8DeVGrTwv8rg9X_-Q

@Su_G thank you so much!!!

As 2025 draws to a close, I’ve been reflecting on this year. While doing the deep work of healing from years of suppressed trauma, abuse, and violence, so much was still possible. I’m truly amazed.
Here’s what I accomplished, with support from incredible people:

- Keynote speaker at Victoria’s first Disability Pride Flag raising

- ‘All In’ won Best New Program at the Antenna Awards

- First TV Journalist role on 'Laneway'

- Raised concerns about Thriving Kids program with MP on House Standing Committee

- Supported ‘Share Your Story’ project for survivors of Domestic & Family Violence

- Graduated Brimbank Council’s Environmental Leadership Program

- Advocated with Mayor Nick Reece for inclusive community TV funding

- Helped save Heritage Advisory Committee with Mayor Tachos

- Selected for Environment Victoria’s Winter Summit

- First expo stand for Brimbank Disability Advocacy & Support group

- Completed CMTO radio course and hosted first SynFM show

- Volunteered in Gardens for Wildlife program

- Co-designed AAA Play website for Reclink

- Exhibited film and poetry at 'Her Story' with Western Bulldogs FC

- Organised Clean Up Australia Day in Brimbank

- Joined Council’s Climate Forum & Climate Emergency strategy

- Advocated for sexual health resources for disabled women and LGBTQIA+ in West

- Wrote for 'The Westsider' and People with Disability Australia

- Raised disability evacuation concerns at Climate Adaptation Fair

- Organised outreach against petting farms in Brimbank

- Supported Sunshine, Keilor, Sydenham Historical Societies

- Continued campaign against Melbourne Airport third runway

- Pushed for disability access at Midsumma Pride March

- Attended Bunjil’s Marroun Healing Ceremony with Indigenous elders

- Wrote 1 short story, 4 poems, 1 song

And personally, I came out as a non-binary woman.

I wouldn’t have believed this was possible in January. Yet here it is. Proof we’re far more capable than we think.
Pausing to see your own achievements can be powerful.

What are you most proud of in 2025? Share below. I’d love to celebrate with you.

#Reflection #Resilience #Community #Growth

I’m heartbroken by what happened at Bondi today.
There are no words that feel adequate in moments like this — just deep sadness, shock, and care for everyone affected.

My thoughts are with the people who were harmed, those who witnessed it, and the families and communities now carrying this weight.

Please take care of yourselves and each other tonight. It’s okay to step away, to feel shaken, or to not know what to say 🤍

"Brimbank Disability Advocacy & Support manager Shannon Meilak said the annual report reveals “major gaps” for people with disability."

https://brimbanknorthwest.starweekly.com.au/news/major-gaps-in-report/

A few photos from this week's activities!

First up is the EV Westside catchup. A great networking opportunity for environmentalists in the West.

Next up, I visited Robertson's Homestead at yuluk baring park, with Brimbank City Council's Heritage Advisory Committee.

Finally, just a photo of the awesome Cactus Garden at yuluk baring.

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us on Friday night for the opening of Black and White – stories of the hearts reflected through diamonds here in my home city of Brimbank. This was the first time my work has ever been shown in Brimbank and sharing it at home meant the world to me.

This exhibition shares ten powerful stories of family violence recovery through photography and art. Every photo and brushstroke speaks of survival, vulnerability and hope. Spending time with each woman and witnessing her strength was a true privilege. As a survivor myself, this work is very close to my heart.

Special thank you to Councillors Victoria Borg, Kim Thien Truong, Lucy Nguyen and Joh Bauch for supporting this poignant exhibition. Huge thank you also to Richard, Brimbank City Council’s Visual and Public Art Senior Officer, for all your hard work in bringing it here.

The night also raised funds for Underneath My Umbrella, an organisation that lifts women up with compassion and heart, and I was excited to preview some pieces from their next project Silenced Witness – family violence through a child’s heart.

The exhibition is FREE and still open to the public. If you haven’t seen it yet, I’d love you to come. Details here:
https://brimbanknorthwest.starweekly.com.au/news/stories-of-family-violence-recovery-told-through-art/

Thank you again to everyone who came and to everyone who continues to care about these stories. You remind survivors that they are not alone. 💛

Thrilled to be part of this exhibition! ✨Join us tomorrow night for the Opening Gala and help make a difference. Every ticket supports the vital work of Underneath My Umbrella.

Your support changes lives! Get your tickets here 👇
https://events.humanitix.com/underneathmyumbrella-au/tickets

Learn more about the exhibition, below:
https://brimbanknorthwest.starweekly.com.au/news/stories-of-family-violence-recovery-told-through-art/

International Day of People with Disability is always a mix of pride and frustration for me.

On one hand, it’s a beautiful moment to celebrate disability pride, our culture, our communities, and the brilliance, resilience, and creativity disabled people bring to every corner of society. I love seeing us take up space, tell our stories, and be visible on our own terms.

But the day also highlights a glaring truth: without real action, it becomes a token gesture.

Every year, we see organisations and councils put out glossy posts and feel-good events — but when you look closer, the systemic barriers remain untouched. Accessibility issues go unaddressed. Disabled voices are sidelined. Our expertise is ignored. Real inclusion is replaced with PR.

And this year, Brimbank City Council is a perfect example.

Despite years of feedback, advocacy, and lived-experience voices calling for meaningful, respectful programming, the response continues to fall short. It’s hard to celebrate disability pride when the same institutions who post about us on December 3rd are the ones overlooking us the rest of the year.

If you want to honour disabled people, listen to us. Engage with us. Invest in accessibility. Treat us as experts in our own lives. Don’t just celebrate us — include us.

International Day of People with Disability should be powerful. It can be powerful.
But it only becomes meaningful when the pride on display comes with action behind it.

URGENT CALL: Your Voice on 'Thriving Kids'

I am meeting with a Federal Member of Parliament tomorrow on behalf of Brimbank Disability Advocacy and Support, to specifically discuss the proposed 'Thriving Kids' initiative and its potential impact on Autistic children, including the reported risk of removing some from the NDIS.

This is a crucial opportunity to ensure that any new system is built on real-world needs and lessons learned. I need to take your direct, lived experience into this high-level discussion.

To ensure all perspectives on disability support, past and future, are represented, I am seeking your input on the features and potential outcomes of different support models.

I am seeking two critical perspectives:

1. Autistic Adults: Reflecting on Pre-NDIS Support.

I need the lived experience of Autistic adults to understand the history of disability support in Australia. Thinking back to the period before the NDIS and its individualised funding model:

• Access & Availability: How did you access necessary supports (e.g., therapy, employment assistance, daily living support)? Were these supports reliable or fragmented?

• Choice & Control: What level of choice did you have over the supports you received, where you received them, and who provided them?

• The Funding Model: In what ways did the previous funding system (e.g., block-funded services, waitlists, state-run services) positively or negatively impact your ability to live a meaningful life?

2. Parents/Carers & Community: Concerns about 'Thriving Kids'

The proposed 'Thriving Kids' initiative aims to support Autistic children aged 8 and under with lower-to-moderate needs through mainstream services, operating outside the NDIS.
I am seeking balanced feedback by comparing the features of the current NDIS model with the proposed foundational model:

• Individualised Support vs. Streamlined Services: Does an individualised plan and budget (NDIS) better ensure a child receives the exact supports they need, OR would streamlined, community-based services ('Thriving Kids') lead to supports that are more timely and accessible?

• Service Quality & Choice: How important is the ability to choose and change providers to a child's progress? Do you believe a system that embeds funding within mainstream services would improve the consistency and quality of support, or restrict parental choice?

• Overall Impact: Based on your experience and understanding, do you believe the proposed shift will result in better outcomes for Autistic children and their families, or worse outcomes than the existing NDIS pathway?

How to Share: Please send me a direct message (DM) or leave a comment below with your feedback by midnight tonight. Alternatively, you may email brimbankdisability@gmail.com.
I will collate and present these perspectives tomorrow. Anonymity is guaranteed if requested. Your story matters.

Here is the unedited video we took, right after our win!

It has been over a week now since All In was announced as Best New Program at the Antenna Awards. As the excitement of the night settles, the true weight of this achievement is only now beginning to sink in.

We didn’t just take home a trophy; we took home a moment of pride, a moment of genuine recognition for a community that is so often unheard. This win stands as testament to our ongoing fight to be seen, to the determination that carries us through barriers and setbacks, and to the courage it takes to share our most personal and painful experiences with honesty and vulnerability. We do this not only to help non-disabled people better understand us, but to validate those who travel this path with us.

Representation is not a buzzword for us. It’s survival. It’s dignity. It’s the difference between being endlessly spoken about versus finally being heard. For marginalised disabled people who rarely see themselves reflected authentically, this recognition matters. It says; your stories are worthy, and the world needs what you bring. It honours the pride within our disability community, a pride that has been fought for and reclaimed over generations.

I want to express my heartfelt thanks to every single person involved in bringing this project to life — to the guests who bravely shared their stories, insights, and lived experiences, to the hosts and crew who poured their talent and heart into every moment. Special thanks to Eliza Hull, Attitude Foundation, and Powerd Media for making this show possible. And finally, to C31 Melbourne; thank you for welcoming us with open arms, for recognising the importance of authentic storytelling, and for supporting our community with genuine respect. None of this would have been possible without each of you, and what you have done for me and for so many others like me, means more than words can express.

To every person in our community who feels they are not “enough” in any way, this win is proof of your power, even in the moments you don’t feel it. To everyone who has ever felt invisible or underestimated — this award is for you. It’s for us.

#VisibilityMatters #EquityInMedia #BreakTheStigma