I began my journey in the disability sector influenced by my older sister, who has Down syndrome. Growing up in Lilydale, a small town near Launceston, I was surrounded by people with disabilities, and my sister was treated like anyone else, with the same expectations. I became a support worker at 18 in 1992, during the Community Integration Project, aimed at moving individuals from Willow Court, an institution in Hobart, into the community.
Starting in the sector, I was surprised by the broader community's lack of acceptance for people with disabilities to participate fully in everyday life. This experience motivated me to stay in the sector and help change these perceptions.
My journey in the disability sector has been diverse and rewarding, and I feel there’s still much to achieve. I have four children who have also chosen to work in this field, and I take pride in how accepting and inclusive they are of people with disabilities.
I lead an active lifestyle, enjoying regular runs, beach outings, cooking (my happy place), and exploring new adventures. I’ve always had a passion for motorsport and boating, even racing go-karts for a time.
I joined Eskleigh in May 2022, taking on various roles since then. Despite the challenges in ensuring its sustainability, I’ve enjoyed my time here and look forward to continuing my work in a different capacity. My commitment remains to drive quality services that enable people with disabilities and young individuals to lead rich, fulfilling lives. You can find out more about Amanda by visiting our ‘About Us’ page on the website.
