Inclusion in full voice at All Abilities Talent Show

By Owen Sinclair

Dec 10, 2024

The Cobram Community House Tuesday Group, pictured here covering ABBA’s ‘Dancing Queen’, was one of the first groups to perform. Photo by Owen Sinclair

Inside the Cobram Civic Centre, a buzz of excitement hovered over the assembled crowd. In the front few rows of seating, performers in their razzle-dazzle finery whispered to one another in muted voices.

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Moira Shire Council chair administrator Graeme Emonson welcomed the crowd, before Cobram Community House manager Christine Osborne took to the stage to welcome the first act.

A moment later, a hush fell over the audience.

And finally, after a year of waiting, the first act took to the microphone on Friday, December 6, to open the 2024 All Abilities Talent Show.

Georgie Tomlin, who spearheaded last year’s inaugural event and performed a cover of Christina Aquilera’s Fighter, said every single performance was exciting to watch.

Ms Tomlin with her brother, Jeffrey, and their mum Melanie. Photo: Lyn Miller. Photo by Contributed

“I think it went fantastic,” she said.

“I don’t think it could have gone any better.

“The most enjoyable part was at the end, when we all got up and sang as a group.

“It was my favourite [part] because we all worked together; it was almost like a big family, and we were all just together having a good time.”

The Cobram & District Specialist School Band, led by Xavier North, warmed the audience up with a few select crowd favourites. Photo by Owen Sinclair

Moira Shire Council Chair Administrator Dr Graeme Emonson said the event was an inspiring display of creativity, talent and enthusiasm from so many wonderful performers with such a diverse range of skills.

“There was no shortage of encouragement, applause and celebration from fellow performers and attendees, demonstrating a true sense of inclusion for all,” Dr Emonson said.

“The response from the community and attendees has been tremendous and shows the importance of continuing to acknowledge those with lived experience of disability, their families, carers, friends, services and other supports to ensure everyone across Moira Shire has equal opportunity to participate in events that celebrate their skills and passions.

Moira Shire Council community development officers Danni Whinray and Tamara Eldridge with NCN Health communications coordinator Marissa Daly (centre) assisted guests arriving at the centre. Photo by Owen Sinclair

“This year we saw 27 performers take to the stage with more than 200 attendees entertained with group performances, a magic show and even an original song, concluding with a finale number where all performers returned to the stage.”

Rebecca Hayne and Molly McLeod of Odesi Collective Coffee Van. Photo by Owen Sinclair

Dr Emonson said the All-Abilities Advisory Committee is already planning for the 2025 Talent Show, and invites anyone interested in getting involved next year to contact the Moira Community Wellbeing Team on 5871 9222.