A number of Gunnedah youth gathered to learn about photography from Gunnedah Community College coordinator and Blackjack Camera Club member Nicolette Bronkhorst. A number of other club members also assisted.

Young Access is an avenue for youth with disabilities to explore new hobbies through a number of short courses organised by the college. Supported by Gunnedah Shire Council and Gunnedah GoCo, it is a new group for ages 15 and up.

The concept was born when Gunnedah resident Michelle Collins spoke to Mrs Bronkhorst about the difficulty of finding activities for her autistic son Ryley. The first two workshops have focused on photography.

“I figured it’s the easiest way to start with photography because it’s the easiest medium and it’s an easy way people can express themselves,” Mrs Bronkhorst said.

“We started the day by exploring colour and then we went and found shapes in things.

“Just that the little things make the big picture.”

Mrs Bronkhorst said there was a “really good” response from those who attended and she was thankful to the wildlife park for giving the group free access.

“We had an absolute blast,” she said.

“The carers were really happy.”

The coordinator said the carers thanked her for getting the group started.

“One of the ladies I spoke to mentioned that it’s a great opportunity for her daughter to gain a bit of independence.

“Being in a social environment where they can feel safe and experience things, makes it amazing for her because she wants her daughter to experience life and actually be able to do things and not be restricted by the fact that she has disabilities.

“Having a group like this in Gunnedah fills that niche.

“There was definitely room for this to happen.”

More workshops are planned for November 5, 12 and 19, with youth to work together using different mediums to build and decorate giant jigsaw cubes.

Participants will have the opportunity to decorate their own placemat and coaster in a mosaic design on November 26, and December 3 and 10.

An exhibition to showcase the works created over the term will be held on December 3 at the Creative Arts Gallery to coincide with the International Day of Disabilities.

Each unit will cost $20. For more information, phone 6742 5630.