Community
1 October, 2025
Don’t ignore the deaf
THE local deaf community has highlighted its challenges at a gathering to mark National Week of Deaf People 2025.
An afternoon of celebration, connection and inclusivity drew 36 attendees on the Cairns Esplanade, with young people, families and seniors all taking part.
A barbecue sausage sizzle, provided by the Rotary Club, kept everyone well-fed while a range of activities, from bookmark colouring and face painting to Auslan games, catered to all ages.
Deaf Connect community engagement coordinator Callie Rigby said it was heartening to see so many people come together to celebrate deaf culture.
“It was fantastic to see so many people gather for an afternoon that celebrated deaf culture, Auslan and community,” she said.
This year’s National Week of Deaf People is centred on “Deaf Space,” highlighting the importance of inclusive environments designed with deaf, deafblind and hard-of-hearing people in mind.
The Cairns gathering captured the spirit of the week, shining a light on the need for accessibility in everyday spaces, from classrooms and workplaces to cafés and community hubs.
