Every year, Beford proudly recognises International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD), a global event that encourages greater awareness, understanding and inclusion for people living with disability. This day holds special meaning within our organisation because it allows us to celebrate the achievements, strengths and contributions of our clients and staff across all sites. For our community, it is more than a date on the calendar. It is a moment to pause, reflect and honour the people who make Bedford a vibrant, supportive and inclusive place.
Honouring Years of Service
A major highlight of our annual celebrations is the presentation of our Years of Service Awards. These awards recognise the dedication, loyalty and hard work of individuals who have been part of the Bedford community for many years. Each milestone reflects a genuine commitment to our shared purpose and the values we uphold.
Whether someone has contributed five years or more than forty years of service, each award tells a story of perseverance, growth and meaningful impact. Our long-term team members help shape the organisation through their passion, reliability and the relationships they form across the years.
Celebrations Across the State
Celebrations were held across all our sites, from Panorama to Pooraka and beyond, to our regional hubs throughout South Australia. Every site took the opportunity to recognise the remarkable service milestones achieved within their own communities.
Although the celebrations looked different at each site, the shared feeling of pride, gratitude and belonging could be felt everywhere.
Activities that Brought People Together
Across all hubs, the day was filled with creativity, energy and plenty of shared laughter. To mark this important occasion, we organised a range of activities designed to bring people together and encourage participation from both clients and staff.
Karaoke sessions gave many the chance to sing, perform and enjoy a supportive crowd. Motorcycle displays brought excitement and sparked conversations between enthusiasts who enjoyed discussing engines, models and restoration projects. Several hubs ran “Guess the baby” competitions, which were a source of great fun as everyone tried to identify colleagues from their childhood photos.
Creative activities were also a big hit. Hair braiding stations offered a chance for personal expression, while t-shirt tie-dying provided colourful moments and lasting keepsakes. One of the standout highlights of the day was a ukulele group performance, which filled the space with music and brought people together in a warm and uplifting way.
These activities spoke to the heart of Bedford’s culture. They were designed not only to entertain, but to create opportunities for connection, confidence building and shared enjoyment. The wide range of activities ensured everyone could participate in a way that felt comfortable, enjoyable and meaningful.
Recognising Award Recipients
This year, we proudly recognised 117 employees and staff for their years of service. Each award recipient has played an important role in shaping the supportive and welcoming environment that defines Bedford. Their commitment and contribution strengthen our community and support our mission to create opportunities for people of all abilities.
Long-term team members bring consistency and a deep sense of belonging to the organisation. They help nurture new colleagues, maintain our values and contribute to the positive workplace culture that makes Bedford feel like a community rather than simply a workplace.
Congratulations and Thank You!
We extend our warmest congratulations to each of our award recipients. Your dedication, reliability and positive spirit are deeply appreciated. We also offer our sincere thanks to everyone who joined us for this year’s celebrations. Your support and enthusiasm helped make International Day of People with Disability a meaningful, inclusive and memorable experience for all.
As we look ahead to another year, we carry forward the sense of connection and pride that this occasion represents. Our community remains committed to jobs, opportunities and pathways for people with disability, celebrating their achievements and continuing to build a workplace where everyone feels valued and included.
📸 You can find our photo album on Facebook here:
IDPwD 2025