Wayne Maitland
Cairns Peer Support Group
Why did you join QDN?
I want to make a difference . I wanted to have an impact and use my previous work and life experience to help others speak out and make a difference. QDN enables me to do just that around the issues that impact people with disability.
What has been good about becoming part of the group?
Being part of something bigger, friendship, being out in the community and being able to communicate with others and share issues or ideas on how to make a difference. I like to bring a regional voice to QDN and the particular issues that we have and being part of a larger group helps me do that.
What has been one of the groups achievements?
Being able to connect with people from all over Cairns even those who live remotely through the use of Zoom. Personally, I think the Election Forum with Bill Shorten was an amazing achievement.
What skills/knowledge has it given you?
I've gained leadership skills to help me achieve my goals towards equality and fairness and I have become an expert at Zoom now.
What would you say to others thinking of joining?
The more we become, the stronger become. Our voice become louder and our issues are heard. You will be part of a large supportive network of people.
Tell us something about you?
I enjoy being an active community member and spending my time outdoors in the perfect North Queensland weather!
What are your interests and hobbies?
My great grandchildren aged six and two keep me pretty busy and anything to do with disability.
QDN's Peer Support Groups
If you are looking for a place to connect, meet new people and find out about topics that matter to you, come along to one of QDN’s Peer Support Groups which are run by people with disability, for people with disability.