The Tom Cummins Stand: A Legacy of Accessibility and Community Impact
About Tom Cummins
Tom Cummins is a proud Shepparton local, having lived his entire life in this vibrant community. He attended Isobel Pearce Kindergarten, Orrvale Primary School, and was part of the final Year 12 class at Wanganui Park Secondary College. Tom furthered his education at GOTAFE and is now an active participant in the School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES) program at are-able, where he’s developing skills to pursue meaningful employment.
Tom is an avid supporter of the Hawthorn Hawks and a passionate follower of “The Road” (Congupna Football Club). Despite living with Pura Syndrome, a rare genetic condition affecting mobility and requiring the use of a wheelchair, Tom has made it his mission to advocate for accessibility and inclusion in his community.
Tom’s Journey with Pura Syndrome
With fewer than 600 people diagnosed globally, Pura Syndrome affects multiple body systems. For Tom, this means relying on a wheelchair for mobility. While he enjoyed outdoor activities like sit-skiing and horse riding in his youth, scoliosis and subsequent back surgery limited his physical activities. Tom’s personal experiences highlighted a need for better accessibility at outdoor events, where obstructed views often left him feeling excluded.
The Dream Behind the Tom Cummins Stand
Tom’s vision for an accessible viewing platform began during his participation in the Music, Arts, and Culture Committee (MACC) of the Greater Shepparton City Council. During a MACC meeting, Tom proposed the idea of hiring an elevated viewing platform for an event, but budget constraints prevented the idea from moving forward.
Undeterred, Tom turned this dream into a community-driven project, aiming to create a permanent accessible solution for Shepparton’s events. His goal? To ensure everyone, regardless of mobility, can enjoy community events with dignity and comfort.
Bringing the Project to Life
Tom’s determination, combined with the support of are-able and the local community, transformed his idea into reality. Over two years, Tom worked tirelessly to advocate for accessibility and inclusivity through his SLES sessions. Along the way, he partnered with local businesses, including Sibweld, whose team designed the trailer, and the Greater Shepparton City Council, who agreed to house and manage the stand for community use.
Features of the Tom Cummins Stand
- Elevated Platform: Provides an unobstructed view of events.
- Accessibility-Driven Design: Ramps, handrails, and a portable pathway ensure safe and easy access.
- Enhanced Amenities: Includes a marquee, portable chairs, and storage space.
- Visibility: The stand features signage to share Tom’s story and acknowledge sponsors.
- Safety Features: Emergency ramp and electric motorized jockey wheel for easy setup.
Funding and Community Support
Through advocacy and fundraising, $74,301.55 was raised to build the Tom Cummins Stand, reflecting the community’s commitment to inclusivity.
A Legacy for Shepparton
Once completed, the Tom Cummins Stand will be gifted to the Greater Shepparton City Council, becoming a valuable resource for events such as Carols by Candlelight, music festivals, sports games, and more. Managed by the Council’s Events Department, the stand will be available for hire with minimal costs to ensure accessibility remains a priority.
Celebrating the Launch
The official launch of the Tom Cummins Stand took place on: 📅 Friday, 13 December 2024 ⏰ 10:30 am – 2:30 pm 📍 Queens Gardens, Shepparton
The community came together to celebrate this milestone for accessibility and inclusivity. The day featured live music, performances, carnival activities, and the official ribbon-cutting ceremony at 12:00 pm.
Stay Connected
The Tom Cummins Stand is more than a structure—it’s a symbol of resilience, inclusion, and the power of community. Follow Tom’s journey and learn more about the stand by staying connected with us on social media.
For bookings or more information, contact the Greater Shepparton City Council Events Department.
Let’s celebrate this incredible achievement together!