In Plain Sight

Patrick Gunasekera is a creator, performer and producer working across theatre, dance, music and writing. His art is driven by a heartfelt interest in change. The stories he creates often explore how systems of oppression are normalised by everyday people and what agency and power looks like from a marginalised perspective.

This interview profiles Patrick and his approach to his work as well as highlights the show he will premiere in November – a ballet adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s short story The Little Mermaid, from a queer, brown, disabled point of view.

To find out more about the show and to purchase tickets, go to The Blue Room Theatre website.

Support this project's independent fundraiser here.

Search for 'Patrick Gunasekera' on Humanitix to find more of the events he's offering.

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This week Simon and Abby speak to Melanie Hawkes - writer, advocate, and West Australian Director for Physical Disability Australia. Melanie is also a member of the Society of Women Writers WA and recent winner of the prestigious Jennifer Burbidge Short Story Award.

A strong advocate and bold communicator, Melanie shares her passion for self-exploration and creativity in a fun, engaging conversation.

You can read Melanie's award-winning story here.

Find out more about the Society of Women Writers WA and their upcoming events on their website.

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In this episode, we speak with Maddison Malins, a Year 12 student and Vision Australia Radio volunteer.

Blind since age 11, Maddie is studying media and building skills in radio and podcasting.

She talks about her path so far; including her involvement in the show "Happy Pants," her passion for music, and plans for life after school. A thoughtful profile of a young storyteller making her mark.

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This week, Simon chats to William Morgan, who's passionate about singing and sound production. Williams sings int he Perth pride Choir and the Humdrum Choir, which he also helps organise. William is a caring, vibrant member of the Perth disability community and in this uplifting discussion he shares openly about all that music and the choir communities bring to his life.

Find out more about the Perth Pride Choir including their upcoming performances on their website.

Find out more about the Humdrum Choir on their Facebook page.

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This week Simon and Andrew take a moment to reflect by revisiting past conversations with four different guests who struck a chord with Simon for their leadership and advocacy work.

You'll hear from Nihal Iscel, WA Women’s Hall of Fame inductee for her advocacy work, about how she strives to bring people together to create community, and how resilience is an essential ingredient in becoming a leader yourself.

Linda de Rozario shares her personal experiences within the Deaf community and with Auslan, offering insightful reflections on the importance of connection, accessibility, and equality.

Lisa Burnette speaks about her experience with volunteering and all it's brought to her life and the lives of others, and shares her story of becoming a double amputee at 24 as a result of Meningococcal septicaemia. Lisa is the author of the book Learning to Walk, which you can find out more about here: lisaburnette.com.au 

Finally, you'll hear from Ben Rowe, Executive Officer at Blind Sports WA and big advocate for building inclusion in the community. Ben played Goalball for Australia. Find out more about the work of Blind Sports WA here: blindsportswa.com.au 

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When it comes to digital accessibility, this week's guest is both passionate and knowledgeable. Dr Scott Hollier is the CEO and co-founder of Centre For Accessibility Australia (CFAA), and chatted to Simon about what's new and emerging in the technology spaces that can be of assistance to people with a disability.

CFAA is calling for nominations for the Australian Access Awards, which celebrate organisations and individuals demonstrating outstanding commitment to digital accessibility - recognising excellence across websites, applications, and advocacy initiatives. Categories span a wide range of sectors, including government, education, corporate, and not-for-profit.

To nominate an organisation or an individual, you can complete the form here on the CFAA website.

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Meet Maxine Drake: a powerful voice for inclusion and human rights.

As an advocate with Developmental Disability WA, Maxine stands up for students with disabilities and brings passion, heart, and action to the disability movement.

In this thought-provoking chat, Simon and Maxine explore advocacy, pride, dignity, and what it really takes to create an accessible world where everyone belongs. Acknowledging that sometimes activism is needed to make change happen; social change is easier when we bring people together and are there beside them.

Find out more about the work of Developmental Disability WA by visiting their website: ddwa.org.au

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This week on In Plain Sight, we revisit a fabulous conversation from the beginning of our program's journey with the very talented Eliza Hull, musical artist, writer, journalist, and disability advocate based in Victoria. They have a fascinating chat in which Eliza openly shares insights about her struggles and successes.

Be sure to connect with Eliza through her website or Facebook page. You can view the video clip spoken about during the interview for 'Running Underwater' on YouTube. Plus, you can find out more about Eliza's books here on her publisher's website. Be sure to look out for her future book releases.

Thanks to Andrew Williams, who is standing in as Simon's co-host and producer in Abby Green's absence.

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Deafblind Awareness Week (the last week of June) honours Helen Keller’s birthday and shines a light on the Deafblind community. To mark the occasion, Deafblind West Australians have a special event celebrating connection, creativity, and advocacy.

This week on our podcast, meet Deborah Kazich, Deafblind advocate sharing her vibrant, active life, and Linni Oliver, a dedicated Communication Guide.

Deb has many interests including public speaking training with Toast Masters, and she never misses an opportunity to share her passion for her community and to help bring awareness of people living with Deafblindness.

• Event Details:
• Tuesday 24 June 2025
• Perth City Farm
• Activities: DBWA will unveil a new tactile art piece, alongside the 2023 community mosaic
• Inspiring stories, sensory art, and community connection

Be part of this powerful celebration! If you can't attend on the day, head down to Perth City Farm anytime to experience the artwork installation.

More information about Deafblind West Australians can be found on their website.

Support Vision Australia Radio: https://www.visionaustralia.org/donate

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In the lead-up to International Albinism Awareness Day on June 13th, we speak with Karin Boulton, a third-year physiotherapy student, disability advocate, and member of the Albinism Fellowship of Australia. Karin shares her lived experiences with albinism and her role in creating spaces for community, support, connection, and leadership as a founding member of Emerging Voices of Young Leaders (EVYL). Tune in to learn about the ongoing efforts to raise awareness and foster a stronger, more connected albinism community.

Link to Albinism Fellowship of Australia (AFA): https://albinismaustralia.org 

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