February 17, 2026

Join us at the Easter Family Fun Festival: A day of inclusion, connection and celebration

Gateways’ Early Childhood and Specialist Services Manager Jayne sat down with BayFm’s Mil to chat all things Easter Family Fun Festival and a specific focus on Carers. 

On Sunday 29 March 2026, Gateways Support Services invites the community to come together for the much-loved Gateways Easter Family Fun Festival – a free, inclusive celebration designed especially for people with disability, their families, supporters and carers. 

Held at Norlane ARC (Northern Aquatic and Community Hub), the festival is a vibrant and welcoming event where fun, connection and inclusion take centre stage. 

 

What is the Easter Family Fun Festival all about? 

The Easter Family Fun Festival is a free community event created for the disability community and those who support them. It is an inclusive and accessible celebration filled with activities, entertainment and experiences for people of all abilities. 

The focus of the day is simple; to create a fun, welcoming environment where everyone of all abilities can participate and enjoy the experience together. Everyone can explore the festival at their own pace, without pressure or expectation. It is a space where accessibility is thoughtfully considered and where inclusion is not an afterthought, but the foundation. 

More than just a day of entertainment (and yes, there will certainly be Easter treats), the festival is about connection and joy. It is an opportunity for the broader community to come together, celebrate diversity and recognise the value of inclusion. 

 

A special focus on carers

This year, there is a strong and intentional focus on carers. 

Carers play an essential role in supporting people with disability, yet they often put their own needs last. Many experience barriers when attending mainstream community events, whether due to accessibility challenges, sensory considerations, or a lack of understanding from others.

The Gateways Easter Family Fun Festival has been designed with carers in mind. It offers a supportive, understanding and inclusive environment where Individuals can relax and participate at their own pace. There is no pressure to keep up, no expectations to meet – just a welcoming space to enjoy time together.

Importantly, the festival is also about recognising and celebrating carers for the vital role they play in our community. Providing dedicated support and opportunities for connection is one way we acknowledges the commitment, resilience and advocacy carers demonstrate every day. 

 

Dedicated carer supports on the day

Carers attending the festival will have access to a range of supports and connection opportunities.

Carer Zone 

A dedicated Carer Wellness Zone will operate throughout the day. While two formal Carer Connect information sessions will be held, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, carers also are welcome to drop in at any time. 

Carer Connect sessions will provide: 

• Up-to-date information about available supports and services 

• Practical tips and strategies for carers 

• Insights into programs within the local community 

The space is designed to be calm, accessible and welcoming. Gateways’ Strengthening Parents Coordinator, Gretta, will be available across the day to answer questions and provide guidance. Attendance at sessions is entirely optional, carers are free to participate as much or as little as they choose.

Peer support and connection

The festival also creates opportunities for carers to meet others who share similar experiences. Supportive group discussions will offer space to talk about challenges, celebrate successes and exchange practical strategies. 

For many carers, simply connecting with someone who understands can make a meaningful difference. 

Carers will have opportunities to: 

• Share experiences with others who understand 

• Discuss challenges and successes 

• Explore practical strategies in supportive group conversations 

• Build ongoing connections within the community 

 

Resource packs 

Comprehensive resource packs will be available, filled with information about local services, programs and supports. These packs are designed to help carers discover resources they may not have known existed, making it easier to navigate support systems beyond the festival. 

 

Why supporting carers matters 

Community events that are intentionally inclusive do more than provide entertainment. They remove barriers, build understanding and create environments where people feel seen and valued. 

Carers are the backbone of our community. When carers feel supported, informed and connected, families and communities thrive. For carers, having access to reliable information, peer support and a welcoming space to relax alongside their family and peers can reduce isolation and strengthen confidence. For the broader community, it is an opportunity to celebrate inclusion in action. 

The Gateways Easter Family Fun Festival reflects Gateways’ ongoing commitment to supporting not only people with disability, but also the families and carers who walk alongside them every day. 
 

Event Details

• Easter Family Fun Festival 

• Sunday 29 March 2026  

• Norlane ARC (Northern Aquatic and Community Hub) 

 

Tickets are free, however registration is essential.

Secure your tickets HERE and join us for a fun, inclusive day celebrating community, connection and Easter fun.

We look forward to welcoming you. You can listen to the full interview with Mil and Jayne below: