Photograph of Donald Hughan, Chair of WaterAble organising committee
Goulburn-Murray Water’s (GMW) Donald Hughan (pictured) is leading the way when it comes to breaking down barriers for people with disabilities.
Just over a year after being elected deputy chair of the organising committee for WaterAble, a network for people with disability and their allies in the Victorian water industry, Donald has been named chair.
“I feel proud to be able to chair a group that advocates for disability inclusion in the water industry,” he said.
The 33-year-old from Rochester knows more than most when it comes to living with a disability.
Donald was born with spina bifida, which has caused him to be wheelchair bound as he is paralysed from the waist down.
“I face challenges every day but I don’t let that stop me,” he said.
“For me, joining WaterAble is about supporting and encouraging people with disability to be the best they can be and not allowing any barriers get in way of them doing things that they want to do.”
Donald certainly hasn’t.
He has been with GMW for 15 years, starting as a trainee and now works as a business support officer.
GMW support people with a disability by providing a flexible working environment
“It’s just about working out the best possible way of doing a certain task or activity, and not allowing any barriers to stand in your way.”
Donald has been a volunteer with the Rochester unit of the SES since 2015, and became deputy chair of WaterAble on September 10 last year.
His role has involved assisting the chair, attending meetings, speaking at events and contributing to the celebration of days such as the International Day for People with Disability and VicWater Connect conference.
“We have engaged with water industry leaders specifically to help raise awareness and increase focus on disability inclusion in the industry,” he said.
Earlier this month, WaterAble held its first AGM where members heard about GMW launching its own All-Abilities network (an employee-led disability inclusion network) during the year.
"Melbourne Water led the way on this and we’re excited to see some other organisations creating their own networks too,” Donald said.
“It’s important to advocate for and support the needs of people with a disability so they feel confident to raise any issues or concerns they may have.
“As chair, I’d like to keep on raising awareness of WaterAble and encourage water corporations to embrace disability inclusiveness and show them what people with disabilities can do.”
All 18 water corporations from the Victoria water industry have partnered with WaterAble, which has 34 members and growing. More information about WaterAble can be found at www.waterable.com.au