Celebration of 2025: Our Outback Stories
a night of storytelling, impact and community across the Central West
Longreach | 21 November 2025
We were honoured to recognise Jacques, Daisy and Adam for their courage and contribution to the stories.
Guests then heard a reflection on “The Year That Was” — highlighting the impact OIL has created across all seven LGAs, including more than 100 individuals supported this year through navigation, crisis support, early years pathways, peer networks and capacity building.
We also heard from QDN Emerging Leader, Breanna Atkinson, who shared her lived experience and leadership journey with strength and confidence.
A highlight of the evening was a moving keynote from Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM, whose words on inclusion, self-advocacy and resilience left not a dry eye in the room.
The night concluded with an inspiring speech from OIL Board Member, David Wyllie, who brought warmth, humour and connection to the entire room.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who travelled, supported, spoke, contributed, partnered, and celebrated with us. This event reflects the strength and heart of our region, and the belief that people with disability belong and thrive in the Outback - The OIL Team
“A night of inspirational stories and successes from the outback.” - Cr Andrew Watts
On Friday 21 November 2025, Outback Independent Living hosted a very special celebration at the Qantas Founders Museum in Longreach, bringing together community members, families, people with disability, service providers, councils, health partners, and supporters from across the Central West.
Over 50 people gathered to recognise the year that was, celebrate our region, and honour the stories, strengths and achievements of people with disability living in the Outback.
Watch the Video capturing the evening below — Real stories. Real people. Real impact.
A Night of Connection and Community
The night opened with a beautiful Acknowledgment of Country by Daisy, followed by welcome drinks and the premiere of our new storytelling series, Living the Best Life in the Bush. This series showcases the resilience, creativity and independence of local people living with disability, and is the heart of the work we do.
Keynote Speaker:
Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM
Dr Dinesh is a doctor, lawyer, researcher, and one of Australia’s leading disability advocates.
He became Queensland’s first quadriplegic medical intern, and only the second person in the country with quadriplegia to graduate from medical school.
Since then, he has gone on to shape national conversations about inclusion in health, education and employment, and was recognised as the Queensland Australian of the Year in 2021 for his leadership and advocacy.
His story is one of determination, resilience, and refusing to let systems define what is possible.