StepUP! 2022 Melbourne cancellation

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StepUP! 2022 Melbourne cancellation: a message from the DSV CEO

It feels incredibly disappointing to have to make this announcement on such a sunny day here in Melbourne. The grounds at Princes Park have held a lot of water after the rain Victoria has received in the past few weeks. After discussions with City of Melbourne and our external OH&S partner, it has been determined that any additional rain, such as what is forecast tomorrow and Saturday, will result in further deterioration of the grounds at Princes Park. This makes the event site inaccessible and unsafe for us to successfully set up and run our much-anticipated StepUP! event. The safety and enjoyment of our attendees, staff and vendors is of upmost importance to us and as a result I have come to the most unfortunate decision to cancel our StepUP! event. After waiting three years to be able to run this significant celebratory event with you all, to say we are shattered is putting it lightly!

I’d like to thank everyone who has created a team, fundraised, registered, and shared in the excitement leading up to this year’s event. I would also like to extend my gratitude to our wonderful business and community partners, vendors and volunteers who were so generously giving up their Sunday to make this year’s StepUP! the best celebration yet. DSV relies on the support of our community and we are incredibly grateful for your efforts. For those who have tickets for Sunday’s event, you can expect to hear from us early next week to offer you a refund.

Whilst incredibly disappointing to cancel StepUP! 2022, the recent weather events have created much more significant damage to lives and properties across Victoria. My thoughts are with all of those within flooded areas. To our impacted members: if you have not yet received a check in call from us at DSV, please reach out if you need assistance or someone to talk to. Through our connections we will continue to support you.

Bring on Family Fun Day, Sunday 19 March 2023!

Dan Payne 
CEO Down Syndrome Victoria

Did you know you can continue to participate in Down Syndrome Awareness Month by sharing the many posts and activities being undertaken by our community via the #21YourWay and #stepupfordownsyndrome hashtags on Facebook or Instagram?

If you have any questions, please reach out to DSV’s Events Coordinator, Vanessa at vanessai@dsav.asn.au or 9486 9600.