MEET Colin Archibald.
Mr Archibald is working closely with a locally-based steering group to help make Northam a more inviting and inclusive community for all local residents.
Mr Archibald works for WA based not-for-profit organisation, Inclusion WA.
Inclusion WA has been assisting the Northam community for the past two years and with its support, the Northam Inclusive Holiday Program was initiated.
The Northam Inclusive Holiday Program aims to increase access and opportunities to local sport and recreational clubs and aims to provide a wide range of meaningful activities for all residents, particularly those that are marginalised and at risk of being socially isolated.
"This program focuses on getting all of us more connected to the community we live in," Mr Archibald said.
"Being part of a club or group can change our lives for the better."
Mr Archibald grew up in London and has worked in several countries and has a wealth of experience.
He has also represented Great Britain and Australia in sport of inline hockey and through this Mr Archibald understands the importance of finding a valued role in the local community.
"Sport and recreation has always been my passion and I have personally benefited from a deep involvement in sport," Mr Archibald said.
"Without sport, my life would look significantly worse than it is now and being part of a sporting community has really changed my life for the better.
"I am thankful that Inclusion WA has given me the opportunity to follow a dream and I am thoroughly looking forward to assisting local clubs and groups here in Northam.
"Northam is such a great town and I would like to build on that and make it an even better community for all residents - I'd like Northam to be known as a vibrant, inclusive and welcoming community."
An average of 27 participants have attended the January sessions so far with numbers predicted to rise in the last week of the holidays.
"The program is open to all people, regardless of age, ability level and background," Mr Archibald said.
"Sport knows no boundaries and this is all about building one great community, inclusive of all."
More information can be obtained by emailing northaminclusive@gmail.com.
