Celebrating 40 Years of the Waverley Community Living Program

On Monday, 1 December, Waverley Council, along with friends, family, and our wonderful program participants, celebrated the 40^th birthday of the Waverley Community Living Program (WCLP). The occasion coincided perfectly with the International Day of People with Disability (3 December), creating meaningful moments throughout the week to honour inclusion, leadership and the strength of a connected community.

For four decades, WCLP has supported adults with intellectual disabilities to live independently, build confidence, strengthen social connections, and thrive. Monday’s celebration paid tribute to the people who make the program what it is: the participants, whose achievements, resilience and stories have shaped the program’s legacy since its beginnings in 1984.

The evening brought together current participants, families, friends, former and current staff, councillors and supporters for a warm and joyful event. But the heart of the night truly belonged to the participants themselves. View a wrap-up of our event here.

A standout moment was the premiere of Our Place, a short film created by the Living the Dream group in collaboration with one of WCLP’s founding members. The film beautifully captured the places, routines and moments that represent independence, growth and belonging for the people at the centre of the program. Following the screening, an engaging Q&A panel brought humour, insight and lived experience to the forefront, offering guests a deeper look into the creative process and the meaning behind the film. Watch the full version of Our Place here.

As the formalities wrapped up, the celebration continued with music, food and plenty of laughter. Participants and their families mingled with staff and community members, sharing memories, reconnecting and reflecting on just how far the program has come. The lively after-party capped off an evening filled with pride, connection, and gratitude.

Forty years on, WCLP remains a vital pillar in the Waverley community, being a program built on partnership, respect and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to live a full and independent life. Monday’s celebration was not just a look back at the program’s history, but a recognition of the bright future ahead.

Here’s to the next chapter of the Waverley Community Living Program — one that continues to champion inclusion, empower individuals and strengthen the community for many years to come.

For more information about the program, visit our Waverley Community Living Program page.