Often things don’t go to plan, and big changes can happen. Michael’s story shows us that even with significant, life-altering events, after time and the right support, life can and will keep moving forward, even expanding in new and unexpected ways.
When Michael became a paraplegic, he knew his life would shift. What he didn’t expect was how full, busy, and connected it would remain.
“I’ve always been a busy person. It’s a different life now, but it has not slowed down a single bit,” he says.
After six months in hospital and rehabilitation, Michael returned home ready to stay active and connected. A former high school teacher turned motorcycle enthusiast and mechanic; he continued working on Moto Guzzi bikes, and two years ago was handed the business by its owner.
Today, Michael manages both the workshop and his family’s sixth-generation farm, running sheep across 850 acres alongside family and workers.
Michael and his best buddy, Bindi on his family farm.
For Michael staying active has always been about more than fitness; it’s about belonging.
“Putting yourself out there is the hardest part,” he says. “I felt uncomfortable at first — being disabled around people who’d known me before the accident. But you’ve got to allow yourself to be seen. Being out in the community shows people what inclusion really looks like.”
Michael thrilled to meet Todd Woodbridge sharing a feel-good love-all moment.
Soon after his injury, Michael connected with Wellways through the iCare program for practical support. What mattered most to him wasn’t the assistance itself – it was how removing barriers gave him the opportunity and independence to keep doing what he loves.
“It’s not that I can’t do things — it’s the energy it takes,” he explains. “Having someone with me means I can focus on my life: working, playing sport, seeing family, being part of my community”.
Sport quickly became a pathway to connection. After trying adaptive tennis and wheelchair rugby league, Michael discovered lawn bowls. It opened up a new community, and with it, new opportunities. With support from the Wellways iCare team, Michael’s represented the ACT at para-nationals in Queensland and Tasmania and recently won the ACT Rookie Singles in an able-bodied competition.
“I like challenging myself. I’ve always needed something to push toward. Bowls has opened up a whole new community for me.”
That commitment to community was front and centre earlier this year when Michael travelled to Sri Lanka for his son’s wedding. His support worker, Kim, travelled with him to help navigate airports, accessibility barriers, and the unfamiliar environment so Michael could focus on what mattered: being present for a moment no parent wants to miss.
“Overcoming the obstacles to get there was huge. But I couldn’t imagine missing my son’s wedding. Being there for that moment meant everything to me,” he says. “He’s a good kid who deserves good things. I am very proud of him.”
Michael soaking in the joy of being at as his son’s wedding ceremony on Mount Lavinia Beach, Sri Lanka.
Michael’s story shows that disability doesn’t limit participation, goals, or joy. What limits people are the barriers around them. His experience is one of many that demonstrates what becomes possible when those barriers are removed, and people are supported to live the life they choose. Michael’s story is one of many that shows what is possible when society removes barriers, and people are supported to live the life they choose.
Inclusion isn’t a concept, and it shouldn’t be optional. It needs to be something felt and experienced in everyday moments: joining a sports club, travelling overseas to a loved one’s wedding, running a business or simply being part of a community.
“Advocacy isn’t always loud,” he says. “Sometimes it’s as simple as saying, ‘Hey, we need a ramp here,’ or pointing out when a street isn’t accessible. There are so many opportunities out there. You’ve just got to get involved.”
As we mark International Day of People with Disability, Michael’s message is clear: when communities are accessible, connected, and inclusive, everyone thrives.