Over 74 exhibitors, 11 workshops, an art exhibition and craft area filled Sydney’s Carriageworks for the expo. Organised by Spinal Cord Injuries Australia, the bi-annual expo attracted 1000 visitors over two days. Feedback from exhibitors who spoke to F2L, were generally happy with the event. Dom Powney from DRP International Healthcare said the company’s new Rotation Freedom bed generated a lot of interest from end users, particularly on Saturday which was the busiest day. Another exhibitor, Paul Crake from Total Ability said there was a positive response to the new VW Transporter driving solution for wheelchairs that the company launched at the expo.
Among the new products on display was the SpeediCath Compact Set from Coloplast, an all-in-one catheter and bag. With up to 70 per cent of wheelchair users having to stay in their wheelchair to catheterise, this compact device that can be kept in a pocket or handbag, is a simple option. It comes with an integrated and sterile bag and is designed for non-touch insertion, in both male and female sets. Another exhibitor, Auto PME Conversions celebrating over 25 years in auto conversions, is helping to make it easier for people with disability to enjoy an independent and inclusive life. The company takes modifications to new heights, whether travelling on land or on the water. Permobil had one of the biggest displays showing its latest range of wheelchairs and also presented an interactive workshop on the latest techniques and technologies for wheelchair users. Car sharing service, GoGet, that recently introduced the first car sharing service to accommodate people with disability, was another busy booth with visitors keen to find out more about the new offering which was launched with the support of SCIA. (See news story this issue).