Irene's Story | More stories
Irene's Story
I have worked in this organisation (Scope) for 36 years in many and varied roles.
I am second-generation Australian-born Chinese. Family history plays a big part in my life. My paternal grandfather had four wives and 22 children. I am the second daughter of the first son of the fourth wife of Kwong Sue Duk, but that's another story!
Disabled from birth, diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at two-and-a-half, second youngest of seven children, I count myself extremely fortunate to have the power of speech and some intellect. I once asked my mum what her reaction was to the news of my disability. She replied, "We didn't know exactly what it meant. But you are our child, and it is up to us to care for you. So that's that."
Life for me is normal, knowing nothing else. I think I must have been a 'know it all' at a very early age, because dad called me "Professor". Even now, my brothers and sisters find nothing has changed. I was educated to Form Four post primary level, not a very good scholar. I know it's hard to believe for those who know me now, but I was painfully shy! Although, I appreciated my school years, being House Captain and head of the Debating Team.
At 18 I left school to work in the family restaurant over the next four years. There were no mainstream employment opportunities available.
Coming out of retirement at 23 to join the (then) Spastic Children's Society of Victoria in 1966, it was said I could contribute to the organisation and its people. I might say, I was extremely reluctant to take this step, but I am part of the fabric that is Scope today.
I am proud of my contribution and appreciative of the faith people have shown in my ability. My involvement:
- Served Two terms as the first employee of the (then) Spastic Society to be elected to its governing body, or "Council" 1982-85.
- Chairperson of the Employee Representative Committee ongoing - High Point Industries.
- Coordinated the combined Employee Representative Committee meetings.
- Workplace Trainer, Level 1
- Public speaking since 1968 on behalf of the organisation to internal and external groups
- MC of the Annual General Meeting
One of the unusual roles I've had is being in the stage production of "Golden Circle" as both Narrator and acting in the group.
But my biggest personal satisfaction is at last mastering the computer in my work at High Point Industries.
I have strong views on disability issues and the political scene in general, but don't believe in being radical. This in the longterm may see people with disabilities achieve their aims at the cost of being marginalised because of these actions, instead of being part of the mix of society who require just a little more tolerance and physical assistance to live productive lifestyles.
I like to believe I've learned from being a spectator of life soaking-up wisdom along the way, enhanced by natural curiosity.
Listening to the radio, looking at television and reading are among my hobbies. I love my food and am fortunate to have the mix of both Chinese and other cuisines. Sport is great, with four brothers I didn't have a choice? Essendon is a passion!
Irene Kwong
November 2002
