Lights, camera - action! Channel 7’s Sunrise program visited Ryde’s TADNSW (Technical Aid to the Disabled) for a live cross on December 14th.

TADNSW was one of several charities chosen to receive a $50,000 grant for one of their “Unsung Heroes”, an initiative sponsored by Paul Newman’s Own Foundation. The Foundation, in conjunction with Sunrise, selected a variety of Australian charities to receive a share in $1 million.

The crew from Sunrise came to meet TAD’s “Unsung Hero” - long-time volunteer Bill Jenkins, who was nominated for his dedication and generous support to TAD over the years.

Sunrise presenter Simon Reeve with TAD client Abby Matthews and our "Unsung Hero" Bill Jenkins.

For the last 12 years, Bill has designed new and innovative aids for adults and children with disabilities. He is responsible for adapting a huge range of everyday use items including walking frames, chairs, motor scooters, pushbikes, access ramps, shower rails, wheel chair modifications and bed adjustments.  He also makes time to attend regular seminars and share his invaluable knowledge with others.

TAD’s Development Manager Geoff Prenter said TAD could always rely on Bill to complete his projects ahead of time especially when it’s a pushbike alteration. 

“Bill is definitely one of life’s unsung heroes. He is personally responsible for adapting over 40 pushbikes for the disabled and no request we make for assistance is ever too much trouble,” said Geoff.

“He reckons his reward is seeing the joy on the children’s faces when they manage to ride one of his bikes on their own for the very first time.”

The money will be used to extend the FREEDOM WHEELS® Modified Bike Service now offered by TADNSW and eventually throughout Australia.

The Sunrise segment was also one of the last events held at the Ryde Royal Rehabilitation Centre site before TADNSW moved to Northmead in early January. After more than 30 years housed in the grounds of Ryde’s RRCS, TAD has found a new home to cope with the growing demand for TAD’s services. TAD’s new address is Unit 10, 185 Briens Road, Northmead 2152 and is still contactable on 1300 663 243.

To watch the video, follow this link. It may take a little while to load on slower internet connections.