Sharks game day staff came together last week for a two-hour session in Auslan, a language created by and for people who are Deaf and Hearing Impaired.
Conducted by Isabella Cole from the St George & Sutherland Community College, the Auslan training aimed at creating a more inclusive club where the Deaf community can feel welcome, while providing staff with an opportunity for professional development.
As explained by Emma Tonegato and Jada Taylor from the Sharks Have Heart community team, the course went a long way towards increasing confidence within the Sharks game day staff who regularly interact with members of the general public, including individuals that are deaf or hard of hearing.
"It was an amazing experience learning Auslan from Isabella and to learn not only how to finger spell but also how to communicate specific words related to our club and game day," Tonegato said.
While Taylor added; "It was a really great experience as now I feel more confident with Auslan. I feel as though with this knowledge I can now be more inclusive and welcoming."
A visual form of communication that uses hand, arm, body and facial movement to convey meaning, the training course enhanced the communication skills of all in attendance, with the group learning exactly what Auslan is, how it works, along with techniques to identify deaf and hard of hearing people.
Finger spelling and basic words in Auslan, targeting basic and useful signs in an NRL setting, as well as other communication methods and mindfulness in the Deaf Community, were covered off on the day.
The special course was initiated when members of the game day team requested further training after reporting they had experienced difficulty when engaging with people that converse in Auslan.
Ms Cole conducted the course on behalf of the community college without charge.
For those interested in finding out more or attending an Auslan training course – CLICK HERE
