Technology for Ageing and Disability SA (TADSA) has proudly delivered personalised assistive technology solutions to South Australians living with disability for 48 years. It is my privilege to present this year’s Annual Report—reflecting a year of innovation and collective achievement made possible by the dedication of many.

I extend my sincere appreciation to my fellow Board Members for their unwavering positivity and active engagement throughout the year. Your thoughtful contributions have fostered a collaborative spirit and strategic focus that underpin effective decision making and propels our work forward.

This year, we farewell Damian Del Campo, who retires after a decade of dedicated service. Since joining TADSA in 2016, Damian has played a pivotal role in modernising our IT infrastructure and information systems. We thank him sincerely and wish him every success in his future endeavours.

We also warmly welcome Robin Yang to the Board. Robin brings a rich blend of experience as an educator, researcher, business consultant, product manager, customer engineer, and corporate trainer. His diverse expertise will strengthen our governance and strategic direction, and we look forward to the fresh ideas he will contribute.

With a full complement of Board Members and the successful recruitment of 11 new technical volunteers during FY25, TADSA is positioned well to meet future challenges and seize new opportunities that advance our mission.

I am pleased to report improved revenue growth this year, enabling us to extend our impact and support the lives of even more South Australians living with disability.

Our vision remains clear: delivering personalised outcomes that restore independence, enable participation, and positively change lives. This success is wholly due to the collective efforts of all TADSA’s people—our staff, board members, and volunteers—and I express my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you.

TADSA is far more than a provider of one-off projects; it is a vibrant, community powered movement. Our volunteers find purpose in sharing knowledge and fostering innovation through practical problem-solving. Together, we empower people with disabilities not only by supporting them but by enabling them to live as fully and independently as possible.

If the strength of an organisation is measured by its community support, TADSA is in excellent shape. We continue to build strong relationships with referrers, businesses, philanthropic organisations, politicians, and the public. This support shines through in our fundraising efforts, successful grant submissions, and inclusive events.

We thrive on challenges—and have responded positively to the evolving policy and funding landscape since the inception of the NDIS and ongoing changes in aged care. Yet one challenge remains constant: attracting and retaining a skilled pool of technical volunteers and securing the financial resources needed to support our operations.

What holds us together are our shared values: putting individuals with disabilities and their families first and demonstrating inclusiveness through progressive actions rooted in empathy and respect. Together, we support each other and those we serve.

Mission Accomplished!
Neil Pokoney
Board Chair

Board Biographies

Technology for Ageing and Disability SA Inc is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC), is incorporated under the Associations & Incorporations Act, and is a registered NDIS Provider.

The Board may consist of up to 9 Directors (minimum 3) who are elected at the AGM each year and who represent the membership of TADSA setting in place policies, procedures, values, and long-term planning to meet the mission of the organization.

Currently the board consists of 8 Directors whose skiklls and experience span engineering, governance, technology, risk management, human resources, C suite and management experience, and strategy development.

Neil Pokoney (Board Chair)

Neil has dedicated over 50 years to community service, from Meals on Wheels and the NSW RFS to local government, education, and sport. Professionally, he has worked across security, publishing, agriculture, and property, with a strong focus on education and governance. A former Councillor and Mayor, Neil joined TADSA as a volunteer in 2019 and was appointed Chair in 2023. He is passionate about TADSA’s volunteer-led model and mission and brings deep grassroots and leadership experience to the role.

Gemma Cooper

Gemma is a seasoned executive with more than 15 years’ experience in governance, workforce strategy, and transformation across aged care, health, disability, and government. As General Manager of People Services at Lutheran Homes Group, she leads a workforce of over 1,300 and drives digital and cultural reform. A 2021 Governor’s Leadership Foundation graduate and 2024 Governor’s Multicultural Award recipient, Gemma brings deep expertise in inclusive leadership, risk, and organisational change. She serves on the boards of Soundfair and TADSA, championing social impact and community wellbeing.

Lionel Frost

Lionel retired in 2021 after a 27-year career as a senior Systems Engineer with an international aerospace and defence firm. His work in flight and systems simulation took him across South Africa, the UK, USA, and Canada before settling in South Australia, which he and his family now call home. In retirement, Lionel actively volunteers with several organisations, including TADSA, giving back to the community that welcomed his family over three decades ago.

Daniela Froude

Daniela brings over a decade of experience in the health and human services sector and currently holds a senior leadership role with a major South Australian not-for-profit specialising in disability services. With a strong commitment to person-centred care, she is passionate about supporting people to live independently and age in place through tailored supports and assistive technology. Drawing on lived experience as a family carer, Daniela is a strong advocate for practical, dignified solutions that enable people to remain in their homes. She is proud to contribute her insight and leadership to the TADSA Board.

John Harmer

John has been involved with TADSA since 1996 and brings a lifetime of lived experience, advocacy, and professional versatility. Diagnosed with a progressive neurological condition at 17, he has adapted across careers including teaching, accounting, rehabilitation counselling, and financial analysis. A passionate disability advocate, John continues to work tirelessly—often from his bed—to support others. He is committed to TADSA’s sustainability, expanding its impact, and recognising the vital contributions of volunteers and members.

Mike Stevens

Mike has built a diverse career spanning science, engineering, computing, and education. He serves on the boards of TADSA, AllKids, and MOSAIC Adelaide, and contributes to Impact100 SA and SATGA. A business owner, tour guide, and long-time Rotarian, Mike is also a dedicated mentor and conservation volunteer. He holds an Honours Bachelor of Science from the University of Adelaide, along with qualifications in training and tourism. Mike brings practical expertise in government relations, fundraising, and community engagement to the TADSA Board.

Rosemary Padmanabhan

Rosemary is a seasoned leader in aged care and community service, with deep roots in South Australian’s farming heritage. After studying politics and sociology at Flinders University she built a career in public service and health administration before spending over 15 years managing nursing homes at Masonic Homes and Life Care, where she championed compassionate, high-quality care. Rosemary is passionate about fostering community connections and enhancing the lives of older Australians and people with disabilities.

Dr Robin Yang

Robin is an educator, researcher, and consultant with over 15 years’ experience across engineering, marketing, and management. He holds a PhD, MBA, Master’s in Marketing, and a Bachelor’s in Engineering. Robin teaches business and IT management at multiple Australian institutions and contributes to international academic journals as an editor, reviewer, and author. His multidisciplinary expertise strengthens TADSA’s strategic and evidence-based approach to innovation and inclusion.

It’s been a big year for TADSA.

Our family continues to grow – at the date of this annual report we currently have 49 technical and 2 finance volunteers reinforcing our ability to continue delivering on our core purpose – personalised assistive technology (AT) solutions that support inclusion and independence to South Australians navigating disability and ageing.

Our Technical Projects Management Team dedicated 1,884 hours this year to responding to 316 technical assistance inquiries—each one a unique opportunity to understand individual needs, explore off-the-shelf or commercially available solutions, and assess the skills required to deliver meaningful support.

Of these inquiries:

• 233 were assigned to our skilled technical volunteers for assessment and quoting.
• 129 progressed into full technical projects, resulting in 129 custom solutions crafted with care and ingenuity.
• Volunteers contributed 655 hours to designing and building these bespoke solutions, each tailored to improve independence, accessibility, or quality of life.

This work exemplifies our commitment to co-design, innovation, and community-driven impact—where every hour reflects thoughtful collaboration and every solution tells a story of possibility.

Since 2000, TADSA volunteers have proudly supported the Freedom Wheels program—transforming lives one custom bike at a time.

This year, the Freedom Wheels team:

• Conducted 48 cycling assessments across various locations
• Assembled and delivered 28 custom bikes and trikes, each tailored to the unique therapeutic needs of the rider
• Contributed significant volunteer hours to support Novita Tech’s allied health team in delivering regular bike therapy clinics

Just like our assistive technology solutions, no two bikes are ever the same. Each one is a carefully prescribed combination of parts, designed to meet individual goals for mobility, independence, and joy.

A special acknowledgment goes to our dedicated team of bike experts, who undertook the redesign of several adaptable components—enhancing both the assembly process and the rider experience. Their innovation and care ensure that every Freedom Wheels bike is more than just a ride—it’s a pathway to freedom.

Through the federally funded My Active Life project—and thanks to the dedication of TADSA’s incredible volunteers—we supported 441 children, youth, and adults across South Australia to participate in meaningful, inclusive sport and recreation activities.

Our impact extended beyond state borders, with TADSA volunteers also supporting Disability Sports NT to deliver inclusive cycling experiences at Abilities Unleashed multi-sports days in Darwin, Katherine, Palmerston, and Alice Springs, reaching over 500 children aged 6 to 17.

These events weren’t just about physical activity—they were about connection, confidence, and community. Every adapted bike, every inclusive game, and every moment of participation reflected our commitment to making sports and recreation accessible to all.

A year filled with moments of great satisfaction, the one I cherish most is the public recognition of two of TADSA’s long-standing volunteers—Des Chabrel, named Adelaide Hills Citizen of the Year, and Ralph Drage, honoured as a Top 3 Finalist in the Volunteering SA/NT Excellence in Volunteer Management awards.

Their contributions reflect the very heart of our organisation: quiet leadership, unwavering commitment, and a deep belief in the power of community.

These acknowledgements remind us that behind every custom solution, every adapted bike, and every inclusive event, there are people who give generously of their time and talent. And that’s worth celebrating.

Without volunteers, there is no TADSA. That’s why we were so appreciative to receive a grant from Volunteering SA/NT to run our first-ever technical volunteer recruitment radio campaign. This initiative significantly increased awareness of both our volunteering needs and TADSA as an organisation and has been effective in helping our recruitment efforts.

Sustainability remains central to our vision, with revenue generation a persistent challenge. As governments increasingly support people to “age in place” and demand grows for minor home modifications to help people with disabilities live independently, our Board Chair and General Manager visited TADWA to learn how their home modification services operate-the insight to help us assess whether such services could become part of TADSA’s future offerings. No decision has been made at this stage.

People navigating disability and ageing challenges in regional South Australia deserve the same access to customised solutions that restore independence, dignity, and connection. At TADSA, we strive to meet regional needs, but our capacity depends on the availability and location of technical volunteers. Currently, our volunteers are based in Clare to the north, Victor Harbor to the south, the Adelaide Hills, and metropolitan Adelaide.

This year, we actively embraced opportunities through the My Active Life project to connect with regional communities. Whether attending the Kadina Disability & Lifestyle Expo or hosting inclusive cycling excursions in the McLaren Vale, these initiatives allowed us to be present and build visibility and trust.

Looking ahead to FY26, we will focus on developing those regional pathways to TADSA’s customisation services. This will include direct engagement with allied health teams, disability and aged care providers, schools, and local communities, and attracting local technical volunteers.

In closing I hope I have conveyed the powerful lever for inclusion that TADSA has become. It is a hub where volunteers find purpose and connection, staying active and engaged. Clients benefit from increased independence and reduced demand on formal care services. For every person supported, multiple lives were uplifted—thank you to everyone at TADSA, and our growing army of community supporters. As the coming year unfolds, it is with your support that we are encouraged to continue.

Mission accomplished!
Tracey Watters
General Manager

“Behind every solution is a volunteer with purpose”

At the heart of TADSA’s operations are our Technical Volunteers—the epicentre of our organisation and the driving force behind every unique solution. Their impact cannot be overstated. These remarkable individuals bring invaluable skills and experience, transforming their retirement years into a time of meaningful contribution. Their commitment enriches not only the lives of our clients but also their own, creating a vibrant tapestry of mentorship and innovation.

Each project undertaken by TADSA is a testament to the power of collaboration. Volunteers engage deeply with clients and their support networks to understand the challenge, crafting tailored solutions that foster creativity, adaptability, and dignity. As we continue this important work, enhancing our marketing efforts will be key to amplifying our message and expanding our reach.

We are proud to be part of a community-driven initiative that empowers individuals with disabilities while providing volunteers with purpose and connection.

“Where Mainstream Design Stops, We Start”

Most products are made for the majority—but for many, off-the-shelf assistive technology simply doesn’t work or fit. A 2024 World Design Organisation report found that up to 70% of assistive products are abandoned because they don’t meet real needs. That’s where TADSA steps in.

As South Australia’s sole provider of custom-designed independence-enhancing solutions, we operate from a modest yet functional office on the grounds of the Royal Society for the Blind. From this hub, our volunteer Project Managers orchestrate a wide network of technical volunteers—retired engineers, mechanics, fabricators, 3D printing specialists—who work from their own sheds and workshops across metropolitan, regional, and remote South Australia.

 

🎳 A Bowler’s Happiness

A passionate bowler who uses a wheelchair faced losing not just his independence but his connection to community. Our volunteer designed a custom tray attachment that allows him to cary his bowls independently and position himself on the green – preserving his dignity and love for the sport.

 

 

🧵 Voice-Activated Sewing Machine

Another remarkable story involves a woman living with paraplegia who received a voice-operated sewing machine crafted by our volunteers. This innovative solution enabled her to continue running her small business while maintaining her financial independence and creating beautiful work.

 

 

📚 Centenarian’s Passion for Audiobooks Restored

At 101 our remarkable audiobook enthusiast faced a frustrating barrier: her vision impairment, caused by macular degeneration, made it nearly impossible to control the play and pause buttons on her SA Library iPad Libby Switch which helps her access audiobooks online. Listening to stories had long been her joy, but the technology wasn’t keeping pace with her vision needs. Bruce crafted a transformative solution. Using a 3D-printed dome button paired with a Pro Micro device, Bruce enabled seamless audiobook control tailored to her abilities. No complex gestures, no tiny buttons—just intuitive, accessible design. The result – a renewed sense of independence and delight. Her passion for storytelling was not only preserved—it was reignited. This is what inclusive innovation looks like: thoughtful, practical, and deeply human.

🤝Building Inclusive Communities, One Connection at a Time

“We showed up—and so did our community.”

Connection is the thread that runs through everything we do—linking us to our clients, volunteers, referrers, and the broader community. In FY25, we embraced every opportunity to engage, listen, and celebrate inclusion.

🧓 Seniors Forums: Listening First

We attended Seniors Forums in Seaton, Marion, Henley Beach, Hallett Cove, and Harpers Field—vibrant gatherings that allowed us to connect one-on-one with older South Australians. These forums are more than outreach; they’re opportunities to understand lived experience and share how TADSA’s custom assistive technology-  can restore independence and dignity.

🧠 Referrer & Sector Engagement

Allied health professionals—occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and speech pathologists—are key referrers of assistive technology. Their expertise in daily living, mobility, and communication makes them essential partners in identifying when commercial solutions fall short.

This year, we strengthened these connections through:

• Disability and Ageing Lifestyle Expo (Kadina)
• Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) Conference
• Tea Tree Gully Inclusion Committee & Disability Expo
• Allied Health Communities of Practice forums (co-hosted with The Chooze Shop and APM Employment Service)
• Talks at 17 local service clubs, community services and groups

🌏 Regional & Remote Outreach

300 Children. Endless Joy. Unstoppable Inclusion

We proudly hosted and participated in:

• Mt Barker IDoPWD celebration Keith Stephenson Park
• Winifred Taylor Reserve Xplore Freedom Wheels Day in the Park
• Freedom Wheels Inclusion Classic & Accessible Santa
• Tea Tree Gully Redbacks Concert

These events brought together families, children, and young people for accessible fun, festive food, and inclusive Santa photos. Our Accessible Santa’s Christmas Photo Trove helped ‘wheelers’ capture cherished holiday memories—printed on the spot and framed with festive cheer.

📺 Media & Local Business Engagement

We amplified our message through:

• Interactive TV advertising in primary care settings
• Radio interviews (PBFM, CruiseFM)
• Partnerships with local businesses including Charlesworth Nuts, Dimples Restaurant, Salt n Pepper, Spring Gully, and The Chooze Shop

🏫 Schools & Youth Engagement

Our school incursions sparked curiosity and inclusion among students at:

• Mt Barker Primary School
• Modbury Special School
• Victor Harbor School
• Nemarluk School (NT)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

“Honouring Quiet Champions”

It’s often said that TADSA volunteers don’t seek the spotlight—they prefer the dim rays of light that sneak through the windows of their back sheds. But when the light shines outward, their impact cannot go unnoticed.

🌟 Adelaide Hills Council Citizen of the Year: Des Chabrel

We proudly celebrate Des Chabrel, a resident of Oakbank and dedicated TADSA technical volunteer for over 15 years, who was named Adelaide Hills Council Citizen of the Year. Des’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities and promoting health and fitness within his community earned him this prestigious honour. Des exemplifies holistic community service, fostering mobility, inclusion, and wellbeing. His contributions extend beyond TADSA—he actively supports sport and recreation organisations including:

• Tribe Triathlon Club
• Charleston Park Run
• Adelaide Harriers Club

🛠 Celebrating Excellence in Volunteer Leadership: Ralph Drage

Ralph Drage, our esteemed Volunteer Project Manager, was named a top three finalist for Excellence in Volunteer Management at the 2025 Volunteering SA & NT Awards.

Ralph has quietly and consistently contributed more than 25 hours each week since August 2010. His leadership in recruiting, mentoring, and mobilising our volunteer workforce is the backbone of TADSA’s operations.

From coordinating complex projects to fostering a culture of inclusion and purpose, Ralph’s dedication exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and the power of one individual to inspire many.

Donors and Supporters

“A Gift of 💛 Supporter Acknowledgements – A Legacy of Generosity”

In the not-for-profit sector, financial sustainability is always top of mind. But beyond strategy and spreadsheets lies something even more powerful: trust. This year, we were reminded again that when we show up with purpose and authenticity, people respond.

One such moment came when the West Beach Probus Club—after years of community service—chose to wind up operations. In a final act of generosity, they donated their remaining funds, $2,217, to TADSA. Just weeks earlier, we had visited the club at Apex Park to share stories of our bespoke, life-changing projects. The warmth, curiosity, and engagement from members was palpable. Their gift is more than a donation—it’s a legacy of community spirit.

🙏 With Gratitude: Your Support is Our Encouragement

Every gift—large or small—helps us deliver life-changing solutions and build a more inclusive community. From all of us at TADSA, thank you. In FY25, we gratefully acknowledge the individuals, community groups, and organisations who contributed a total of $14,831 to support our mission.

💛 Individual Donors

Damian Del Campo, Tom Osborn, Michael Green, Brian Samuels, Tracey Watters,     Graham Dix, Peter Reed, David Lurline, Julie Ness, Jim & Jacqui Wilson, Des Rosenberg, Dianna Watts, T Violi, Neil Pokoney, Jo McKay, Sharon Robertson, Louisa Bower, Anonymous, Greg Rosser, Margaret Young, Ken Lawson.

🏢 Community Groups & Clubs

Probus Clubs – Glenelg, West Beach, and Nailsworth, Laureate Beta Chapter, Lions Club of Blackwood, Tea Tree Gully Redbacks Band (Concert proceeds)

🎁 Special Contributions

EOFY and Christmas Appeal Donors, Donated Stainless Steel, Play for Purpose Raffle Ticket Buyers, Inclusion Classic prize and product donors: Tea Tree Plaza Retailers –  Charlesworth Nuts, Salt n Pepper, Endota Spa, and Tea Tree Gully Golf Club, Dimples Restaurant and Spring Gully.

📊 Financial Summary

The Year at a Glance

TADSA has prepared a general-purpose financial report in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission (ACNC). The report was reviewed by CPA Karen Sturm of Out & About Bookkeeping.

In FY25, TADSA recorded a surplus of 112,798.44—a turnaround from the $59,944 deficit reported in the previous financial year.

This surplus reflects:

• Strong success in securing grant funding, enabling us to expand our impact across inclusive technology, sport & recreation, and community engagement
• Prudent financial management, ensuring resources were allocated efficiently and sustainably

This result strengthens our foundation for future innovation and reinforces our commitment to delivering high-quality, person-centred solutions across South Australia and beyond.

Revenue Highlights

• Grants received and acquitted: $263,041
  • Includes continued support from the Australian Government for volunteer recruitment $10,600
  • Year 5 of the ILC My Active Life project contributed $232,000
• AT Projects & Freedom Wheels income: $121,290
  • Up from $109,421 in FY24
• Interest income: Increased due to higher bank rates
• Donations & fundraising: Slightly lower than the previous year – total supporter contributions: $17,283 FY 24 compares with $14,842 this year.

Expenditure Overview

• Annual expenditure: $300,392
• Down from $340,656 in FY24
• Reflects a reduction in FTE and operational efficiencies

🌟 Closing Reflection

As we reflect on FY25, one theme rises above all: connection. Whether through custom-built solutions, inclusive events, or heartfelt conversations at community forums, TADSA continues to empower lives and build independence across South Australia.

We are proud of our uniquely volunteer-powered model—where retired engineers, makers, and problem-solvers transform their sheds into innovation hubs. We are grateful for our supporters, referrers, and donors who walk alongside us. And we are inspired by every individual whose independence, dignity, and joy have been restored through our work.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to:

• Strengthening our volunteer base
• Expanding regional and remote outreach
• Deepening sector partnerships
• Securing sustainable funding
• Championing inclusive design and innovation

Together, we are not just building assistive technology—we are building a more inclusive future.

“Connection is our strategy. Inclusion is our outcome.”

 

A copy of the Audited accounts can be downloaded here. Income and Expenditure FY25 Portrait