Murray Bridges’s Ability Café, run by Genuine Support Services Australia (GSSA), celebrated Welcoming Week today, Friday, September 12, 2025.
Welcoming Week is an annual event, held this year from September 12–21, which promotes cross-cultural and inclusivity. This year’s theme, "Stories We Share," focuses on celebrating differences and commonalities within the community.
(L) Kaylene Shillabeer of Murray Bridge and
(R) Heather Cate of Tailem Bend, enjoying lunch at the Ability Café, Murray Bridge.
Open every Friday from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm, Ability Café is more than just a place to enjoy a low-cost, delicious meal—it is a café with a cause. The café offers individuals with disabilities the opportunity to gain firsthand experience in the hospitality industry, learning skills in cooking, serving, ordering, and customer service in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Jared Daly, Equity & Inclusion Assistant Principal, Nicolene Timmo, Inclusive Education Centre Senior Leader, and Josie Adolphi, Inclusive Education & Learning Support Senior Leader, all of the Murray Bridge High School.
The Murray Bridge High School team joined the day’s festivities, including Nicolene Timmo, Josie Adolphi, and Jared Daly, who were also celebrating their support for the Crows ahead of the weekend’s footy match. The group enjoyed the welcoming atmosphere, shared a wonderful meal, and was excited to learn about the café’s work experience opportunities.
GSSA’s Ability Café continues to demonstrate how community, hospitality, and inclusion can come together.
Welcoming Week shines a spotlight on the importance of embracing diversity, and the café provides a tangible example of this mission in action. By combining a love of food with a commitment to empowerment.
David Mudge of Murray Bridge with his mum, Maryanne Mudge of Tailem Bend, enjoying a coffee after their lunch at Ability Café, Murray Bridge.
Ability Café offers visitors a meaningful experience while helping participants build confidence, independence, and practical skills for future employment.
For anyone looking to enjoy a great meal and support an inspiring cause, the Ability Café is open every Friday at 6 Seventh Street, Murray Bridge.