About Fun Farm
Fun Farm Ltd was created to meet a gap in social connection activities and services for teenagers and young adults with disabilities, their carers and families in the Redland Coast area of Brisbane. Once children reach their teenage years and the high-school/post-schooling phase, their options for socialising, making friends and doing things their mainstream peers take for granted becomes much more limited.
This is also the case for the families, whose networks fade as the social activities of the schooling phase fade. Fun Farm aims to fill the hole in social inclusion activities for this age group and demographic; and to provide a program of events and activities that are not only ‘fun’,but which also help build skills and connect and educate families and carers.
The Fun Farm Ltd is a registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not for Profits Commission (ACNC) and is registered Charity under the Collections Act (Qld) 1966. The Fun Farm offers a range of fun activities and experiences on a monthly basis for people with disAbilities to promote friendships and connections with peers similar in age. Fun activities and recreational programs, or a fun afternoon out which gives participants and their family a chance to connect, make new friends in a supportive environment. We don’t have the Farm yet, however that is the vision of Fun Farm.
The Fun Farm Story
Fun Farm was initially the brainchild of Karen Howe, whose son Dylan lives with disability.
As Dylan grew into his late teens, and approaching his final year of school, Karen discovered there just wasn’t much around in the Redlands offering activities, connection and support for teenagers and young adults with disAbilities. “For me, it was about creating social circles and connections for our people, and having some FUN things to do, said Karen. I also realised that families and carers of those living with disAbility could benefit from being part of a community of like-minded people, sharing resources and celebrating wins.”
The Fun Farm Vision
We emphasise community involvement and inclusivity, aiming to fill a gap in the Redlands community for individuals with disabilities.
Watch to learn how Fun Farm aims to bridge the gap, foster understanding, and create a supportive environment for everyone. Join us in envisioning a space where all abilities come together, make friends, and feel a sense of belonging.
Watch the video to learn more.
Meet Our Team
Fun Farm Limited was established in 2019, and is governed by a Board of Directors, who bring extensive and diverse skillset to the table. The Board is responsible for the overall governance, management and strategic direction of Fun Farm Limited.
Karen Howe – Director/Chairperson (SupportStar)
Founder/Director, Inspirational Author/Writer and disAbility Advocate.
Hi there! My name is Karen, and I’m a proud local from Redlands Coast. As a parent of a son with special needs who requires 24/7 care, I understand the unique challenges and joys that come with this journey.
I’m excited to share that we have an incredible team of Directors on board, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to help turn our vision into reality. Together, we aim to create a welcoming space for the disability community where everyone can pursue their hopes and dreams.
Our focus is on delivering engaging activities and enriching experiences designed to build individual capacity and foster connections among people with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. We believe in making this journey enjoyable and fulfilling for everyone involved – fun is guaranteed!
We’re eager to embark on this adventure and make a positive impact in our community. Thank you for being a part of it!
Karen Vercoe – Director/Treasurer (SupportStar)
Managing Director, The HR People
I have been fortunate to have a couple of special people in my life. Sons of friends, who have taught me that life isn’t always fair.
One of them once said to me, whilst we were at the beach and his wheel chair wouldn’t go any further, “I’d just like to do what everyone else does.”.
He doesn’t want to be a millionaire. He doesn’t want to take over the world. He just wants to do what everyone else does.
Karen Howe suggested Fun Farm and I thought, you know what? It meets the brief of what the boys need. Just a little fun in their life, every now and then. Not too much to ask is it? I thought not.
Lynne Sturgess – Volunteer Extraordinaire – Fundraiser/Sponsorships (SupportStar)
Director of Precision Loans
Lynne Sturgess is a remarkable individual known for her strong sense of community in the Redlands area. Her dedication to giving back to others is evident in her numerous contributions to local initiatives and causes. In addition to her community involvement, Lynne is an astute businesswoman, leveraging her expertise in finance through her work with Precision Loans. Her combination of business acumen and community spirit makes her a valuable asset to both her clients and her local community, fostering a supportive environment for those around her. Whether she’s advocating for local projects or providing financial solutions, Lynne Sturgess embodies the ideal of service and professionalism.