I’ve just returned from the Tri-State Games held in Portland, Victoria, where Just Better Care Western Victoria and South West Victoria offices entered their team for the fifth Year, “The JBC Jets.”

In between cheering from the sidelines and attending the “Under the Sea” costume dance party, I took the opportunity to speak with the Just Better Care team members and some of the JBC-Jets athletes and get a sense of what keeps them coming back each year.

Emma Cook, Franchise Owner of Just Better Care said “This is our 5th year in coming to the games, it’s always a jam-packed few weeks in the lead-up and then during the event we divide and conquer to make sure that everyone gets to participate in their sport”

It’s the atmosphere of inclusiveness that keeps us coming back each year. It’s unfortunate that teams are capped at only 8 entrants because we often have a waitlist and then have to knock back people, but those lucky enough to come always make me promise to go again!”

Craig Cook, Franchise Owner of Just Better Care said “It’s a big effort from the entire team to provide the support and logistics to make this happen each year, but when you see our participants socialising, smiling and the pride on their face when they receive their medals, it makes is all worth it”

The Tri-State Games started in 1986 and is an inclusive event, organised by volunteers that is held each year for a week during November. The games are staged in host cities, regional towns and sporting venues across Victoria and South Australia. The games themselves comprise a week-long program of sporting and social events where people living with disability can participate in a sport they may not have tried before, as well as connect with others and make new connections. 

The participants are a mix of people from across the regions and the Tri-State Games provides a platform for making new friends, reconnecting with old friends and staying in touch after the games to strengthen those bonds.

The competitive nature of the games doesn't hinder the camaraderie, even with participants from rival teams always checking in with each other to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to contribute.

Support Worker Paityn, who accompanied the team for the first time, said, “I’ve seen a change in their confidence and self-esteem. The games are an opportunity for them to socialise and have fun but also learn new skills, and challenge themselves physically and mentally” 

For Support Worker Kelly, “I love the games as I see my customers in a new environment. I’ve participated alongside them this week in various social events and cheered for them when they won gold and silver medals. We’ll have these memories to talk about when we’re back at home.”

With the support of Just Better Care, the Tri-State games give participants a break from their everyday routines and the opportunity to travel and experience new things. 

The combination of a supportive atmosphere and various activities makes the Tri-State Games an event where everyone can feel safe, welcome and valued to be exactly who they are.

Big thanks to Paityn (Support Worker) for putting together this fabulous video.

To find out more about Tri-State Games go to their website or contact the friendly local team at Just Better Care Western Victoria.