The work Julie does today is an extension of everything that has been learned from being Darcy’s mum. It is about pushing for systemic change while also celebrating the small, everyday victories.

CHAT SESSION 114 with Julie Fisher

Topic- Being recognised for various awards, including the Able Book Awards, the Beam Awards, and the Women Changing the World Awards, is humbling. But more than anything, these acknowledgements serve as a reminder that voices matter and that the work of advocacy is far from over.

Monday 30th June 2025 1pm https://rppfm.com.au

Podcast 🎧 https://megaphone.link/LCRUI8651201393

Life has a way of leading people down unexpected paths. Some filled with joy, others with struggle, but they all shape people into who they are meant to be. Julie’s journey with Darcy has been one of profound learning, resilience, and ultimately, advocacy for inclusion and understanding.

When Darcy was born, Julie stepped into a world she had not planned for. A world of disability, challenges, and uncertainty. As a new mother, Julie was met with medical terms, assessments, and a society that often saw her child through the lens of limitation rather than possibility. It was overwhelming, and at times, isolating. The stares, the whispers, and the well-meaning but often ignorant comments served as constant reminders that they were navigating a different reality.

But amidst the uncertainty, there was love. So much love. Darcy, with his infectious smile and strong spirit, showed that the journey was not about what he could not do but about celebrating everything he could. He demonstrated the magic of inclusion. Not as a concept, but as a way of life.

As Darcy grew, so did Julie’s awareness of the barriers in society. Not just physical barriers, but attitudinal ones. People with disabilities and their families often have to fight for the most basic rights like access to education, employment opportunities, and, most importantly, acceptance. It became clear that more needed to be done than simply advocating for her son. Julie had to be a voice for broader change.

That realisation led her to storytelling. She began sharing their experiences, the struggles and triumphs, the small wins and the big ones. Julie has written books that centre on inclusion, love, and the power of seeing people for who they are rather than their differences.

The Magic of Inclusion is one such book. One that has resonated with many families and educators striving for a more accepting world. Her book From the Hearts of Mums gave voice to the shared experiences of mothers who, like Julie, walked the unique path of raising children with Down syndrome. Julie’s other books, The Unexpected Journey and children’s book Big School, share their journey with Darcy and his first day at mainstream school.

Through writing, a platform was found, and soon, speaking opportunities followed. Julie began addressing audiences at conferences, expos and summits, sharing their story and encouraging others to rethink inclusion. Julie has spoken at events such as the World Down Syndrome Congress, The National Disability Summit, NDIS Reform Summit and 100 Speakers Summit, where connections were made with advocates, parents, and many others who believe in the same vision.

Beyond writing and speaking, there was a need to create tangible spaces where inclusion was not just discussed but actively practised. This led to involvement in organising her own local disability expo, where people with disabilities, their families and businesses can connect, learn, and celebrate diversity. The local disability expo has become a regular event on Julie’s calendar in her local area. It is a place where acceptance is not just encouraged but expected.

Hosting The Unexpected Journey on RPPFM has become another avenue to amplify voices and share stories that matter. The radio show provides a platform for conversations that challenges perspectives, celebrates achievements, and highlight the real, everyday lives of those in the disability community as well as the service and support providers in the sector. It is a space where voices that are often unheard get the opportunity to be loud and proud.

Darcy is now stepping into a new phase of life, having recently finished school. Like any parent, hopes and dreams for his future remain strong. The wish is for him to find fulfilment, to be part of an environment that values his skills, and to continue living a life filled with purpose and joy. The transition from school to adulthood comes with its own set of challenges but ensuring that he thrives in whatever path he chooses remains the priority.

The work Julie does today is an extension of everything that has been learned from being Darcy’s mum. It is about pushing for systemic change while also celebrating the small, everyday victories. It is about reminding the world that inclusion is not an act of charity, it is a necessity. Whether through books, speaking engagements, the radio show, or the disability expo, the mission remains the same - building bridges to inclusion and understanding.

Being recognised for various awards, including the Able Book Awards, the Beam Awards, and the Women Changing the World Awards, is humbling. But more than anything, these acknowledgements serve as a reminder that voices matter and that the work of advocacy is far from over.

If there is one thing that has been learned on this journey by Julie, it is that inclusion starts with a simple shift in perspective. It is about seeing people for who they are, not what society defines them as. It is about creating a world where Darcy and others like him do not just exist but belong.

The unexpected journey with Darcy has changed Julie’s life in ways never imagined. And for that, Julie is so grateful. The work continues, the conversations evolve, and the vision for a more inclusive world remains stronger than ever.

MEDIA RELEASE

JULIE FISHER TAKES OUT EXCELLENCE IN DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION AT

NATIONAL BEAM IN AWARDS

Julie Fisher, a locally owned and operated business in Langwarrin, has been

recognised on the national stage, taking home Gold in the prestigious Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion at the Beam in Awards 2025, held on 31 May in

Yeppoon, Queensland.

The Beam in Awards celebrates excellence in small business across Australia,

spotlighting innovative, resilient, and high-impact businesses. Julie Fisher was

selected as a national winner from hundreds of entries across the country,

acknowledging its outstanding contribution to the disability sector.

Founder Julie Fisher said:

“Winning this award means so much to me. It’s a recognition of the hard work,

passion, and dedication I’ve poured into creating a better world for people with disability so they can live life as it should be lived and supporting the community. To be celebrated among Australia’s best small businesses is incredibly humbling.”

The awards night brought together finalists from every state and territory, with

categories spanning retail, leadership, wellness, sustainability, creative industries, and regional impact.

About Beam in Awards

Founded by Beck Smith, Beam in Awards is a national initiative that shines a light on small business excellence, especially those leading from the heart of their communities. With a commitment to visibility, connection, and real recognition, Beam is one of Australia’s fastest-growing business awards programs, attracting entries from every corner of the country.

The Keppel Bay Sailing Club in Yeppoon, was home to the Fuchsia Festival

including VIP Events, Masterclasses, Cocktail Party and the Gala as a celebration of over 170 finalists and guests who are redefining what it means to lead in small business.

 “How do you feel when you look at yourself in The Daily Mirror?” 

I’m really proud of how we as a family have navigated our journey with Darcy. He has grown into an amazing young man.

I’m also very proud of my achievements and look forward to always learning more and continuing to support the community with the things I do.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR MEDIA ENQUIRIES:

Julie Fisher

Phone 0439 557 690

www.juliefisher.com.au

hello@juliefisher.com.au

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Julie Fisher on FACEBOOK

Julie Fisher on INSTAGRAM

My hope is that when you’re looking at yourself in the

‘The Daily Mirror’

YOU SMILE

EMBRACE BEING YOU

AND FIND 10 MINUTES IN YOUR DAY TO NOURISH YOUR SOUL!

To get in touch with Cathy email smileinthedailymirror@gmail.com 

'The Daily Mirror' acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and acknowledges and pays respect to their Elders, past and present.