A Celebration of Inclusion at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
On Sunday 19 October 2025, more than 230 Down Syndrome NSW Members gathered at the Crescent Precinct, The Domain to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month at Down Syndrome NSW’s UP! For Fun event.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, the day overflowed with joy, connection, and community spirit. Families, friends, and supporters came together to honour the achievements and individuality of people with Down syndrome, celebrating inclusion in every sense.
What Is UP! For Fun?
UP! For Fun is Down Syndrome NSW’s annual flagship event for Down Syndrome Awareness Month. Each October, it brings people together to share experiences, build friendships, and highlight the importance of inclusion across NSW.
The 2025 celebration featured live music, inclusive games, art activities, and entertainment for all ages, creating a vibrant atmosphere that truly captured the heart of our community.
Activities and Entertainment
With Master of Ceremonies, Fuzz Ali, who is also an Ambassador of Down Syndrome NSW, keeping the energy high, UP! For Fun delivered a full program of laughter, creativity, and connection.
Picnic in the Park
Families relaxed under the trees, sharing homemade hampers or enjoying meals from the onsite food truck. The picnic setting encouraged new friendships and created a warm, welcoming community feel.
Games for All Ages and Abilities
The open lawns turned into a playground of inclusive games and sports. AFL NSW/ACT led fun all-abilities activities that had everyone. children, parents, and even grandparents joining in!
We also enjoyed a fantastic range of inclusive outdoor games and activities with Leap Frogs Action Sport and Games, bringing even more energy, teamwork, and laughter to the day. Their vibrant sessions encouraged everyone to get moving, have fun, and celebrate being active together.
Magical Visits
There were squeals of excitement as everyone’s favourite mermaid and superhero arrived to meet guests, pose for photos, and spread smiles across the crowd.
Dance and Live Performances
Dance-ability wowed audiences with an inspiring routine that celebrated movement and self-expression.
Matilda Maunder delivered a heartfelt performance that reminded everyone why music brings people together.
Local favourites Swamp Dogs filled the park with lively tunes that had the crowd clapping and dancing along. The Swamp Dogs are a rock band that play original songs alongside classic jams that we all know and love, part of Studio Artes Program.
Our members joined in the fun — taking to the lawn to dance, sing, and boogie to the music, with bubbles floating through the air adding to the festive atmosphere.
The mix of live music, laughter, and bubble-blowing made this one of the most joyful parts of the day.
Interactive Drumming Session
A highlight for many, the drumming circle, led by Emily at Heart, Hand and Feet, created a rhythm of unity as people of all ages joined in. The sound echoed across The Domain, symbolising connection and joy.
Arts and Crafts with Bunnings
At the Bunnings arts and crafts station, children and adults alike painted, glued, and created colourful keepsakes to take home — a perfect photo moment of hands-on creativity.
Face Painting and Nail Artwork
Colourful face paint, glitter, and creative nail art added sparkle throughout the day, making sure everyone looked celebration-ready.
Fire Truck Fun
The surprise visit from a fire truck was a huge hit with kids, who lined up to explore and learn about fire safety from friendly firefighters. They even got to sit inside the fire truck, try on helmets, and experience what it’s like to be a real firefighter, an unforgettable highlight of the day!
Chair Yoga and Relaxation
For parents and carers wanting a peaceful moment, chair yoga sessions offered gentle stretching and mindfulness, a reminder that wellbeing and rest are also part of inclusion.
We were delighted to have our Down Syndrome NSW Ambassadors, Mitch and Mark, Fuzz Ali, and Lyndal Frollano, join us at UP! For Fun. Their continued support, advocacy, and enthusiasm help amplify our message of inclusion and acceptance throughout the wider community.
Each of them plays an important role in creating and spreading awareness about the experiences and achievements of people with Down syndrome, and we’re so grateful for their ongoing involvement in the Down Syndrome NSW family.
Each October, Down Syndrome Awareness Month reminds us that inclusion begins with understanding. Events like UP! For Fun show that communities thrive when everyone is valued and supported.
A huge thank you, as always, to our members, their families, and friends for attending and making this such a special celebration. Your energy, laughter, and support are what make events like UP! For Fun truly shine.
Thank You to Our Supporters
This event was made possible thanks to our generous partners:
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Department of Social Services – Information Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) Program
We also extend heartfelt thanks to our donors, volunteers, performers, staff, and families who helped make the day unforgettable. Your contributions allow Down Syndrome NSW to continue delivering programs and events that connect, empower, and celebrate our community.
If you would like to support our work, you can still make a donation during October for Down Syndrome Awareness Month. Every contribution helps us continue to provide vital programs, advocacy, and support across NSW.
At Down Syndrome NSW, we host inclusive events and programs throughout the year for people with Down syndrome of all ages, as well as their families and carers. From social clubs and workshops to camps and community celebrations, there’s always something happening to connect, learn, and have fun together.
It’s free to become a member of Down Syndrome NSW, and members receive access to events, resources, and opportunities designed to support and celebrate our community.
