Saxby's Basketball Stadium in Taree on Tuesday, December 3 will be the venue of the Celebrating Abilities Concert that will involve a concert, art, cooking and poetry competitions and a small fashion parade.

December 3 is celebrated as the International Day of People with Disability and is a catalyst for the Manning Valley to celebrate the achievements of people with a disability, and recognise the people who work to support their endeavours to live a wonderful life.

The creation of delicious sweet treats will be the objective of participants in the Manning Taste Challenge. The event is sponsored by Bent on Food in Wingham and owner, Donna Carrier will enjoy the challenge of tasting each entry to determine the winner. Freshly baked items will be delivered to the stadium between 9.30am and 9.45am with the winner to be announced around 10.30am.

Art and poetry competition entries will also be on display at the stadium. The entries were submitted during September and also displayed at Taree Show with the winner of both competitions to be announced at the concert.

Emma Lowry of Forster is looking forward to her debut as a model in a small fashion parade at the stadium.

With the support of her family and friends, Emma will model a dress she selected for the event. Emma was recently one of 12 participants who were part of a new education approach that encouraged participants to identify their dreams and develop a 'Big Plan'.

Urged to use 'possibility thinking', participants were encouraged to consider what it might take for their life to be interesting and fulfilling and for Emma, she wanted it to involve some modelling experiences.

The Celebrating Abilities Concert will be her first modelling experience and she is keen for the community to celebrate her steps towards achieving an aspect of her 'Big Plan'.

For further information about the concert contact Richard Wheatley at Greater Taree City Council on 6592 5358.