Visiting Naidex, the “Glastonbury” of the disability and independent living world.
For a wheelchair skills trainer and peer support advocate, it is the ultimate “work the room” opportunity.
Here is exactly why I’m visiting Naidex
1. The “Referral Goldmine” (OTs and Physios)
Naidex is packed with Occupational Therapists (OT) and Physiotherapists (PT), not forgetting End Users. OT’s and PT’s are the people who see patients and help them to live independently after a life-changing injury, illness, disability or because of ageing.
- The Angle: They are great at the medical side, but they often don’t have the time (or the lived experience) to teach someone how to “pop a wheelie” over a door threshold or navigate a train station.
- My Mission: Connect with them. I am the “Level 2” training they can’t provide.
2. Live Demonstrations = Instant Trust
Nothing sells wheelchair skills training better than seeing it in action.
- The Angle: While everyone else is looking at the shiny new wheelchairs, I’m the one navigating the crowds with effortless efficiency.
- My Mission: To be my own best advertisement. When someone struggles with a ramp or a tight turn at a stand, that is my opening to mention your business.
3. Strengthening the Peer Support Network
I talk a lot about peer support and “Free Peer Support” is my secret sauce. Naidex is where a community hangs out.
- The Angle: I’m not just looking for clients; I’m looking for community leaders that can spread the word about Freedom Wheelchair Skills.
- My Mission: Find other peer-led organizations. Building a bridge between my training and their existing communities to create a massive “referral loop.”
4. Tech Intelligence (Staying Ahead)
If a client comes to me with the latest carbon-fibre frame or a new power-add on (like a SmartDrive or Batec), I need to know how that gear changes their centre of gravity.
- The Angle: I can’t teach skills if you don’t know the tools.
- My Mission: Test-drive the new tech so I can give my clients expert advice on how to handle it safely.
Who I Need to Track Down
| Person/Group | Why? | Your “Elevator Pitch” |
| OTs/Physios | Referrals | “I teach the real-world skills that rehab often misses.” |
| Equipment Reps | Partnerships | “If your customers can’t use this chair well, they won’t love it. I can help.” |
| New Wheelchair Users | Direct Clients | “I can show you how to make that chair feel like a part of you, not a burden.” |
| Charity Reps | Collaborations | “I offer free peer support alongside my skills training—how can we team up?” |
Elevator Pitch
When I’m visiting Naidex I’ll use my elevator pitch. Since Naidex is fast-paced and noisy, I need pitches that are short, high-impact, and tailored to who I’m talking to.
How’s this for a pitch to an Occupational Therapist, Physiotherapist or Healthcare Professional?
The “Bridge the Gap” Pitch
“Hi, I’m Stuart. Founder of Freedom Wheelchair Skills. I help bridge the gap between clinical rehab and real-world independence. I run a wheelchair skills training business that focuses on the ‘street skills’—like curbs, gravel, and energy efficiency—that clinical settings often don’t have time to cover.
The best part? Every client gets free, ongoing peer support, because we know that community is what actually sustains independence long-term. I’d love to be a resource for your patients when they head home.”
Do you think that could work? Please comment below.
Previous Visits
At a previous visit to the bustling Naidex, I had the chance to challenge my self, and take on the TGA test track. This was an obstacle course you could navigate to put your skills to the test and at the same time try a demo wheelchair, powered or manual, on the course to feel how it handled different terrain.
Sadly, I wasn’t allowed to zip round it at my next visit. Hopefully I will this year!
You can see the video here TGA Test Track Naidex 2019
Disclaimer: Skills are subject to individual abilities.