Rockhampton people have the chance to get involved in Disability Action Week, from July 14-18, with free workshops, a business breakfast and a launch function on the agenda.

The week will be launched by Brian Parker, chair of the Disability Council of Queensland, at 5.30pm on Monday (July 14) at the CQ Community Sports Centre.

The launch will include refreshments, a speech by the Mayor and entertainment by a signing choir. For more information regarding the launch contact Victoria Close - 4922 6122. As part of the Week, free workshops are being offered in various locations around Rockhampton. Central Queensland University's Rockhampton Campus for example, will be hosting a number of workshops on strategies for including students with hearing impairments, students with learning disabilities, and students with mental illness in tertiary education.

Around 100 leading business people are expected to attend the inaugural Disability Action Week Business Breakfast at Rockhampton’s Dreamtime Cultural Centre on July 15. The breakfast gathering will hear from Mark Bagshaw, the head of IBM Australasia's international marketing division, and from Steve Bennett AOM, the co-founder of Employers Making a Difference and co-owner of Benbro Electronics.

For those interested in attending the breakfast, Mr Boardman said there were still places available. To secure a place at the Breakfast contact Eric Boardman the CQ Regional Disability Liaison Officer on 4930 6394 or mobile: 0438 639400.

A full calendar of events and contact details will appear in this week's Local News or is available by contacting 4930 6394.

On behalf of the Rockhampton Disability Network Eric Boardman would like to thank the sponsors - Central Queensland University, Rockhampton City Council, Mercy Health & Aged Care, The Morning Bulletin, Partnerships With Industry Inc, and QMAG.