The Brisbane Lions are pleased to announce the Club’s affiliation with the Queensland Government’s Companion Card which is designed to provide fair ticketing for people with a disability who require a companion.

Companion Card holders who present their card when purchasing daily tickets to a Lions home match at the Gabba through Ticketek in 2009 will be issued with a second ‘companion’ ticket at no extra charge.

The Companion Card program was unveiled by Queensland Premier Anna Bligh earlier this month and the Lions were quick to embrace the initiative.

“The Companion Card – which can be used across Queensland as well as Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and Western Australia – has been designed for people with a disability who need the aid of a carer to take part in activities most people take for granted,” Ms Bligh said.

“The Companion Card program acknowledges the human and legal rights of people with a disability to participate equally in the community.”

“Cardholders who require lifelong attendant will be able to access affiliated community venues and activities with their carer for the price of a single ticket.”

“It’s about making it more affordable for people with a disability to join in community life – removing the financial barrier often experienced by those with high mobility, communication and self-care support needs.”

“By offering a ticket at no charge to an accompanying person who is providing attendant care, this program will improve the quality of life and deliver on our vision to build stronger, more inclusive communities in Tomorrow’s Queensland.”

Disability Services Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr said reciprocal rights were in place so Queenslanders with a Companion Card will be able to use their card in most other states with the program aiming to become national in time.

“It’s a great scheme that enables venues, promoters, entertainers and sporting organisations to demonstrate their commitment to giving people a fair go by helping those who need assistance,” she said.

Please visit either www.companioncard.asn.au or www.disability.qld.gov.au to receive further information about the Companion Card.

The Lions’ Gabba home games for 2009 will go on sale through Ticketek from Tuesday 17 March. Call Ticketek directly on 13 28 49 to book your tickets on this date.