A New Era Begins: Launching Merge Australia
- Victoria Lessing
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
In the heart of Central Coast, a group of ambitious thirty Deaf Community and Auslan supporters came together to celebrate a bold new beginning - the launch of Merge Australia (Merge AU). This Deaf-led startup aims to revolutionise the Auslan industry. Led by Polly van Aardt (Deaf, from Lake Macquarie, NSW) and Victoria Lessing (from New Zealand), a visionary with a passion for innovation, the team embarked on their journey with determination and a shared dream of success.
A Momentous Launch Event
The Launch of Merge AU Company took place on Saturday, 26th April 2025 from 1:00pm to 5:30pm at the Ourimbah Room, Ourimbah-Lisarow RSL Club. The event was a momentous occasion that brought together individuals passionate about Deaf culture and the preservation of Auslan, the Australian Sign Language.
Victoria Lessing: An Inspiring Co-Founder
Victoria Lessing, co-founder of Merge NZ, shared the success story of the 8-year-old company in New Zealand. She introduced the vision and goals for Merge AU in Australia, highlighting the importance of creating a platform for Deaf individuals to thrive and amplify their voices in society.
Kim Beasley: A Respected Deaf Advocate
Kim Beasley, a well-respected Deaf man, delivered an inspirational presentation on the history of Auslan dating back to the early 1800s. He emphasised the significance of Auslan Day, celebrated annually on 13th April, and stressed the importance of preserving Auslan as a valuable aspect of Deaf culture.
Polly van Aardt: Educating on Deaf Colonisation and Decolonisation
Polly van Aardt shared a moving and educational piece on Deaf Colonisation and Decolonisation, shedding light on the historical injustices faced by the Deaf community. She expressed hope for reclaiming Deaf education and community, paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive environment for Deaf individuals.
Merge for a Better Future
Deaf educator Eleanor highlighted ongoing challenges for DHH students in NSW public schools - such as the shortage of Deaf teachers and limited Auslan knowledge among hearing teaching staff. She called for Deaf and hearing communities to merge, echoing Merge AU’s mission to build inclusive futures for Deaf children.
Empowering the Next Generation of Deaf Individuals
Before the official launch of Merge AU, a young Deaf girl, Tatiana Cleary, who was five years old, captured the hearts of the audience. Born into a family where everyone communicates using Auslan, including her parents, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she symbolised Merge AU's vision for every child in Australia to have the opportunity to engage in natural-flow conversations in Auslan.
Breaking Barriers and Amplifying Deaf Voices
The mission of Merge AU is clear: "Together, we can break barriers, amplify Deaf voices, and ensure the future of Auslan and Deaf culture." By supporting Merge AU, individuals have the power to contribute to a more inclusive society where Deaf individuals are empowered to thrive and be heard.
Conclusion
The Launch of Merge Australia Company was not just an event; it was a celebration of unity, empowerment, and the rich cultural heritage of the Deaf community. As Merge AU embarks on this new journey, it seeks to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for Deaf individuals across Australia, ensuring that the future of Auslan and Deaf culture remains vibrant and strong.
A Special Thank You
We extend our sincere thanks to our generous sponsors - TQC, Casey's Toys, Sign Auslan and Merge NZ for their incredible support in making the launch of Merge AU possible. Your belief in our vision and commitment to the Deaf community helped bring this milestone to life. We are deeply grateful.
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