Championing Accessibility: Baresque and Northcott’s 20-Year Partnership in Action

This year marks a proud milestone - 20 years of partnership with Northcott Disability Services, a collaboration built on shared values of accessibility, inclusion, and a commitment to creating positive change through community impact.

Our journey with Northcott began in 2003, when Richard Blaiklock, Chairman and co-founder of Baresque, was invited to join the Board of Northcott. What started with a donation to support recreational activities through the Cricket Gala Dinner fundraising event quickly evolved into a much deeper connection.

Today, the partnership stands as a testament to the impact that collaboration, aligned purpose, and a shared commitment to community can achieve.

Northcott, originally founded in 1929 as The NSW Society for Crippled Children, has a rich and inspiring history. From its early work in the fight against Polio, Northcott has grown to support people with a wide spectrum of disabilities, championing inclusion, independence, and opportunity at every turn.

Over the past two decades, Richard’s sons, JJ (Baresque’s Managing Director) and Angus Blaiklock (Baresque’s Executive Director), have continued to foster and strengthen the relationship. Through their dedication, and the involvement of the entire Baresque Group team, our partnership has flourished, extending beyond financial support to include hands-on volunteering, donations of acoustic products and outdoor furniture, and active participation in initiatives like Northcott’s Inclusive Athletics and Swimming Carnivals.

One of the reasons our partnership has been so successful is the alignment of our corporate values and goals. As Richard notes,

“Both organisations, despite operating in very different fields, face many of the same fundamental challenges. Whether it’s staffing, effective organisational structures, customer relations, or maintaining high standards. These shared experiences create a natural synergy and a deep mutual respect.” 

Reflecting on the partnership, Richard also shares,

“The one thing that has been consistent and notable to me has been the number of times I have heard individuals say, ‘It has been a privilege to have been able to be part of Northcott and to have been able to make a contribution’. It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply across both organisations, and one that continues to drive our shared commitment.” 

At Baresque Group, we’re proud that our support not only enhances Northcott’s spaces but also contributes to their mission of fostering inclusion and empowerment every day. It has been a privilege to be part of Northcott’s journey, an organisation where every contribution, large or small, helps make a meaningful difference. 

As we look ahead, we remain committed to this important partnership and the incredible work Northcott does. Together, we will continue to build brighter futures, ensuring that inclusion and opportunity are at the heart of everything we do. 

Join us in creating a more inclusive future. Support Northcott’s life-changing programs by donating this Giving Day.

Donate now