Users of the Cooinda BBS can read and submit poetry and stories, send messages to other users, play games and find out about forthcoming events.  The BBS is a service offered by the Cooinda Computer Club, an organization staffed by volunteers and dedicated to reducing the isolation suffered by the chronically ill or disabled.

The BBS was created by Berri woman Roslyn McKearney, who sensed the growing local need for such a program when the Adelaide based Common Ground BBS Service 1800 had to cut back counry user access from two hours per day to 70 per week because of budget restrictions.

The Cooinda BBS aims to provide an information service worthwhile network of communication as well as a for place social interaction.

At present there are 17 users of Cooinda BBS, six of whom Riverlander's.  Participants can receive an hour of free access per day.  To access Cooinda BBS a computer, a modem and a telephone connection are necessary.  For people without this equipment, a limited number of machines are available for loan through the Cooinda Club.

To apply to use the Bulletin Board Service or for more information Cooinda Computer Club services, phone Gerard or Roslyn McKearney on 85821408 between 7 and 8pm on weeknights.

The Riverland has a wealth of disabled in it's own  backyard, and Roslyn McKearney of Berri is a prime example.

Mrs McKearney is what some might term "severely" disabled.  She was born with Cerebal Palsy, a neurological disorder which affects the muscles.

The condition impedes Roslyn's speech and confines her permanently to a wheelchair.  She also suffers from chronic bronchial Asthma.

Roslyn nevertheless displays a determination to achieve despite her disability, and she has succeeded to the point where she is actually a provider of services for disabled people.

I've crossed the line so to speak," she said.  "I'm not just a consumer of disability services anymore - I'm also a service provider."

Roslyn's determination was more than likely born of her almost tragic start to life. Born in 1943, her Mother was left paralysed for three days and during that time Roslyn was not fed by anyone.  I believe the general consensus at the time was that with Ceribal Palsy I was better off dead," she said.  Only her father's appearance at the hospital (he was serving in the army) saved her life.

Roslyn said that despite getting off to a bad start, her upbringing was "always positive" and she was encouraged to both set goals and work extra hard to attain them.

She lived alone for a long time and learnt "what true loneliness was", but she said the years were a learning experience.

I learnt what to do and what not to do when relating to people who are seeking assistance - the seeds were being planted" she said.

Her main goal in life, which she is still working at, is to make a difference for people with disabilities who come after her.

I sometimes despair that 'deep down' attitudes towards the disabled are not as positive as they could be - they even seem to be taking a backwards," she said.  Roslyn has at times been an outspoken advocate for disabled people.

"Occasionally I hit on some pretty deep-seated nerves, but I feel if I can speak when there is something really affecting me or others, then it's necesary," she said.  "I keep plugging away at it."

In 1977, Roslyn married her husband Gerard, on the day which would eventually be proclaimed the International Day for the Disabled - December 3rd. Disability did not prevent her from being successful mother to Gerard's three young daughter's - she is now even a doting grandmother.

It was with Gerard's help, but with her background as the driving force, that Roslyn began what she calls the Cooinda concept. Set up to provide a social invironment for the disabled or chronically ill in the Riverland.  The people who benefit most are those who because of their condition are socialy isolated or literally confined to their homes - like Roslyn herself.

It started with the establishment of the Cooinda Computer Club last year, has since snowballed into a communication  network, computer tuition a  computer loan scheme.

The Cooinda bulletin board system (BBS) enables club members to interact with others via computer without having to leave home.  More than one person can "speak" at a time, and these days the BBS is quite busy with lively discussions and debates.

"People can share experiences and information even when they are ill."  Roslyn said,  "It's a healthy pastime for socially isolated disabled people."
Roslyn said she has another motive in establishing the BBS -  empowerment of  the disabled.  " I'm acutely aware that knowledge is power," she said.   I gather as much information as I can regarding disability and health issues and make it freely available on the Cooinda BBS."

Roslyn said the International Day for the Disabled was indeed a cause for celebration.  "Many people with disabilities are out there in the Riverland achieving ," she said.  "We can certainly celebrate because it is from our disabilities that our strengths are defined and sharpened."