International Day of People with Disability: Train crew turns commute into class for autistic boy

What started as a feared first train ride has become a daily educational adventure for an autistic boy, thanks to railway staff who refuse to see disability as a barrier.

Twelve-year-old Jay Mahato looks forward to his daily trips on V/Line's Geelong line with parents Ajay and Rupinder. Picture: Brad Fleet.

An autistic boy’s love of trains has created an unexpected bond with V/Line staff who ensure his daily journeys become learning opportunities.

Twelve-year-old Jay Mahato, who was diagnosed with level three autism at the age of three and is non-verbal, rides a round trip from Waurn Ponds to Geelong every day with his parents, Ajay and Rupinder.

His father Ajay Mahato said Jay’s love of trains began when he was just six years old.

“We were scared of how he would react to his first train ride … but he loves going on trains, it helps regulate him” Mr Mahato said.

“Everyone knows him at Waurn Ponds, South Geelong, Geelong.

“There is great support … the staff understand everything.”

The family also integrate train trips into his homeschooling education, using the stations, train schedules and community interactions as tools for learning, such as teaching him about safety cues, colours and time.

Twelve year-old Jay Mahato, parents Ajay and Rupinder, and V/Line conductor Bridgette Burns. Picture: Brad Fleet.

One staff member who has become especially important to the family is Geelong-based conductor Bridgette Burns.

“I’m proud of the rapport I’ve developed with Jay and his parents, and it brings a smile to my face when I see them on my train,” Ms Burns said.

Through its partnership with the Hidden Disabilities Program, V/Line has introduced green sunflower lanyards to discreetly identify passengers with hidden disabilities.

“It’s helpful because when you wear the lanyard, people are aware and give you space and understand needs rather than having to explain … which is hard, especially with autism” Mr Mahato said.

It comes as the state government this week launched Travellers Aid at Geelong station.

Travellers Aid Geelong supervisor Deb King assists passenger Steve Hurd at Geelong Station. Picture: Supplied.

The initiative, which has an annual allocation of $500,000, aims to support passengers who may need extra assistance changing platforms, getting to the coach or car park drop-off zones.

The service will be available to passengers of all ages and abilities between 8am and 4pm every weekday.

International Day of People with Disability is on December 3.

Originally published as International Day of People with Disability: Train crew turns commute into class for autistic boy