Accessible Arts / arts + disability NSW

The funding will contribute to the design and construction of an all abilities playground in Bain Park Wauchope and construction of a ramp and widening of the doors at the Community Arts Centre adjacent to the park.

Port Macquarie- Hastings Council’s Manager of Recreation and Buildings, Liam Bulley says the accessible playground will increase the physical and social opportunities for people with disability.

“The playground will include a series of ramps, rails and structures that allow for children and parents in wheelchairs or with limited mobility, to move throughout the area. There will be play items and features with visual, tactile and audio stimulation to enhance the experience for people in wheelchairs or with a visual impairment.”

“By improving the accessibility to the Community Arts Centre and linking it to the new playground the area will become a positive community focal point for Wauchope,” said Mr Bulley.

Bago Magic is a performance group based in Wauchope. The group recently celebrated its ten year anniversary, and currently has about 40 members, the majority experiencing some type of disability. Mariet Ludriks, founder and director of Bago Magic welcomes improvement to accessibility at the Community Arts Centre.

"We have used this venue for our performances in the past, and it feels supportive to know the Council are improving accessibility there. Having a fully accessible venue in our local area reinforces the value and appreciation our community has for the creative work we produce," Mariet said.

The grant, part of an $11 million commitment to accessibility initiatives by the Federal Government, will be matched by $115,000 from Council. The intent of the Accessible Communities initiative is to improve the accessibility of community life for people with disability.

The federal Member for Lyne, Independent Rob Oakeshott, congratulated Council on the successful application and on its commitment to improving access issues for people with disability.

“There was considerable interest in this national grants program, so it is fantastic news that our council will receive a helping hand to create the all-abilities playground and improve access to the community arts centre.

“The project is a significant step forward in ensuring that people with a disability have the same access to public infrastructure as everyone else,” Mr Oakeshott said.

The playground installation and Community Arts Centre improvements will be undertaken by approved Council contractors following further consultation on the playground design with the local community as well as play and disability experts.

For more information contact Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.