Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall swung by Glen Innes’ ANZAC Park to announce accessibility upgrades that will keep the community playing together. Back row, left, Glen Innes Mayor Steve Toms, Adam Marshall, Manager of Open Spaces Graham Archibald, local parents Rochelle and Jason Mayborn with daughter Camille. Front, Matilda and Logan Mayborn.
Thursday, 25 January 2018
YOUNGSTERS of all abilities will soon be able to make the most of Glen Innes’ ANZAC Park, with $13,584 in NSW Government funding to help build the town’s first accessible play equipment – an inclusive carousel and a Liberty Swing, people confined to wheelchairs.
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall announced the accessible play equipment with local mum Rochelle Mayborn, her son Logan, Glen Innes Severn Council Mayor Steve Toms and Manager of Open Spaces Graham Archibald.
The MP said the new equipment would allow many friends and families to play together, in many cases for the first time.
“Most children would like nothing more than to play with friends and siblings but without the right equipment, many with disabilities are left watching from the sidelines,” Mr Marshall said.
“This funding will build upon a $50,000 commitment from council to create a safe and inclusive play space near Bourke Street.
“The playground will soon boast a wheelchair carousel that houses up to eight kids, and an Australian-built accessible swing that will give all youngsters the feeling of flying.
“This wheelchair accessible equipment will be built near to standard swings and slides, ensuring families and friends can play without anyone being left behind.”
Mr Marshall thanked local parents Rochelle and Jason Mayborn for their advocacy, and Glen Innes Severn Council for its enthusiasm for inclusive areas.
“This play equipment is an important step towards creating a more accessible Glen Innes and I’m sure Logan will be thrilled to play with his sisters Camilla and Matilda once more,” Mr Marshall said.
Local mum Rochelle Mayborn said while she once carried Logan to the top of the swing, it had become increasingly difficult as he’d grown.
“The parks are always used, but this will allow the entire community to make the most of them,” Ms Mayborn said.
“It’ll be good for the community to bring these pieces of equipment here, for kids who are in wheelchairs or need a few extra skills.
“Logan’s starting school this year, and it will help him come to the park with friends.”
Mayor Steve Toms said while the upgrades may help a smaller number of people, it would create a “huge difference” in their lives.
“It provides recognition of the challenges that families of children with disabilities can go through – and is a way to help support everyone who lives in or visits Glen Innes,” Cr Toms said.
“It’s important to create opportunities for people across the entire community, helping them enjoy things that the rest of us may take for granted.”