THE playground at Westport Park, Port Macquarie is set to get a complete overhaul as a result of a partnership between council, the NSW Government and the Touched by Olivia Foundation.
The project will include installation of an inclusive playground for children, families and seniors that will cater for all different ages and differences. Director of Infrastructure Services Jeffery Sharp explains the collaborative nature of the project.
“This playground is one of our primary community recreation spaces and the need to upgrade and expand it has been identified clearly in community consultation in recent months,” Mr Sharp said.
“Council has a capital works budget of $100,000 allocated to the upgrade along with a $50,000 grant from NSW Sport and Recreation ensuring the construction costs can be met. The partnership with the Touched by Olivia Foundation will see the inclusion of corporate and charitable sponsorship to donate key pieces of playground equipment.
“Community input is important for ensuring that the playground meets the needs of a variety of users. That process has already involved meetings on-site between council, the landscape architect and users such as representatives from St Joseph’s Family Services, Westport High School Special Support Unit and the Hastings Autism and Aspergers Research Group.”
The community involvement was recently increased with a stall on-site as part of the Hastings Foreshore markets. Visitors were able to see concept plans and discuss the types of equipment being considered for the playground. Representatives from the Touched By Olivia Foundation were also on-site to explain the charity role that businesses and corporate groups can play in donating funds for specialist equipment.
Rebecca Ho from the foundation believes this project will deliver a unique facility to the Hastings.
“The Touched by Olivia Foundation is focused on supporting communities to include everyone. With one in five Australians living with a disability, it makes sense that we create spaces that include the needs of everyone, regardless of their age, ability or difference.
“Westport Park will become part of our national network of Livvi’s Place Inclusive Playspaces, and we are really looking forward to working closely with the council and community to bring this fantastic space to life,” said Ms Ho.
Copies of the concept plans can be viewed at council offices and libraries or online at www.pmhclistening.com.au. Comments on the concept plans will then be reviewed by the project team before being presented to council.
