‘Changing Places’ facilities for All Abilities Playgrounds

Helping to celebrate the opening of the Changing Spaces facility at Anzac Park are Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour, Dom Kruger and Councillor Jade Wellings.

A new inclusive toilet and change room facility, known as a ‘Changing Places’ facility, has opened in Anzac Park, Maryborough.

“Anzac Park has become a hive of activity,” Councillor Jade Wellings said.

“It now hosts SplashSide water play area as well as a skatepark, children’s adventure play area as well as netball, tennis and Park Run, barbecues and is a popular family playground.

“The facility has opened just in time as we move into summer and start spending more time outdoors.”

Member for Maryborough Bruce Saunders said the Queensland Government invested $800,000 through the successful Works for Queensland program.

“The Works for Queensland program provides funding to get projects off the ground that will create jobs and make a big difference to regional communities,” Mr Saunders said.

“Council has advised this project has supported 9 jobs.

“This is great news for Maryborough and for our region’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.” 

The need for inclusive facilities was highlighted by a KPMG study which found that the Fraser Coast has double the number of residents living with a disability than the Queensland average, Cr Welling said.

“By providing this new facility we can ensure that those with high support needs and their carers can more easily participate in our community.”

Now that the facility has been completed, Council will apply to have it assessed and approved as a Changing Place facility and registered on a National Database.

“The accreditation process ensures that Changing Places are built to standard, fit for purpose and access is provided via a Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK) for carers, assistants and support workers to effectively plan outings, excursions and activities,” Cr Wellings said.