Northern Beaches Council has opened a brand new inclusive playground, designed for kids of all abilities, at Newport's Bert Payne Reserve in time for International Day for People with a Disability this Saturday.
Council's Administrator, Dick Persson AM, said this inclusive playground means kids of all abilities can play together on the same equipment, reducing any sense of separateness or inequality.
"After hearing impassioned pleas from parents of children with a disability, I want to ensure Northern Beaches playgrounds are as accessible and inclusive as possible.
"A great aspect of this playground is that disability support organisation Northern Beaches Interchange, as well as local parents, have helped us develop it for a diverse range of kids.
"This is now the third inclusive playground on the Northern Beaches, with others at Collaroy Beach and North Steyne, Manly.
"I am committed to disability inclusion, which is why we are also developing Northern Beaches' first Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) to create a more inclusive and accessible community for all residents and visitors to the Northern Beaches," said Mr Persson.
Local, award-winning inclusive playground equipment suppliers, Proludic, supplied equipment which includes a carousel for kids with and without wheelchairs.
Other playground features include a trampoline at ground level so kids don't have to climb up to it or can sit on it, and a climbing platform with a ramp so kids in a wheelchair can get up to the top.
The playground is fully-fenced, next to the beach and surf club, and there are BBQ facilities, shade cloths, public toilets and plenty of parking.
"When visiting the site, it was clear to me that Council also needs to invest in the rest of Bert Payne Reserve so I have asked Council's staff to prepare a landscape plan in the future identifying what upgrades we could make to improve this beautiful area.
"We thank the Cancer Council and NSW Office of Sport for helping Council fund the playground," said Mr Persson.
Bert Payne Reserve and Playground
Barrenjoey Road, South end of the beach, Newport
DIAP information and feedback sessions
Tue 29 Nov, Pittwater RSL, 6:30-8:30pm, registrations and refreshments from 6pm.
Thu 1 Dec, Dee Why RSL, 10:30am-12:30pm, registrations and refreshments from 10am.