Gunnedah Shire Council is looking to develop its first Inclusive Playground in the Shire and is seeking the input of the local community to develop a design concept for the proposed play space.

“The possibility of establishing an Inclusive Playground in Gunnedah evolved historically from an approach to Council from local resident, Ms Ashley Bender with support from the Touched by Olivia Foundation”, Gunnedah Shire Council’s Community and Social Planner and Project Coordinator, Debra Hilton said.

“For some time now Ms Bender and the Gunnedah community in a broader sense have campaigned for an inclusive play space that can be enjoyed by all children of different abilities, developmental levels and ages within our community”.
“Council agreed to investigate the potential to install an inclusive playground in Gunnedah and established the Inclusive Playground Working Group to progress the initiative”, Ms Hilton said.

“The Gunnedah Inclusive Playground supports Council’s vision for creating accessible and liveable communities by providing a unique and fun public space that encourages participation in recreational activities. Inclusive playgrounds have the potential to provide a balance of play experiences to build the physical, cognitive, sensory and social skills of children as well as an opportunity for children and families of all abilities to learn, play and grow together” Chair of the Inclusive Playground Working Group, Councillor Rebecca Ryan said.

“In order to determine public preference and help shape the development of the design concept, we will be utilising a number of engagement methods, including a public survey, to encourage the community to have their say”, Clr Ryan concluded.

Gunnedahs Inclusive Playground Project Survey can be found here:

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Or you can complete it online at Survey Monkey here, and paper copies are available at the Council Administration Building, 63 Elgin Street, Gunnedah, The Civic, 81 Chandos Street and the Shire Library in Conadilly Street. Survey closes Friday, 02 September 2016.
If you would like to find out more about the project and how you can get involved, contact Debra Hilton on 02 6740 2100 or email council@infogunnedah.com.au.

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Contact: Eliza Gallen 02 6740 2100