17 December, 2019

Gunnedah Shire children will get a taste of Christmas a little early on Thursday when the Livvi’s Place Inclusive Playground officially opens.

The gates will open onto a new space at Wolseley Park that has been designed especially for Gunnedah children of all ages and abilities.

“It will be a magic moment when the children are able to put this amazing equipment to its intended use,” Acting Mayor Rob Hooke said.

“It has been carefully and thoughtfully designed by committee members and inclusive playground experts.
“Play equipment includes a treehouse tower, a sensory garden walk, wheelchair-accessible in-ground trampolines, a flying fox, accessible drinking fountains, barbecues, a raised sand table with wheelchair access and a specially-designed expression swing. There is even a Gunnedah theme, featuring koalas and other artwork.

“Livvi’s Place is one of 24 inclusive playgrounds around Australia and is a wonderful addition to Gunnedah’s attractions for both local people and visitors. It is a place for people of all ages and abilities to picnic, meet and play together.”

The idea for Livvi’s Place began when Gunnedah mum Ashley Bender campaigned for an inclusive playground by presenting a petition with more than 300 signatures to council.

Gunnedah Shire Council formed a partnership with the Touched by Olivia Foundation in 2013. Touched by Olivia has partnered with developers, other businesses and recently with Variety, the Children’s Charity, to create playspaces across Australia.

The playground has been made possible by the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund, a large community contribution and Gunnedah Shire Council.

The official opening will begin at 10.30am on Thursday, December 19 and will include a sausage sizzle on the new barbecues, a short community performance and a ribbon cutting, with the playground open for use by children.
The public is invited to come along and take a look at the new playground.

#ENDS

Media Contact: Eliza Gallen 6740 2100.