A new all-abilities playground

Published on 13 August 2019

I am pleased to announce that the new all-abilities playground being built at Deerbush Park will feature a Liberty Swing and accessible toilet block as part of the Showground redevelopment.

The Liberty Swing is designed to accommodate wheelchairs. This is particularly helpful when children are older and heavier. It will also accommodate adults in wheelchairs, and saves heavy lifting for parents and carers.

The new toilet block will include a hydraulic changing table to allow parents and carers to change adults or larger children without heavy lifting.

This followed representations I received from a local family about including a Liberty Swing at the park. This family has two children in wheelchairs and they currently travel out of the area to enjoy the swing.

At last week's Council Meeting, Councillors were unanimous in their support to include the Liberty Swing and hydraulic change table in the designs for Deerbush Park.

I am proud of how supportive the community has been of our plans for this new all-abilities playground. From community feedback, we have included in the draft designs a ground level trampoline, wheelchair-accessible carousel and riverbed crossing, sensory timeout spinner and musical instruments. These elements will accompany a water splash pad, flying fox, rope climbing course, learn to ride paths and more – something for every child in our City.

Fairfield City is an inclusive city. This means celebrating and supporting residents of all abilities.

Construction of the new park is due to begin early next year and I look forward to being able to open this park to every family in Fairfield City to come and enjoy.