Funding call for "life-changing" plans

Pictured above: Woorim Beach where Council is planning to install specialised facilities.

Plans have been unveiled for 10 new Changing Places facilities which will “change lives” for people with disabilities in the Moreton Bay region.

The Changing Places Network Plan, adopted by Moreton Bay City Council, aims to “ensure suitable facilities for people who can’t use standard accessible toilets”.

Council says it is the first local government in Australia to approve such a plan – but State Government funding is needed for it to become reality.

Changing Places have specialised equipment such as an adjustable adult change table, ceiling hoist, centrally-located toilet, privacy screen and possibly a shower.

Such facilities have been built at South Pine Sports Centre, Redcliffe Library and Albany Creek Aquatic and Leisure Centre, but Council wants funding for 10 more.

More are planned for Caboolture Pool, Caboolture Regional Environmental Education Centre (CREEC), Centenary Lakes Park, Pine Rivers Park, Suttons Beach and Woorim Beach.

The Changing Places Network Plan also lists potential sites at Beachmere, Bribie (Bongaree or Sandstone Point), Caboolture Hub, CREEC, Caboolture Sports Club, Deception Bay, Leslie Patrick Park, Morayfield Sport & Events Centre, North Lakes Community Centre/Library, Pine Rivers Park, Redcliffe foreshore (by markets), Samford Riding for the Disabled, Suttons Beach, Settlement Cove Lagoon, Woody Point and Woorim (Beach Access 6).

“This isn’t just optional, this is a necessity for our growing population and will give dignified, hygienic and safe access to public amenities for people with high support needs.” Mayor Peter Flannery said.

“Changing Places facilities literally change lives for people who need extra assistance to use public amenities, giving them the confidence and dignity to be more involved and engaged with their communities.

“That’s why we’re calling on the next Queensland Government to recognise that Moreton Bay Matters and commit to building 10 new Changing Places facilities.”

The Mayor said 7.1 per cent of residents in City of Moreton Bay need help with day-to-day activities due to a disability, a long-term health condition or ageing.

“This number is much higher compared to the average for most neighbouring councils in Greater Brisbane and across South-East Queensland,” he said.

Queenslanders with Disability Network CEO Michelle Moss supports the move saying Council has laid the foundation with its Changing Places Network Plan.

“This is a critical step toward creating more inclusive and accessible spaces for everyone in our community and we’re proud to support Council in driving these positive changes,” she said.

The Changing Places Network Plan also highlights priority (descending from 1 to 3) “opportunities for future provision” within categories of venues.

For Aquatic and Leisure Centres top priority is seen as Caboolture Swimming Pool, Bribie Island Aquatic Leisure Centre, Burpengary Regional Aquatic and Leisure Centre, Settlement Cove Lagoon, North Lakes Aquatic Centre and Ferny Hills Swimming Pool.

Parks and Playgrounds top priorities are Centenary Lakes, CREEC, Suttons Beach Park, Pine Rivers Park, The Mill at Moreton Bay Water Park and Play Space, The Hills District All Abilities Playground, Bluey Piva Park at Woorim and Sylvan Beach Esplanade in Bellara.

Prioritised town centres are Caboolture, Morayfield, Bongaree, Redcliffe, Woody Point, Scarborough, Kippa-Ring, North Lakes, Strathpine and priority tourist destinations Woorim Beach, Redcliffe Parade, Samford.

To find out more about City of Moreton Bay's Changing Places Network Plan and a link to the report, click here.