Special playground at Canton Beach set to open

Wyong Shire Council has completed a new all access children’s playground at Canton Beach, thanks to funds provided by the Federal Government’s Community Infrastructure Grants Program.

The $560,000 playground will be officially opened by Mayor Bob Graham and Federal Member for Dobell Craig Thomson this Saturday, 24 October 2009.

“This playground is certainly unique and Council staff should be congratulated for a job well done,” Mayor Bob Graham said.

“Thanks to the Federal Government’s Community Infrastructure Grants Program, we were able to design and build a playground catering for children of all ages and abilities, and particularly welcome children in wheelchairs and those with visual disabilities.”

The new playground is located on Belbowrie St at Canton Beach, Toukley. It has been designed in consultation with Guide Dogs Australia, local community groups, businesses, senior citizens and the area’s youth.

“Along with being a very noteworthy community project, the Canton Beach playground is also part of ongoing improvements Council is committed to making to the Tuggerah Lakes foreshores,” Mayor Graham said.

“The community of Toukley and surrounding areas will not only be getting a uniquely designed playground, but there will be improvements to the surrounding reserve, amenities and public facilities.”

Council’s Manager of Contracts and Special Projects Mike Long said the playground has been fenced for safety and includes wheelchair and guide dog access to picnic tables and playground areas.

“There is an unbroken line on the ground to guide users through the circuit, contrasting colours and a range of sound, scent, balance and educational experiences to stimulate the senses of visually impaired children,” Mr Long said.

“We have also put in some strongly scented plants that have been positioned so children can follow a ‘sensory trail’.”

The play equipment at the park is suitable for people of all abilities.

“Some of the play equipment at the park includes board games built into table tops; dual slippery slides where parents or carers can accompany children; swings wide enough for adults as well as children; chimes; bells suspended on cables and talking tubes,” Mr Long said.

To improve future access to the area, the section of existing one-way traffic in Belbowrie St will be converted to two-way.

The official opening will take place at 11:00am this Saturday, October 24, with activities to entertain visitors from 10:00am to 2:00pm.

Media contact: Cameron Bell (02) 4350 1667

Page last updated: 19/10/09