City of Busselton Council in W.A. has given the green light for the installation of a special Ability Whirl roundabout to be installed adjacent to the new children’s playground at the Busselton Foreshore.
This new and innovative piece of play equipment will complement existing equipment and be a valuable asset for the community.
The Ability Whirl is used extensively in schools, hospitals and public playgrounds.
Fitted flush to the ground the roundabout is easily accessed by wheelchairs and pushchairs and has two enclosed stations with locking gates which provide security and support for wheelchair users.
At an approximate cost of $50,000 this is a major investment. However, the City has been fortunate to secure funding for the project from the South West Development Commission.
The decision to acquire the Ability Whirl and to install it at the Busselton Foreshore was made after extensive research and consultation on the part of the City’s Access and Inclusion Reference Group.
The group sought input from the Disability Services Commission and Enable South West – both groups having extensive contact with parents and children with disabilities.
Busselton Foreshore was selected as the preferred site for the installation due to its popularity with families, proximity to the beach and the availability of a wider array of facilities including toilets, restaurants and BBQs and is considered the most cost effective location.
Councillor Coralie Tarbotton, who represents Council on the Access and Inclusion Reference Group, said the Ability Whirl will be a wonderful addition to the City’s foreshore.
“In planning and implementing the various stages of the Busselton Foreshore upgrade we’ve been very mindful of the need to cater for all members our community.
“This includes children who, for whatever reason, may struggle with conventional play equipment. The Ability Whirl is particularly inclusive as it enables children with varying levels of mobility to enjoy some fun and excitement together.”
The Ability Whirl has been scheduled for installation before the end of the financial year.
