A specialised accessible amenities facility at ANZAC Park has reopened following repairs and the installation of additional security measures to better protect the site from vandalism.
The new facility, situated at the redeveloped Quay Street site, has also officially received its Changing Places accreditation.
Unfortunately, shortly after being constructed, it was temporarily closed as a result of repeated acts of vandalism which caused significant damage to the automatic entry door.
Bundaberg Regional Council has since installed a custom-fabricated steel security gate to provide an additional layer of protection for the specialised entry system while maintaining access for eligible users.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said the facility was a great addition to the park and provided the highest level of accessibility for park amenities in the Bundaberg Region.
“To be Changing Places certified a toilet must be larger than a standard accessible toilet and include important facilities like an adult-sized change table, a hoist system and automatic door,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“This is a positive addition to our region to create more accessible and inclusive spaces.
“These features come at a significant investment and I would urge against any further senseless destruction which would limit access to these facilities again and also leave ratepayers to pick up the repair bill.
“Everyone in our community deserves the dignity of being able to use a public restroom, and it’s great to see that this facility is once again accessible to those people who rely on it.”
The new security gate will be locked overnight as part of Council’s routine maintenance program.
The gate will be fitted with a Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK) locking system, ensuring eligible MLAK key holders can continue to access the facility at all times, including overnight.
Changing Places accreditation
The amenities block has received Changing Places accreditation, recognising the facility as meeting national standards for people with disability who have high support needs.
Changing Places facilities provide additional space and specialised equipment, including an adult-sized change table and ceiling hoist, to enable people with profound or multiple disabilities to use bathroom facilities safely and with dignity.
Chair of All Abilities Alliance Bundaberg Tina Marshall said it was great news for the community.
“A Changing Places facility is extremely important for the Bundaberg Region,” she said.
“It will provide people with complex disabilities access to safe, dignified and appropriate amenities, allowing them to participate more fully in community life.
“It also demonstrates the region’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion.”
The All Abilities Alliance is a community led group of individuals, families, disability providers, organisations, businesses and services who have a connection with disability within the Bundaberg Region.
“Many of our participants require specialised equipment and additional space that standard accessible toilets cannot provide,” Tina said.
“A Changing Places facility will enable them to access community events, appointments and recreational activities with greater comfort, safety and independence, while also supporting their carers.”
Tina said there were added benefits of having such a facility located in a central space like ANZAC Park.
“It provides easy access to the CBD, community events, parks, cafes and the riverfront,” she said.
“This allows people living with disabilities and their families to spend more time enjoying the community without needing to leave early or avoid outings due to a lack of suitable facilities.”
The works are supported through the State Government’s Works for Queensland initiative.
To find out the eligibility requirements for a MLAK to access the adult change room, click here.
