East Gippsland Shire Council, disability advocates and community representatives came together last Thursday, November 6, to celebrate the opening of a Changing Places facility, designed for people with high support or mobility needs, on the Lakes Entrance foreshore.
The ribbon was cut by upper house member for eastern Victoria, Tom McIntosh, joined by East Gippsland Shire mayor Cr John White, Councillors Tom Crook and Arthur Allen, representatives from the Lakes Entrance Action and Development Association including Bruce Hurley and Sharen Cameron, Gippsland Disability Advocacy executive officer Leanne Wishart, and council staff and community members.
The new facility provides fully accessible toilets and changerooms for people with disabilities and their carers. Features include a height-adjustable adult change table, ceiling hoist, accessible shower, Braille signage, and extra space for carers.
Bianca Bassett, a wheelchair user and Lakes Entrance local, noted that the Changing Places facility represents far more than just a bathroom.
“It means not having to choose between comfort and participation. It means not having to stay home,” Bianca said.
“Disability inclusion isn’t just a moral imperative, it’s an economic opportunity.”
“When we stay home, our families stay home. Our friends stay home. Our communities miss out on our presence, our contributions and our stories.”
Mayor Cr John White said the facility will make a big difference for residents and visitors alike.
“This is about dignity, inclusion and making sure everyone can be part of community life,” he said.
“It means families and carers can enjoy a day at the beach or a walk along the foreshore without the stress of not having suitable facilities nearby.”
The Lakes Entrance facility was jointly funded by the Victorian Department of
Families, Fairness and Housing and Council, as part of a statewide program to improve access for people with disability.
Lakes Entrance Action and Development Association welcomed the project, saying it complements the town’s ongoing efforts to make the foreshore more welcoming for everyone.
The facility is open 24 hours a day and can be accessed using a Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK).
“Everyone deserves to be part of community life,” Cr White said.
“This is another step in making that happen, one facility at a time.”
