NEWS

Dubbo City Council will officially launch its first All Abilities Playground at 1.30pm today, 30 March 2011. Livvi’s Place at Victoria Park is part of a growing national network of playgrounds, awarded for their groundbreaking designs which are setting the standard for true all abilities play.

Council’s Manager Horticulture Services Ian McAlister said being recognised as the first regional Livvi’s Place was an achievement for the Equal Access Playground.

"The Touched by Olivia Foundation’s goal is to have an all abilities to Livvi’s Place standard playground for every child in Australia. Victoria Park is part of this groundbreaking design. It is great to be included as part of this endorsed network."

Designed by renowned landscape architect, Fiona Robbe, the creation of a Livvi’s Place compliant playground means that both visitors and residents in Dubbo and the Central West now have a facility where people of all abilities can play side by side.

Dubbo Mayor Allan Smith, who will officially open the accredited facility, has a personal interest in the playground.

He is a grandfather to Max and coincidentally, Olivia, who has cerebral palsy.

"As a grandparent, I can verify that this is a quality play area for children of all ages and levels of ability," he said.

"I have witnessed first-hand the enjoyment of my own grandchildren - and I think that the child’s fun can also spread to be a pleasant experience for the parents and the rest of the family too."

The official opening will be held at the Equal Access Playground in Victoria Park from 1.30pm on Wednesday 30 March.