Council has launched its latest community engagement campaign, the Livingstone Shire Access and Inclusion Consultation which aims to gather feedback on finding better ways to ensure our community is accessible and inclusive.
Mayor Bill Ludwig said Council continues to work towards making our region an accessible and welcoming place to people of all abilities, age groups and backgrounds.
“Council is encouraging residents to participate in-person at two community sessions in Yeppoon and Emu Park from next week, as well as via its latest online engagement platform, Get Involved,” Mayor Ludwig said.
“We want to hear from the community about access and inclusion. Your feedback will be used to inform Council and help us improve on community accessibility by implementing inclusive policies, practices and services.
“One of the more recent examples of Council’s proactive approach to accessibility for all residents is the addition of a water wheelchair at Yeppoon Lagoon. This allows people to be wheeled into the water safely to enjoy the world-class facility.
“Council strived to ensure the Yeppoon Lagoon and foreshore precinct design plans took accessibility and inclusion into consideration, and also worked closely with Capricorn Coast Community Access and Equity Group (CCCAEG).”
Community Councillor Jan Kelly emphasised the need to hear about people’s experiences, including what is and isn’t working within our community.
“This engagement initiative has been introduced so we can work towards Livingstone Shire becoming an inclusive community for all. We also want to hear about initiatives and models that we can use to make it easier for people to participate in community life,” Cr Kelly said.
“The Community Development and Engagement Team will collate responses and develop a report advising Council of the results and recommendations for enhancing or improving access and inclusion across the shire, which is line with Council’s Inclusive Community Policy.”
The online survey via Council’s Get Involved page is open now until 30 November. Visit https://getinvolved.livingstone.qld.gov.au/ to share your feedback.
Alternatively, you can drop in anytime to complete the survey in person at the Open Community Sessions: Yeppoon – Monday, 22 October at the Community Education Room – The Hub – 9.30am to 2.30pm. Emu Park – Wednesday 31 October at Emu Park Cultural Hall – Hill Street – 11.30am to 3.30pm.
What is an accessible community?
An accessible community is where everyone can use the public facilities including: • Getting into buildings • Using the footpaths safely • Enjoying parks and playgrounds • Accessing toilets and change rooms •An accessible community is also one where everybody can find information in a format that is useful to them.
What is an inclusive community? An inclusive community is one where: • People feel valued and included • Everyone can take part in social events, sporting and cultural activities • People have opportunity to work or volunteer.