Shire seeks CAIRG members from Karridale/Augusta area

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River is seeking new members for its Community Access and Inclusion Reference Group (CAIRG), a community based reference group for consultation on access and inclusion issues within the region. CAIRG membership is open to members of the public who may themselves experience barriers or have an interest in access and inclusion for people with a disability, seniors, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, Aboriginal Australians and other groups.  Shire Community Development Officer Katie Taylor said she is particularly hoping for new members from Karridale to Augusta and surrounds, and/or people living with a disability. “The group’s existing membership is predominantly from Margaret River, Cowaramup and Gnarabup/Prevelly,” she said. “We really hope to get some new members to represent the south of the Shire as the demographics, facilities and services are quite variable between the different townsites. “The Shire can assist with travel costs for those experiencing difficulty accessing transport to attend the quarterly meetings.” Ms Taylor said the key role of the CAIRG is to identify barriers to people accessing and being involved with Shire services, events, buildings, facilities, information, communication, employment and opportunities to participate in the community, and to develop strategies aimed at reducing these barriers. “Shire staff attend the meetings and consult with the CAIRG on various projects and developments such as new or upgrades to Shire infrastructure, services and facilities. “It’s a valuable platform for people that may experience barriers to access and inclusion to have their voices heard and ensures that Shire services are adaptive and responsive to community needs.” “The CAIRG is a useful forum for information sharing, providing feedback and advice on access and inclusion matters and acts as an advocacy group to improve the social wellbeing of our community, creating a welcoming and inclusive place to live, play, work and visit.”

The first CAIRG meeting for 2019 will be held: Wednesday 13 February 10 – 11.30am Mainbreak Meeting Room Shire of Augusta Margaret River Civic Administration Centre Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River

Interested community members can contact Shire Community Development Officer Katie Taylor on 9780 5255 or by email at [email protected]