Changing Places facility in Gisborne now open

Published on 01 November 2019

An accessible Changing Places facility and two unisex public toilets at Jacksons Creek Reserve in Gisborne are now available for public use.

The new facility is within easy access of the Gisborne Aquatic Centre and the reserve’s adventure playground with accessible Liberty Swing.

The complex was officially opened on 24 October by Mayor, Cr Janet Pearce and Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas. The facility will help to ensure that people with disabilities, and their carers and families are able to participate in activities, outings and events in the community. Residents and visitors will be able to use the facility.

Changing Places facilities are larger than standard accessible toilets, and have extra features and more space to meet the needs of people with a disability and their carers. Each facility has a height adjustable, adult-sized changing bench, a tracking hoist system, space for two people and a safe and clean environment.

The Changing Places facility will be able to be accessed with an MLAK key. This type of key enables entry 24 hours a day, seven days a week to certain toilet facilities across Australia and also to Liberty Swings. An MLAK key can be obtained through Master Locksmiths Australia People who do not have a key and wish to use the Changing Places facility can obtain a key at the Gisborne Aquatic Centre during opening hours. The aquatic centre is located next to the reserve.

The project was jointly funded by Council ($150,000) and a Victorian Government Changing Places grant ($100,000).