Accessibility improvements ahead for Ocean Grove

ACCESSIBLE facilities in Ocean Grove are a step closer, with a Darley-based company last week selected to construct a new amenity building on a busy section of the township’s main beach.

Bellarine MP Alison Marchant last Friday announced the tender for a new Changing Places facility, to be located about 150 metres east of the Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club, has been awarded to Three T Construction Group.

Changing Places facilities are designed to cater for those with high support needs who are unable to use standard accessible toilets and to support their participation in the community, including a day out at the beach.

The facilities will be larger than standard accessible toilets, allowing space for two carers to provide assistance, and will include additional features such as a tracking hoist.

“Changing Places enables the local community to access our parks and outdoor areas in a safe and comfortable way, and I’m glad to see one coming to Ocean Grove,” Ms Marchant said.

It will be the second Changing Places facility to be installed on the Bellarine Peninsula, after a similar facility was opened in Portarlington’s Henderson Reserve in December last year.

The Ocean Grove Main Beach facility will be delivered by Barwon Coast, which will contribute $220,000 to the project.

A $180,000 grant from the Victorian government, received by Barwon Coast for the construction of the facility in 2022, will also be put towards the project.

“This new facility will make a real difference to the 326,000 Victorians with high support needs, enabling them to particapate more fully in beach activities and community life,” Barwon Coast Committee of Management chair Sandy Gatehouse said.

Since 2015, the Victorian government has invested $14 million to build Changing Places facilities across the state, including regional and rural Victoria.

Minister for Disability Lizzie Blandthorn highlighted the importance of the investment.

“Accessible facilities are essential to creating an inclusive community for all Victorians and visitors, and we’re proud to support the establishment of another Changing Places site,” she said.