Construction of the Changing Places accessible change room and toilet will start this month at the Former Winchelsea Shire Hall.
Changing Places are equipped with an adult-size change table, ceiling hoist and enough space to meet the needs of people with high physical support needs, and their carers. A contractor has been appointed to build the facility on the east side of the Former Shire Hall, with works expected to be completed by mid-December.
Surf Coast Shire Council and the Victorian Government are partnering to build two Changing Places facilities, with another under construction in Anglesea.
“Ultimately these Changing Places are helping us fulfill our goal of creating an inclusive community where everyone can participate, by supporting people with high physical care needs,” Winchelsea Ward Cr James McIntyre said.
Mayor Rose Hodge welcomed the Changing Places being incorporated into the hall.
“It’s heartening to know that both locals and visitors to Winchelsea will have access to a facility that can be used by people of all abilities,” Cr Hodge said.
At its 23 July 2019 meeting, Council endorsed the community aspiration for the Former Shire Hall to become the Winchelsea Cultural Centre.
Key steps taken since the meeting include:
- Council has been recruiting for a new dedicated person to support that aspiration over the next 12 months.
- The Community Working Group has helped Council establish the best timing for internal and external painting and maintenance to ‘freshen up’ the building.
- The group has been involved in early discussions on topics such as the process for future leasing agreements and the interior layout.
- Discussions between Council and the Community House on options for managing the building into the future.
- Continued use of the building by the WYLD (Winchelsea Youth Leisure Drop-in) youth group.
