Inclusion - the key part in Tweed’s CBD revamp

By Sarah Waters

Banora Point resident Kyle Sculley, 23, says the one thing that makes him proud is knowing he has played a part in giving back to the community.

Kyle has been a member of Tweed Shire Council’s Equal Access Advisory Committee for fve years.

He has used his voice to help guide the designs of Council’s recreation facilities to create inclusive environments for everyone to enjoy.

Last Friday, he was able to see one of the key projects, he has been involved in, brought to life at the offcial opening of the new youth recreation area at Jack Evans Boat Harbour.

The precinct is stage two of the Tweed Regional Inclusive Parklands, known as Goorimahbah.

It features a skateboard area, basketball key, picnic facilities and striking wildlifethemed art murals, created by two local artists - Michael Shmick and Bundjalung artist Christine Slabb.

Kyle said it gave him a sense of achievement to see the new space offcially opened.

“It’s been very fulflling and very rewarding,” he said.

“A lot of thought and a lot of planning goes into it.

“It’s really important that anyone can come to a park and access the same things as everyone else.”

Kyle has cerebral palsy and depends on a wheelchair at times.

But he has refused to let that defne him and is committed to being a strong advocate for people who have additional needs.

He said society was slowly shifting its language and perspective towards people, who may need extra help in life, and the new youth precinct refected that.

“I personally feel like language is sometimes used that might not be that positive and it’s time for that to change.

“Yes, I do need a wheelchair to get around, so I am a wheelchair user, but that is only one aspect of me.

“It’s about realising that we’ve come to a point where we can come up with better wording - and places - for all members of the community so everyone can feel supported, heard and safe,” he said.

The upgrade of Jack Evans Boat Harbour started last year with the opening of the highly popular and inclusive playground - Livvi’s Place at Goorimahbah Place of Stories.

Further enhancement to Jack Evan’s Boat harbour will begin at the end of the month with the creation of an accessible swimming area for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.

The upgrade is part of Tweed Shire Council’s plans to revitalise its CBD and provide its younger demographic with vibrant and inclusive spaces.

Among the guests at the offcial opening of the youth precinct were Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot, Tweed MP Geoff Provest, Deputy Tweed Mayor Meredith Dennis and offcers from the Tweed Byron Police District.

The Goorimahbah parkland upgrade was funded by the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund, Tweed Council and the NSW Government’s Stronger Communities Fund.