Augusta Margaret River shire recognised as a leader in access and inclusion with sixth consecutive award win

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River has been recognised for its commitment to accessibility and inclusion, receiving praise for its recreation centre upgrades. The shire was announced the winner of the Major Infrastructure Over $1 million Award at the 2024 Most Accessible Communities in WA Awards on December 5, marking the sixth consecutive year it was awarded for its efforts. The award category celebrates local governments who have built new or upgraded buildings which go above and beyond Australian standards and have design features that specifically consider people with disability. Shire president Julia Meldrum said since the Margaret River Recreation Centre, Nala Waabi Mi, reopened in April, shire staff had been committed to further improving access and inclusion for all community members through several initiatives. These included providing swim school staff with more training to improve lessons for neurodivergent participants, piloting a dedicated swimming program for students who are culturally and linguistically diverse, running a dedicated aqua-inflatable event for young neurodivergent people in the home-school community and offering a dedicated Friday evening social and recreational program for young people. One of the key upgrades to the facility was the region’s first certified Changing Places facility, which includes an automated door and shower, accessible hand washing facility, roof-mounted hoists, a height-adjustable adult changing table, an accessible toilet and circulation space. The need for the facility was originally acknowledged through the shire’s Inclusive Communities Advisory Network, which noted the nearest facility was more than 100km away in Bunbury. Regular recreation centre user Monika — who is visually impaired — said the refurbishment had been “wonderful” for her. “They have really done their homework on the safety aspects, and it’s very easy to get around,” she said. “The staff have been brilliant at explaining everything and accommodating me when I visit the centre. “I can’t say enough praise about the place. They’ve really put thought into it and it’s working for me.” Disability Services Minister Don Punch said the 2024 winners had delivered some incredible projects and programs to help build accessible communities. “By recognising and celebrating our local governments, which are putting accessibility and inclusivity at the core of their service delivery, we can encourage a real movement that sees tangible results and better outcomes for all West Australians,” he said.