City of Moreton Bay Council has celebrated a $3.8 million accessible amenities and Changing Places facility upgrade at Bluey and Jean Piva Park, Woorim Beach, saying it will give people with disabilities easier access and a more inclusive day at the beach with family and friends.
Mayor, Peter Flannery said Woorim Beach was the perfect location for the new facility, with existing beach mats and upgraded amenities helping people with high support needs enjoy the coastline comfortably.
“Experiencing the beautiful beaches of Moreton Bay is an integral part of life in our City, and thanks to the SEQ City Deal, this upgrade at Woorim Beach makes one of our most popular destinations more accessible through our Changing Places Network Plan,” Mayor Flannery said.
“We want City of Moreton Bay to be the most accessible city in Queensland.
“We’re the first local government in Australia to implement a dedicated network plan to deliver Changing Places facilities, ensuring dignified and comfortable amenities for everyone.
“This upgrade forms part of the many upgrades in Bongaree and Woorim through the SEQ City Deal partnership, highlighting the strong collaboration between local, state, and federal governments to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
“We’re thrilled to see the community enjoying these modern amenities. This block has been thoughtfully designed to reflect the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Bribie Island, complementing the stunning landscape we’re so fortunate to have here in Moreton Bay.”
Key features include:
- A Changing Places facility designed for people with high support needs;
- Self-service lockers with two free hireable beach wheelchairs and one beach wheely walker;
- Accessible showers, change rooms and toilets to accommodate all visitors.
Senator Corinne Mulholland said Queensland’s beaches should be places everyone can enjoy comfortably, independently, and safely, no matter their physical ability.
“City of Moreton Bay should be recognised as a Council that’s genuinely leading the way with a focus on improving accessibility,” she said.
“Good design not only improves liveability, it also makes good business sense, and there’s also a huge tourism and economic opportunity here to promote Woorim as a beach that’s accessible to everyone.
“From seniors to people living with disabilities, and families wrestling with prams, or anyone struggling to find changing rooms or amenities – thoughtful design really matters!
“With Brisbane 2032 on the horizon, this kind of investment sets Moreton Bay apart for providing accessible, welcoming public spaces in iconic locations right on Brisbane’s doorstep.”
Deputy Premier of Queensland, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, and Minister for Industrial Relations, Jarrod Bleijie said the project reflects the State’s commitment to inclusive public spaces.
“We’re pleased to deliver inclusive infrastructure to popular destinations across Queensland so visitors of all abilities can have a more enjoyable experience and benefit from a more liveable state.”
Member for Pumicestone, Ariana Doolan said the new facility at Woorim is a game changer for the City of Moreton Bay from an accessibility point of view.
“This upgrade opens up opportunities for all families and visitors to enjoy Woorim Beach together, regardless of ability and ensures people living with disability can access beach with dignity, comfort and confidence,” Ms Doolan said.
Division 1 Councillor, Brooke Savige said the new facility is just one of the many exciting upgrades happening on Bribie Island.
“Bribie Island is the place to be if you’re looking for free activities to enjoy with family or friends, and making Woorim Beach more inclusive is just the start,” Cr Savige said.
“The renewal of the Bongaree Jetty, the Bribie Island shared pathway upgrade, and the new amenities at the Bribie Island Memorial Gardens provides an important pit stop along this improved route and are all set to bring new life to this beloved part of our City.”
This project is funded by City of Moreton Bay and the SEQ Liveability Fund. The Fund is a commitment in the SEQ City Deal, a partnership between the Australian and Queensland Governments, and the Council of Mayors (South East Queensland).
Find out more about City of Moreton Bay’s accessible beaches.
