Playground has kids in a spin

An Ability Whirl playground carousel has been installed at the Busselton Foreshore, allowing children with disabilities to join in at the playground for the first time.

Sharon Monk, whose daughter Clair is in a wheelchair, has been working with the Access and Inclusion Committee on the project for a couple of years.

“I guess the biggest opportunity we can give our kids is to be able to do normal things and this carousel allows people with physical disabilities to join in with the playground fun and not just look on from the sidelines,” she said.

The Ability Whirl can be enjoyed by children of varying abilities, with fold out seats for those who are not so steady on their feet, and features room for two wheelchairs, as well as standing room and bars to hold on to.

Fitted flush to the ground, the roundabout is easily accessed by wheelchairs and pushchairs and has two enclosed stations with locking gates which provide security and support for wheelchair users.

“Joining in really is as important a part of the experience as actually experiencing the motion, other kids laughing and squealing around Clair is just so much fun,” Ms Monk said.

“To be able to have something like the carousel in our home town and not have to travel through to Bunbury as we have done in the past means that we can not only do it more often, but do it with family and friends.”

City of Busselton Mayor Ian Stubbs said it was important upgrades to the Busselton foreshore catered for all members the community.

“The Ability Whirl ensures children who, for whatever reason, may struggle with conventional play equipment, can join in the fun down at the foreshore,” he said.

“It’s great to see the equipment being received with such enthusiasm by locals and visitors — it’s a fantastic addition to the foreshore.”