THE first stage of a special education playground for Tomaree Public School has given students a taste for what’s to come.
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Children with a range of disabilities have taken quickly to the undercover sandpit and can’t wait for colourful, more accessible and safer playground.
“I’m hoping it will be finished by the end of term four so that the students can enjoy it for years to come,” Tomaree P&C vice president Trudie Blachford said.
“I can’t wait to see the dream become reality.”
Mrs Blachford’s daughter, Lucy, has cerebral palsy and epilepsy. The Year 1 student is just one of the children to benefit from the $70,000 playground when finished.
The playground will be leveled as part of the upgrade and topped with a mixture of synthetic grass, buffalo turf and soft-fall rubber.
The plan includes bright colours to stimulate their young minds, a river bed with fish for learning and a hop scotch court to work on coordination.
Portable play equipment will top it all off.
The sandpit was upgraded with free labour and supplies from SS & LM Johnston Earthmoving and Hunter Valley Concrete Pumps.
Salamander Bay Recycling, Amcal Chemist Salamander Bay, Nelson Bay Real Estate, Koala Shores Port Stephens, Soldiers Point Bowling Club, White Sands Bistro Soldiers Point Bowling Club, All Saints Church, Orrosme Cakes and Arteke Hair and Beauty, have helped with donations that have topped $15,000.
That’s come on top of a $50,000 state government grant in the form of a Community Building Partnership grant.
“We will need another $7000 to complete it,” Mrs Blachford said.
“These children have various disabilities including epilepsy, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, west syndrome, global developmental delays, autism, and social and behavioural problems so it’s going to a good cause,” she said.
“This playground will allow these children to play in a safe environment, to improve their physical and social skills, and will put many smiles on many faces, including students, staff and parents.”
Mrs Blachford received an Education Week Award last Thursday for her outstanding contribution to Tomaree Public School as a community member for the playground design.
“My daughter Lucy is in the special ed unit so it is my dream to see a magical playground come to fruition for all these beautiful children,” she said.
People who wish to donate to the playground can donate to Tomaree Public School directly or call Trudie Blachford on 0402 838 084.
