All-Inclusive New Toilet Block For Darlington Point

Residents and visitors in Darlington Point now have access to a brand-new public toilet facility that is not only conveniently located along the Kidman Way, but is also fully inclusive.

Located in front of the cemetery and opposite the Gum View Cafe, this much-needed facility fills a crucial gap in the town’s infrastructure, providing not only a gender-neutral toilet but also a fully accessible toilet that is suitable for people with high support needs.

Darlington Point resident, Brenda Selover, who cares for her disabled son, described the new facility as fantastic.

“It was most definitely needed in our community,” Ms Selover said.

“It is a beautiful, clean facility that is well designed, with the lift making it ideal for both the disabled person and their carer.

“When you are going through a town, it is really hard to find a suitable and clean toilet.

“This one’s location on the main road makes it easy to find and convenient to access.

“This is also important if the person has a medical incident while at the facility as it’s easily accessible by medical services.”

Murrumbidgee Council Mayor, Ruth McRae said the opening of this much-needed facility was not just about convenience and accessibility, but also about building a more inclusive Murrumbidgee community.

“We are very proud of this facility and the fact that our Council and area are enabling people with high support needs to fully immerse themselves in the community,” Mayor McRae said.

The new facility is equipped with a range of features designed to make it as accessible and use-friendly as possible.

These include:

• A height-adjustable adult-sized change table;
• A ceiling track hoist system;
• A peninsula toilet;
• Additional circulation space (compared to standard accessible toilets); and
• An automatic door.

The new, accessible toilet has been accredited and received an official Statement of Compliance as a dedicated Changing Places facility (suitable for people with high support needs).

It has also been registered on the National Public Toilet Map.

Both toilets within the complex are available 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, but access to the accessible toilet is restricted and requires a Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK) for entry.

Anyone eligible for a MLAK can find more information at www.masterlocksmiths.com.au.

Mayor McRae said Council had plans to build similar facilities in Coleambally and Jerilderie as part of Council’s Change Facility Masterplan.

“Facilities such as these are in integral part of our Disability Inclusion Action Plan, which strives for an inclusive community,” she said.

The Development plan includes car and truck parking.

Temporary parking is available while Council waits for the final design.

The facility was made possible with funding from the Australian Government through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

• Topics:

• Public Works
• Public Services