Glen Innes Severn Council has commenced work on the Community Services Social Infrastructure Upgrades project, supported by a $100,000 grant from Round 5 of the Stronger Country Communities Fund. The initiative aims to enhance community facilities that cater to families and individuals across the region.
The funding will facilitate two key improvements:
- The installation of a shade sail at Council’s Out of School Hours (OOSH) Care facility. This addition will provide all-weather protection for those attending playgroups, parenting classes, OOSH Care, and Vacation Care.
- The creation of a Sensory Garden at Life Choices Support Services (LC-SS), designed to offer a calming and inclusive space for individuals with sensory processing needs. The garden will feature landscaping, turf levelling, a retaining wall, planting, footpaths, and seating.
Glen Innes Severn Council Mayor Margot Davis welcomed the upgrades, highlighting their significance for the community and Council’s commitment to maintaining a family-friendly environment.
“This funding will improve essential facilities that support children and individuals with diverse needs. The addition of a shade sail at our OOSH Care facility ensures compliance with health and safety standards, creating a safer and more comfortable environment for children. Meanwhile, the Sensory Garden will provide valuable therapeutic benefits for individuals with sensory processing needs,” she said.
The LC-SS Sensory Garden is designed to engage all five senses, featuring carefully selected plants, textured surfaces, calming water features, and interactive elements. The space will serve as both a retreat and a hub for sensory learning, development, and mental wellbeing.
Construction of the Sensory Garden began on 10 February 2025, with an expected completion time of 12 weeks. The COLA project is anticipated to be completed by the end of the year.
The Community Services Social Infrastructure Upgrades project is one of three community facility enhancements funded under Round 5 of the Stronger Country Communities Fund, which Glen Innes Severn Council secured in March 2023.
