By MELISSA MEEHAN
Improved access is something to sing about…
COOKING, karaoke and education – it’s not a bad checklist of things that the Emerald Community House can do thanks to its accessibility upgrades.
A group of community representatives is working with the council to increase accessibility for all residents called The Cardinia Disability Advisory Committee (CDAC).
CDAC collaborates closely with Cardinia Council and the community to secure improved access and inclusion for all community members, especially those with disabilities.
It focuses on areas such as policy development, awareness raising, advocacy and advice to ensure that the shire’s services and facilities meet everyone’s needs.
Formed in 2005, the committee has 11 members comprising three residents, three community group representatives, three disability sector representatives and two councillors.
Last week Mayor Brett Owen visited the ECH to check out the upgrades.
“The committee works with council to ensure Cardinia Shire is a welcoming and inclusive place for the one in five people living with disability in our community,” he said.
“The group advocates for upgrades of council facilities, pathways and walking tracks, and supports council in building partnerships with community organisations and businesses.
“It also acts as a watchdog to ensure council meets its legal obligations around disability access.”
Committee member Sharyn Thomas said the upgrades were terrific.
“The kitchen is great, and the hall can be used for so many things,” she said.
“My daughter Tanya runs karaoke nights and it’s just a wonderful space.
CDAC’s chairperson and Vision Australia representative Bob Deayton said the committee was always looking for ways to improve accessibility in the shire.
“For example, wheelchairs were recently made available at Pakenham Hall, library and U3A thanks to the group’s advocacy,” Mr Deayton said.
“We are currently advising and supporting council’s review of its Disability Access and Inclusion Policy and implementation plan.”
Mr Deayton said the committee is keen to hear from community members regarding the accessibility of services and facilities in Cardinia Shire.
“All are welcome to attend the committee’s upcoming AGM, and our regular monthly meetings,” Mr Deayton said.
CDAC meetings take place on the third Wednesday of each month at Services Central, 6B Henry Street, Pakenham, from 10am to noon.
Its AGM will be held at the Cardinia Cultural Centre on Wednesday 18 September at 10am.
Three positions on the Cardinia Disability Advisory Committee are renewed each year.
To inquire about joining the committee or to provide feedback on disability access in the shire, contact the council’s community strengthening team on 1300 787 624 or c.strengthening@cardinia.vic.gov.au.
