McPherson Park in Bracken Ridge has received a welcome upgrade thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Bracken Ridge Central Lions Club and Brisbane City Council.
Bracken Ridge Ward Councillor Sandy Landers and 11-year-old Hudson had the honour of unveiling a new accessible carousel at the Bracken Ridge Lions Train Day in May.
Cr Landers said she was thrilled to see so many families enjoying the upgraded playground.
“It was the most people I have seen in the park and the feedback was so positive,” she said.
“Hudson’s feedback on the day when he smiled and laughed was the best feedback anyone has given me on any projects I have been fortunate to deliver for our community.
“Hudson and his family are an important part of our community and they have spent hours and hours at McPherson Park at Little Athletics.
“To know that our children like Hudson and others in wheelchairs can also enjoy the park when they visit is such a thrill for all of us.”
The funding for the playground was a joint effort between Council and the Bracken Ridge Central Lions Club. The upgrade also included new pathways and fencing.
All Abilities Playground
Cr Landers said the carousel was designed to accommodate more than one wheelchair and allowed friends to ride together.
“It is important that children of all abilities can play and enjoy our great spaces but importantly that they can interact and play with their siblings and friends,” Cr Landers said.
“I am so passionate about having all-abilities play equipment in our parks and I love working with the Lions Club on projects.”
Louise Gordon, president of the Lion Club, said the idea for the upgrade came about as a way to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Lions in Australia.
“Bracken Ridge Central Lions Club wanted to leave a lasting legacy for residents with an addition of an all-abilities play equipment at the Lions Park,” Louise said. “We reached out to Cr Landers to see if this would be something we could assist with.
“It was wonderful to see Hudson open the playground and enjoy his ride on the all-abilities carousel and we look forward to seeing other families enjoy the park as well.”
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