A specialised facility, Changing Places® Restrooms provide suitable cubicles for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets.

Gladstone Region Deputy Mayor Chris Trevor said the Lions Park facility is an accredited Changing Places® facility in Australia and would allow people with high support needs to enjoy the day-to-day activities many of us take for granted.

“This facility is a first for the Gladstone Region and a great step towards building an inclusive community,” Councillor Trevor said.

“Lions Park is a fantastic community play and recreation space that the entire community can enjoy, catering for people of all ages and abilities.”

Features of the Changing Places® Restroom include a toilet pan; an adult-sized electric height adjustable change table; a ceiling hoist; sufficient space; and a safe, clean environment.

To protect the facility from misuse or vandalism, the facility will be accessed by a registered Master Locksmiths Access Key (MLAK). This is a master key that fits into specifically designed locks allowing 24/7 access to a network of public toilets nationwide.

Council will provide MLAK keys, free of charge, to local community organisations/service providers to distribute.

Keys can be collected from Council’s Community Engagement Centre, 142 Goondoon Street, Gladstone.

More information on the MLAK keys can be found via the Changing Places website https://changingplaces.org.au/mlak

For more information, contact the Community Engagement Centre on 4976 6300.