YP Coordination Attends Copper Coast Council’s Community Consultation on Disability Access and Inclusion

At YP Coordination, we’re committed to fostering a community where everyone feels included and has access to the support they need.

Recently, we had the pleasure of attending the Copper Coast Council’s community consultation workshops, focused on the development of their Disability Access and Inclusion Plan. These workshops were an incredible opportunity to discuss the council’s current efforts in disability access and explore areas for improvement.

The event highlighted several areas where the Copper Coast is doing well. Connectivity between the towns has improved, thanks to the expanding bicycle trails, which are also frequently used by individuals with mobility scooters and gophers, ensuring more accessible transport options between communities. Many local facilities across the Yorke Peninsula, such as libraries, schools, art galleries, CCSLC, and even some beaches, have also seen significant upgrades in accessibility. Queen Square in Moonta has undergone a successful transformation, and the Kadina hub now boasts paved paths, improved access to businesses, and new pedestrian crossings. Wallaroo pathways have tactile tiles to aid individuals with vision impairments. Furthermore, the creation of the Copper Coast Council’s Disability Discrimination Act Committee showcases a proactive approach to addressing these challenges.

Mayor Roslyn Talbot’s involvement in the workshops was particularly inspiring. Her passion for enhancing disability access across the region is a testament to her leadership and vision for an inclusive Copper Coast.

There were also areas noted for improvement. In Moonta, accessibility to shops and businesses on the main street remains a challenge, particularly for wheelchair users at the medical centre. Another key area was the strong need for more accessible playgrounds; the current sand and gravel in playgrounds can make them difficult to navigate with wheelchairs, and there's a call for more accessible play equipment. Participants also raised concerns about kerbing for wheelchairs, the promotion of accessible venues and spaces, and the need for accessible shuttles and transport between towns. The importance of community options for home meal and medicine delivery, as well as more social events that are inclusive for everyone, was another significant point.

There’s also a push for more accessible and supportive employers to provide opportunities for people with disabilities, ensuring they can find meaningful work and contribute to the community.

We were honoured to be joined by several local community members living with disabilities, Baptcare Local Area Coordinator, several Copper Coast Council staff and councillors, members of the Copper Coast Disability Discrimination Act Committee, Access4U, YP Country Times, and many dedicated disability support workers and family members of people with disabilities.

The consultation workshops saw an impressive turnout from a variety of community members, each contributing valuable perspectives. These voices are essential as the council continues to refine its strategies and implement positive changes across the Copper Coast. You can also have your say and contribute your valuable feedback by completing this survey: Disability Access and Inclusion in your area Survey (surveymonkey.com) before 1st of November 2024.