By BRIDGET COOK
WHEN Pakenham business owner Adam Lowndes read about the potential development of a Touched by Olivia Foundation inclusive playspace in Casey, it struck a chord with him.
His daughter’s name is Olivia and she has special needs.
That is why last week, Mr Lowndes donated $5000 from his business Pro Plumb to ensure that ‘Livvi’s Place’ can go ahead in the Marriott Waters Recreation Reserve, Lyndhurst.
MediBank Community Fund and SITA also donated money towards the project at a celebration event for the playspace held on Friday.
The Touched by Olivia Foundation is working with the City of Casey to develop the playspace, to be the only one of its kind in this region.
Inclusive playspaces provide play opportunities for children of all abilities to play side by side.
While there will be the usual swings and slides, every aspect of the design will consider the special needs of children with a disability.
Local resident and project champion Therese Howell has been the catalyst behind making Livvi’s Place happen.
Ms Howell, whose son Jack has a disability, urged other business to get on board so they can ensure the play space reaches its full potential.
“A Livvi’s Place in Casey will be a place for families with children of all ages, stages and abilities to meet, socialise, connect with their community and make new friendships in a safe and play filled environment,” she said.
“I’m very proud that the City of Casey have agreed that Casey needs a Livvi’s Place and I’m very much looking forward to watching our playspace develop.
“At the moment we have $274,000 confirmed towards the project.
“We would like to raise at least $700,000, which would give us a reasonably good playspace with excellent access and equipment for people of all abilities.
“If we can reach close to $1 million, then when could create a truly amazing space with a larger fenced area and other things that are just out of the budget at the moment.
“But I can confirm that this will definitely go ahead now.
“It’s not an idea anymore, it’s going to happen.”
Ms Howell said the play space would incorporate things like a kite flying hill, be secure and fenced in and have a wheelchair accessible carousel.
Mr Lowndes said he decided to support the playspace for a number of reasons.
“I read about this in the paper and it caught my eye because my daughter’s name is Olivia and she has special needs,” he said.
“It’s something that hits home with me and my family.
“But I also run a successful company and we are always looking for opportunities to give back.
“I think that this is a fantastic way to contribute to bring people of all abilities in the area enjoyment and it will give those who support it great satisfaction.”
Businesses wishing to donate towards the project can do so by calling Rebecca Ho on 0414 506 606 or emailing rebecca.ho@touchedbyolivia.com.au.
Construction is expected to start by December this year, with the playspace open for play in early 2015.
