Variety – the Children’s Charity of Queensland in association Variety Bash Car Aussie Rock, Ormiston College and Redland City Council have come together to fund a Variety Liberty Swing in the Raby Bay Foreshore Park on Masthead Drive, with the official unveiling taking place on Thursday 7 August 2014, the day before the XXXX Gold Variety Bash departs Brisbane for their 10 day adventure south.
The swing, known as a ‘Variety Liberty Swing’ is a part of Variety – the Children’s Charity Liberty Swing Program which aims to install swings in areas where there is a great need, allowing children with intellectual or physical impairments, in particular those who mobilise through the use of a wheelchair, the chance to enjoy the simple pleasure of swinging in the air.
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The Liberty Swing costs $25,000 plus installation fees that may be incurred.
One of the key contributors to the Cleveland Variety Liberty Swing project is Stephen Whittam, a Variety supporter and a Variety Bash participant since 2009.
“This Variety Liberty Swing in Cleveland will benefit the community in a number of ways. It will not only provide enjoyment for special needs kids but also serves a therapeutic purpose as well,” said Stephen.
“We’re encouraging everyone to come to Raby Bay Foreshore Park on the Thursday to see the unveiling and also to check out some of the Variety Bash cars that are in town for the famous Variety Bash,” Stephen said.
Programs Manager at Variety Queensland Samantha Shumack said it’s always an exciting time when Variety – the Children’s Charity is able to install a Liberty Swing.
“Variety, at last count, has 176 Liberty Swings installed in playgrounds and special schools around Australia and every time we’re able to fund another it brings such joy to the whole Variety team knowing how many children will benefit.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said Council was pleased to be part of such a worthy project by providing a location for the Liberty Swing, as well as upgrading the Raby Bay Foreshore Park.
“Situated on beautiful Raby Bay, this location is one of the most picturesque in the Redlands so this project will provide an all abilities swing at a beautiful location overlooking the beach,” she said.
“Council has also invested $62,000 in upgrading Raby Bay Foreshore Park, including improving disability access to toilets.”
Variety – the Children’s Charity of Queensland is dedicated to empowering Queensland children who are sick, disadvantaged or who have special needs to LIVE, LAUGH and LEARN. To find out more or to donate please visit www.variety.org.au/qld/donate
KEY FACTS FOR CLEVELAND VARIETY LIBERTY SWING OPENING
What: Official Opening and first use of the Cleveland Variety Liberty Swing – including a FREE SAUSAGE SIZZLE!
Where: Raby Bay Foreshore Park, Masthead Drive (adjacent to the corner of Portsmouth Place) Cleveland
Date: Thursday 7 August at 2pm
