Image caption: For Margot Matthews, working on the All Abilities Play Space project, reaps its own rewards.
Helping engineers and architects donate their time to worthwhile community projects is Australia’s Bridge forté, and it is putting its expertise to good work for the All Abilities Play Space project in Dalkeith.
Australia’s Bridge began in Perth in 2014, inspired by the work of Engineers Without Borders Australia. The All Abilities Play Space is one of their first major pro-bono projects.
Wood & Grieve Engineers was introduced to the All Abilities Play Space project in April 2015, and they have been donating their services to the project ever since, offering an opportunity for engineers to be a part of something special.
The Play Space will be an inclusive, state-of-the-art play facility for the whole Perth community to enjoy, regardless of their age or ability.
Australia’s Bridge Chief Executive Officer, Margot Matthews, said she was excited for the project which will be a welcome addition to existing diversity in the City of Nedlands.
“Diversity needs to be embraced by the wider community and the more exposure, the better,” Ms Matthews said.
The All Abilities Play Space will be built on the iconic location of Beaton Park on the picturesque Nedlands foreshore and construction is scheduled to commence in late 2016. Ms Matthews, who is also an engineer, said the location is “gorgeous” and not currently being used to its full potential.
“It can be likened to Synergy Parklands in Kings Park,” she said. “We need to think beyond Nedlands and this kind of space will pull people from all areas.”
Wood & Grieve Sustainability Engineer, Rebecca Dracup said she was passionate about the All Abilities Play Space project as it had the power to promote community spirit.
“By integrating play equipment for a range of abilities, we can improve inclusivity and understanding of others. I think inclusivity from an early age is an important part of a child’s education as it develops empathy, and helps everyone feel like they belong,” Ms Dracup said.
“We can help to promote an understanding that everyone has the right to play and it is something that everyone can enjoy together.”