Work has begun on Glenn Innes Severn Council’s Community Services Social Infrastructure Upgrades project, thanks to a $100,000 investment from the Federal Stronger Country Communities grant.
The project aims to enhance community facilities that support families and individuals in the region.
This funding will help deliver two key upgrades:
- The installation of a shade sail at Council’s Out of School Hours (OOSH) Care facility, that will provide all-weather protection for the community who attend playgroups, parenting classes, OOSH Care and Vacation care
- The development of a Sensory Garden at Life Choices Support Services (LC-SS), designed to provide a calming, inclusive space for individuals with sensory processing needs. The LC-SS Sensory Garden will include landscaping, levelling and relaying of turf, a retaining wall, planting, footpath and seating
Glen Innes Severn Council Mayor, Margot Davis, welcomed the projects, emphasising their positive impact on the community and Council’s ongoing commitment to making Glen Innes a family-friendly place to live.
“This funding will improve essential facilities that support children and individuals with diverse needs,” Mayor Davis said.
“The addition of a shade cover at our OOSH Care facility ensures compliance with health and safety standards, creating a safer and more comfortable environment for children. Meanwhile, the Sensory Garden will provide valuable therapeutic benefits for individuals with sensory processing needs.
“Council remains dedicated to enhancing community infrastructure that fosters inclusivity, safety and wellbeing – ensuring Glen Innes continues to be a welcoming and supportive place for families to live, work and thrive.”
The LC-SS Sensory Garden will be a purpose-built space designed to engage all five senses, featuring carefully selected plants, textured surfaces, calming water features and interactive elements. This space will serve as a soothing retreat and community hub that supports sensory learning, development and mental wellbeing.
Construction of the LC-SS Sensory Garden commenced on 10 February 2025, with an expected completion timeline of 12 weeks. The shade sail project is anticipated to be finalised by the end of 2025.
The Community Services Social Infrastructure Upgrades project is one of three community facility upgrades funded under Round 5 of the Stronger Country Communities Fund, secured by Glen Innes Severn Council in March 2023.
