Three-year-old Lucas has cerebral palsy and uses a walker to get around, but is often left frustrated by inaccessible play equipment and the soft-form mulch that can get stuck in his wheels and make it difficult for him to move. 

The Tamworth Adventure Playground will cater to the needs of children with disabilities, but it needs volunteers – as well as extra funding for rubber surfacing – to become a reality. 

Though the majority of the park’s accessible features have been fully funded, children with mobility aids will struggle to reach the play equipment without the presence of smooth surfaces. 

Tamworth Adventure Playground committee president Charles Impey said the rubber surfacing was “vital”, and, though they had received a quote to the tune of $400,000, it was possible to achieve level surfacing for $250,000 through a combination of rubber and concrete.

Mr Impey said the committee had been promised $100,000 from Shenhua Watermark, but was still lobbying the federal government for funds. 

Mrs Filby said it would be empowering for Lucas to be able to move around for himself and make choices about his activities. 

As the volunteer co-ordinator for the Tamworth Adventure Playground committee, she has urged people to volunteer their time and skills to build the park over six days, from October 21-26.

Although there has been a strong show of interest, she said she needed volunteers to register for shifts and roles to ensure construction went smoothly. 

“We’re looking for people for all days, but especially those who can help during the week,” Mrs Filby said.

People interested in volunteering should contact Mrs Filby on 0427 000 633.