Dora Houpis
Sensory-sensitive patrons who want to visit the Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre can now download a free app outlining the centre’s sensory features before they go and will soon be able to take time out while at the venue when a new sensory room opens.
The room at the Taylors Road centre will have sensory bags, noise-cancelling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads and is aimed at helping visitors who have sensory issues and feel overwhelmed.
Patrons can also view the centre’s other sensory features via a free app following consultations between Brimbank Council and a leading non-profit American organisation KultureCity which helps individuals, venues and businesses better engage with people with sensory needs.
One in six people, including those with autism, dementia and post-traumatic stress disorder, can experience sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation.
The state-of-the-art Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre in Keilor Downs was opened on 12 September this year, cost more than $60 million and is the first all-electric aquatic centre in Australia.
Its features include a 50-metre, 10-lane Olympic-sized swimming pool, two massive water slides, health club that is open all day, children’s splash park with slides and water features, seven meeting rooms, a café and crèche.
Patrons can download the free KultureCity app on Google Play or Apple Store.
For details on Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre’s sensory-sensitive initiatives and programs go to news.brimbank.vic.gov.au/sensory-inclusive-experience-at-brimbank-aquatic-and-wellness-centre or call the aquatic centre on 9249 4635.
