25 September 2020

People with a disability and their carers travelling in the Port Stephens area will find life a little easier this October school holidays with a Marveloo facility installed at Twelve Mile Creek rest area on the Pacific Highway, north of Raymond Terrace.

Acting Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the trial of the fully accessible portable restroom and adult change facility would allow families to plan trips in the area without the need to take large detours in a statewide first.

“We have disabled toilet facilities right across our state network and there are more being rolled out every month, but it has been raised by the community that there’s a need for adult change facilities, and we’re doing something about that,” Mr Toole said.

“The Marveloo facility is a portable adult change and restroom facility which provides people with disability a dignified and appropriate space as they travel around NSW.

“The installation of Marveloo at Twelve Mile Creek is a first on our state road network, and we’re keen to see the community give feedback on how they find it so we have a good argument for rolling more out across NSW in the future.”

Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Gareth Ward said the facility, available until October 21, would allow people with disability and their carers to be confident they can attend to personal care safely during their journeys, with comfort and dignity.

“The Marveloo at the Twelve Mile Creek rest area features an overhead ceiling hoist, a height adjustable adult change table and a fully accessible toilet,” Mr Ward said.

“There are also curtains for extra privacy, an access ramp, automatic door, heating and cooling and an external sun shade.

“Disability Inclusion Action Plans create a framework for Government agencies and councils to create more inclusive and accessible communities, and this is another great example of them in use.”

Transport for NSW Fleet Services Project Manager Thomas Smillie said convenience and location were the main reasons for choosing the Twelve Mile Creek rest area.

“It’s located approximately two hours north of Sydney and provides a good rest break for people on their journeys, while able to provide support for their loved ones,” Mr Smillie said.

The Marveloo concept was developed in Victoria by Don Di Giandomenico from Maroondah City Council.

Don was inspired by his wife Angela and daughter Jessica, who has cerebral palsy, to undertake the extensive work to design and develop the project.

This new initiative is being trialled by Transport for NSW to improve travel options for the whole of the NSW community.