Earlier this week Wheeling & Able revealed their refurbished holiday unit, which is frequently used by children with disabilities and their families.

The $20,000 makeover was made possible through a grant from the Annie Danks Trust and included new decorative furnishings including wall art, blinds and bedding as well as a designated kids play corner with a blackboard wall. For the mums and dads, there are upgraded kitchen fittings, an outdoor setting and an accessible vanity in the main bathroom.

Wheeling & Able Executive Officer, Karen Phillips, said that the organisation had acquired this unit over 14 years ago and it is utilised for a minimum of 42 weeks a year.

“It’s a unique holiday experience for families as they don’t need to bring specialised equipment such as bedding, lifters, shower chairs as this home away from home is not only accessible it has a range of equipment necessary to support the requirement of a child with high or special needs,” Karen said.

“This grant plus donations of equipment from The Rotary Club of Wallsend / Maryland, Harleys 4 Humanity and Alder Park Ladies Bowling Club have been truly welcomed by the children and families ‚Äì many of which have no alternative than to have their annual family holiday here at Corlette where needs are met for every family member.

“These renovations not only continue to provide families with a wonderful holiday experience but now in a welcoming, relaxed and fully fitted accommodation that is provided by Wheeling & Able at a subsidised cost to registered clients.”

Bob Baldwin, Federal Member for Paterson and Jeni White, Chair of the Wheeling & Able Board officially opened the refurbishment and invited attendees to take of tou of the facility.

Wheeling & Able provides assistance to children and young people with physical disabilities. The Organisation was founded in 1932 and now has branches in Newcastle, Cessnock, Singleton and on the Central Coast.