Disabled-friendly basket swing stolen from Breeza Park

BREEZA residents have been left devastated and frustrated after an accessible swing basket was stolen from its local park.

Breeza Progress has appealed for the return of the specially-installed swing, which was designed to be used by children and adults with disabilities.

The village’s progress association had previously undertaken a fundraising campaign to raise $18,000 to replace an older swing set that had been removed by Gunnedah Shire Council as it had reached the end of its service life.

Progress association president Phil Newell said the group has been determined to ensure the facility caters for everyone.

“Breeza Progress undertook its own fundraising campaign to purchase the replacement swing set without financial assistance from the council,” he said.

“The theft has had a significant impact because the basket swing was specifically chosen to provide inclusive play experience for children and people living with disabilities.

“Its loss means many members of the community have been deprived of equipment that was intended to be accessible to everyone.”

The Breeza community is hopeful that whoever took the basket swing will recognise its importance and do the right thing by returning it.

Residents are also asking anyone who may have information about the theft or the location of the basket swing to come forward and assist in having the equipment returned to Breeza Park.

Community members say the playground represents the hard work and generosity of local residents who raised the funds to create an inclusive space where all children can play together.