News in brief
QPAC becomes more wheelchair-friendly
The Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) has undergone a $34.7 million facelift including upgraded theatres, new food and beverage outlets and improved facilities for people with a disability. Included are more centrally located seating choices for people in wheelchairs and improved accessibility for all patrons throughout the venue.
Seniors Card transport concessions go national
Queensland Seniors Card holders can now access public transport concessions when they are interstate, thanks to a national agreement between the Commonwealth Government, states and territories to offer transport concessions to all Seniors Card holders across Australia. For information on Queensland Government concessions for seniors call 13 13 04.
Counselling for kids
Confidential web counselling is now available at Kids Helpline.
If you're not sure about talking to someone on the phone, or can't get to
a phone, you can use web counselling. Kids Helpline is a free, confidential and anonymous telephone and online counselling service for young people aged five to 25.
Reading to children
More than 150 volunteer seniors are reading to children in libraries, playgroups and parks as part of the Reading to Children initiative coordinated by The Smith Family in partnership with the Centre for Community Child Health. Bringing children into contact with reading early in life enhances their language development, and literacy skills, and helps instil a love of reading. For information call 3308 9326.
Test drive the arts
If you have never been to a show or it is three years since you last went to the theatre, you have the chance to test drive the arts for free! Test drive the arts gives you the chance to choose from a range of shows from Queensland's leading performing arts venues and companies. Register for your free tickets online.
Violence prevention awards
The 2009 Domestic and Family Violence award winners have been announced. The awards recognise and reward innovation and best practice by dedicated people and organisations working towards the prevention of domestic and family violence in Queensland. For details of the award winners in the six categories visit www.communities.qld.gov.au/violenceprevention/awards
New website for wheelies
Wheelies.net.au is a new homeswapping site for wheelchair users where they can register their houses to be swapped for holidays they know will be low cost and will be in suitable accommodation with the right facilities. This new online service has been developed by Sharon Lennox and Harry Wilsdon who are both living with multiple sclerosis. The site includes a real estate section where people can list and find properties that have been built or modified to be disability-friendly.
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