Theatre and pool give carers free entry

The Peninsula Theatre and Peninsula Leisure Centre are now accepting Companion Cards to allow free entry for carers of people living with a profound disability.

The two local facilities are among the Gosford Council owned and operated amenities to accept the card system from August 3.

The card will allow people living with a profound disability who require a carer at events and venues, to enter without having to pay for a second ticket for their attendant.

The Companion Card was introduced by the State Government and is an initiative that has been providing those who need a carer with the opportunity to use facilities they may not have been able to afford in the past.

Gosford mayor Cr Chris Holstein said the initiative would provide the opportunity for those with a disability to use community facilities without breaking their budget.

"The Companion Card is a fantastic initiative which has made access to community programs and assets more affordable for people with a disability," Cr Holstein said.

"Gosford Council is a strong supporter of the Companion Card and we will be urging other businesses and venues to get on board and help support those in our community who have a disability."

Council's manager of customer service and communications Mr John Mouland said the Companion Card was another way council was dedicated to improving its customer service.

"The Companion Card provides an opportunity for us as a council to improve service to all of our customers and promotes accessibility of our facilities to those with a disability," Mr Mouland said.

"The Companion Card program will open many doors for people with a disability and their carers who may have been previously unable to access social activities in the community."

For more information or to apply for a Companion Card, visit www.nswcompanioncard.org.au or contact council's disability services officer Ms Ainslie Whitburn on 4325 8109.

Press release, 28 Jul 2010 Gosford Council Media