November 9 2007

A children's playroom at Vision Australia's Sydney centre received a well-earned makeover in October courtesy of a group of Laing O'Rourke volunteers.

They joined volunteers from 180TC (our corporate charity), the Heyday Group and Salex to transform the Vision Australia's Children's Sensory Playroom into a modern, bright space for the centre's youngest clients.

Within hours walls came down, doors were moved, equipment installed, a toy library set up and new paint applied.

The new playroom will not only be a fun space for children with low or no vision, it will also help them develop skills through the use of touch and sound.

Vision Australia occupational therapist Anna McCauley said the 10-year-old playroom had been in need of a revamp for a long time.

"The layout of the room is now more versatile and fresh so we're itching to make the playroom available to more children and their families," she said.

Corporate OHS Risk Manager Matthew Lloyd summed up the feeling of all those involved in the makeover.

"Our volunteer team will have fond memories from today, but we're sure the real smiles will be on the faces of the children and families who get to use the room for years to come."

The room renovation was a way of thanking Vision Australia who have partnered with Laing O'Rourke on our Eye Safety Program.

"The Sensory Playroom refurb is a way we can extend our thanks for their involvement in our campaign," Matthew said.