Albury, NSW - Students, families and staff at Aspect Riverina School, Albury campus are celebrating the official opening of the school’s newly upgraded playgrounds and outdoor learning spaces, designed to create safe, inclusive and accessible environments for students on the autism spectrum.
The event also marks the official opening of the school’s Brewer Building by Judy Brewer AO, a Life Member of Aspect and former Patron of the organisation. Judy and her late husband, the Hon. Tim Fischer AC, served as Aspect’s inaugural Patrons from 2000 to 2006. The building was named in recognition of Judy’s long-standing contribution to autism advocacy and her family’s deep connection to the autism community, including her son, who is on the autism spectrum.
The ceremony was joined by Justin Clancy MP, Member for Albury, and Mayor Kevin Mack, who toured the new facilities with students and staff.
The upgrades, which were completed in under 12 months, include new equipment and furniture, fresh surfacing across paving, concrete and soft-fall areas, drainage upgrades, and new planting and irrigation to create a calm and welcoming environment. The new areas have been designed to encourage social interaction, sensory exploration and active learning in a supportive setting.
Principal of Aspect Riverina School Kathryn Stuart said the redevelopment was part of Aspect’s ongoing commitment to enhancing learning environments that meet the diverse needs of its students.
“These new playgrounds are purposefully designed spaces that help our students build confidence, develop new skills and enjoy the freedom to learn and play safely,” said Ms Stuart.
“Because children on the autism spectrum thrive on structure and routine, managing a project of this scale during the school year required careful planning, communication and flexibility from our whole community. It’s been a significant logistical effort, and I’m incredibly proud of how our students and staff have adapted and remained focused throughout.”
The project was delivered in three stages to minimise disruption to learning and ensure safe access throughout construction. The Senior School Playground now features a new multi-use sports area with soft-fall surfacing, coloured concrete and shaded seating for students to gather and play.
The Brewer Building Courtyard has been transformed into a flexible, all-weather space with artificial turf and new plantings, providing a calm, green setting for both students and staff. Meanwhile, the Junior School Playground offers exciting new climbing and play equipment, shaded seating zones, and dedicated water play areas to encourage exploration and sensory engagement.
Reflecting on the occasion, Judy Brewer AO said it was a privilege to see the Brewer Building officially opened as part of the celebration.
“Walking through the school today is deeply moving,” said Ms Brewer. “When Tim and I first became involved with Aspect more than two decades ago, autism awareness and services looked very different. To now see a school community that embraces difference, fosters belonging and gives every child the opportunity to thrive is incredibly rewarding.”
Member for Albury Justin Clancy MP said the new spaces reflect the community’s commitment to inclusion and wellbeing. “It’s wonderful to see these facilities come to life for the students at Aspect Riverina. These are spaces where every child can play, connect and thrive,” Mr Clancy said.
Mayor Kevin Mack congratulated the school community on creating an environment that nurtures both learning and belonging. “Projects like this show how thoughtful design and collaboration can make a real difference in the lives of local families,” he said.
Aspect Riverina School, Albury campus provides specialised education for students aged 4 to 17 years on the autism spectrum. The new playgrounds form part of Aspect’s broader focus on creating learning spaces that are calm, engaging and supportive of every child’s individual strengths.
Aspect estimates that one in 40 Australians are on the autism spectrum.
For more information:
Karen Keech 0411 052 408 karen@establishedpr.com.au
About Aspect
Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia) is one of Australia’s largest autism-specific service providers, with one of the world’s most extensive autism-specific educational programs. A not-for-profit organisation, we work in partnership with people of all ages on the autism spectrum to co-develop, co-produce and co-deliver supports and services that are individualised, goal driven and grounded in evidence-based practices.
