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Ern Halliday Recreation Camp has had a $3.7 million facelift.

Often called a sanctuary in the suburbs, on 17 November Premier Mark McGowan officially opened the new facilities which marked 45 years to the day since the camp first opened its doors in 1976.

The Hillarys camp provides adventure recreation activities and camp experiences suitable for all ages and ability. It attracts more than 55,000 people annually, both school and corporate groups.

The camp’s Spinnaker Precinct refurbishment includes:

• a new 72-bed dormitory facility designed to support adult users, adequate segregation to support child safeguarding and improved disability access
• inclusion of an accessible Changing Places facility into the accommodation area
• fully refurbished ablution block and laundry area
• upgraded kitchen facility to support onsite catering and self-catering
• a new dining hall that connects campers with the natural beauty of the site
• designated vehicle and pedestrian access
• new landscaping.
  

Camp manager Brett Poole says Spinnaker was reaching the end of its serviceable life, making the refurbishment very welcome. The increase of 22 beds means the camp can host bigger groups plus the accessible Changing Places facility for those with disability means adults and children who might not have been able to access the camp before will now be able to do so.

“It’s important that everyone who comes to stay at camp feels included and the new Spinnaker facility allows that to happen,” says Brett. “A new precinct like this also gives us more opportunities to share the great impact a camp can have on the lives of students and adults. Yes, it’s a chance to be active and challenge yourself, but it’s also a chance to get to know your camp mates better and learn about teamwork and problem solving.

“The first group came to stay at Spinnaker the day the precinct re-opened. Everyone loved the new spaces and had a great time.”

Check out the upgrades to the Ern Halliday Recreation Camp.