Please note: this is an old article
It was published in May 2004, so the information may be out-of-date.
The Greater Shepparton City Council has received $3,500 funding from VicHealth for an 8 week trial single gender bathing program outside of normal operating hours.
Greater Shepparton’s Mayor, Cr Anne McCamish, said a committee comprising representatives from the Council, Ethnic Council, ValleySport, “Participation Made Possible” Steering Committee, Multicultural Women’s Group, and Arabic Women’s Group will be responsible for administering the trial.
“Outcomes from the committee’s meetings will also be distributed to other community groups including the Goulburn Valley Centre Against Sexual Assault, GV Family Care, The Bridge, Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-Operative, the Shepparton Multicultural Hostel, the Regional Information and Advocacy Council, Mooroopna Community House, and North Shepparton Community and Learning Centre,” Cr McCamish said.
“The Equal Opportunity Commission needs to grant the Council an exemption to run the trial. It will involve only female participants and staff, and attendees will have to pay normal entry costs during the program.”
Cr McCamish said, “It is anticipated the trial single gender bathing program will commence around the middle of August. However, this will be dependent on final Equal Opportunity Commission approval.”
It is expected the program will be held at Aquamoves, outside of normal operating hours, and most likely on a Saturday or Sunday evening between 5.30 and 7.30 pm. Signage will be displayed within Aquamoves during the period prior to submitting the proposed program to the Equal Opportunity Commission for approval.
“Of the funding provided by VicHealth, $3300 will be used for training Aquamoves staff, committee members and other relevant people in cultural awareness,” Cr McCamish added.