Accessibility spreading the joys of the coast

BEACH wheelchairs and beach access matting will be made available at a number of beaches along the Surf Coast to ensure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy our wonderful coastline.

The equipment will be on offer at Torquay, Anglesea and Lorne under the Accessible Beaches program. Both Torquay and Lorne will have the matting, at Fisherman’s Beach and near the Lorne Surf Lifesaving Club, respectively. While Anglesea has its Changing Places facility, equipped with full-sized change tables and hoists for people with high support needs.

All beaches will have a form of beach wheelchair available, whether it be Sandcruiser or Mobi-Chair.

The Accessible Beaches program is delivered by the Surf Coast Shire Council and Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority, with support from Go Ride A Wave and Anglesea YMCA.

Surf Coast Shire Councillor Mike Bodsworth said this program was hugely important in giving people with limited mobility the experience many of us enjoy every summer.

“Our beautiful beaches are for all and Council is proud to play a meaningful role as part of the Accessible Beaches partnership, helping people with limited mobility to experience the environment and feel the waves,” Cr Bodsworth said.

“For some it might be an exciting first experience, for many it might be a particularly fulfilling or emotional experience after having spent significant parts of their lives on beaches.

“Supporting Accessible Beaches is part of Council’s commitment to improving access and inclusion for all to help build healthy, well-connected communities where everyone can participate.”

Bookings are essential when wishing to hire a beach access wheelchair.

For all information regarding the program visit https://www.surfcoast.vic.gov.au/Community/Access-for-all/Accessible-beaches.