Anglesea beachgoers to benefit from new mobility gear

ANGLESEA beachgoers will soon have access to new beach mobility equipment following the purchase of a Mobi-Chair and portable hoist.

The purchase is part of the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority’s (GORCAPA) broader efforts to improve the accessibility of beaches in Anglesea, Torquay, Lorne and Apollo Bay.

It follows an eight-week community engagement period that sought to understand the challenges and opportunities in making the beach at Anglesea more accessible.

Responses were evenly divided between locals and visitors, and 47 per cent of respondents were either people living with a disability or someone caring for a person with a disability.

GORCAPA acting director of environment and coastal operations Mark Davies thanked everyone who provided feedback.

“Going to the beach is one of Australia’s favourite pastimes, so it’s important that our beaches are accessible to everyone,” he said.

“We’re proud to provide hoists, accessible wheelchairs, parking and matting so that people of all abilities can access beaches from Torquay to Apollo Bay.”

He said the decision to purchase a Mobi-Chair and portable hoist was a direct result of the community feedback gathered, with 33 per cent of respondents indicating the equipment as their preferred mobility option.

The equipment will be made available to beachgoers before the beginning of the summer period.

More than 60 per cent of respondents, however, indicated a preference for a Wheeleez All-Terain Beach Walker, and Mr Davis said GORCAPA would continue to explore funding opportunities to allow the beach walker to be added to the range of available equipment.

In response to the community’s feedback, GORCAPA is hoping to launch a new and improved booking system before the upcoming summer to make it easier for locals and visitors to book beach mobility equipment.

Mr Davis said the Authority was also progressing plans for a “Come and Try” day later this year, giving people the opportunity to access and experience the range of beach mobility equipment available firsthand.

“Conversations with local service providers and community groups are under way to understand the best timing and location for this event and will we publicise the details shortly.”