Summer fun at the beach has gotten a little more accessible for all this year, with two new options available for members of the community requiring assistance navigating the trip to the water.
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The Shire of Augusta Margaret River has made available their Sand Cruiser, a beach wheelchair which can be used free of charge from now until April this year.
The Sand Cruiser can be taken over sand, grass, water and gravel and has a low tyre pressure for a smoother trip for users.
Shire Community Development Officer Susie Elton said the chair was a great way for those with reduced mobility to enjoy the beach over summer.
“The Cruiser suits those with a permanent disability, those with reduced mobility due to age and also people with a temporary disability,” she said.
“We are pleased to be promoting access and inclusion to both residents and tourists to the area, and we would also like to extend our gratitude to Matt and the team at Gracie’s for supporting this initiative.”
Members of the public can access the Sand Cruiser from Gracie’s Town Store in Gracetown.
The dedicated crew at the Disabled Surfing Association South West are celebrating the addition of some new equipment thanks to a generous donation from Dale Alcock Homes.
The local building company donated money to the Disabled Surfing Association South West chapter to purchase the new beach-friendly chair.
Disabled Surfing Association South West president Ant Purcell said the chair had taken 20 years to develop and features four wheels of the same size, better brakes and the ability for the user to lie flat if necessary.
The group, which is part of a wider network of associations around the country, provides support to people with varying disabilities to enjoy surfing in a safe and dignified environment.
Mr Purcell said the group was always seeking new helpers to assist them in and out of the water, and that no prior experience is necessary to lend a hand.
“We absolutely welcome people with open arms, the more the merrier,” he said.
“Not only is it a great day out for the participants, but we have so many volunteers tell us how great it is to be enjoying surfing and seeing other people so happy to be having fun in the water… it’s a very rewarding experience.”
The group’s next event will be a Let’s Go Surfing day this Saturday, January 14 at Bunker Bay Beach. Setup will begin at 7am with participants entering the water from 9am.
All gear is supplied for the free day as well as a sausage sizzle. For more information, or to volunteer, contact Ant on 9755 4037.