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Glenelg’s accessibility beach mats open 24/7 across the next two weeks

Glenelg’s accessible beach mat is proving to be a hit with the trial extending their days. See what days are available here.

Image credit: Shane Hryhorec.

Glenelg’s pristine sand and glistening waters edge have become a whole lot more accessible this week, as beach mats have been made available around the clock for as a part of an ongoing trial.

Currently hosted by the City of Holdfast Bay and ParaQuad SA (PQSA), Glenelg’s Accessible Beach Day events have become a regular asset across the last two summers. But now, there is a push to make the amenities a fixture in the hopes of seeing a permanent change for wheelchair users.

Disability advocate Shane Hryhorec is calling on support from the community, encouraging everyone to attend and utilise the ramp throughout the two-week period in the hopes of seeing a permanent change for wheelchair users.

“Inspired by my visit today, I realise the importance of sharing our stories,” Shane said.

“Post your beach experiences on social media, tagging the Council, to highlight the impact of this initiative.”

If the trial is successful, accessibility to some of the state’s most beautiful beaches may become a daily reality for those in wheelchairs rather than just during the occasional beach access days that are currently hosted by the Council.

The 50-metre beach mats are currently running straight from the footpath, along the Mosely Beach Club for anyone who may want to stop for a quick refresher, all the way through to the waters edge, ensuring smooth access for individuals using wheelchairs or facing mobility challenges. There are also designated wheelchair and parking areas on the sand.

Both the beach wheelchairs and the Mobi-chair floating wheelchair are available to use during these events free of charge, and it is advisable to make reservations in advance.

These events provide an entry point located north of the Glenelg Jetty, ensuring full wheelchair accessibility to Glenelg Beach with PQSA volunteers on hand to provide support. Importantly, the beach mat remains open to the general public, including those attending the events.

Apart from the current two-week trial, there are still several Accessible Beach Days coming up for those wanting to get amongst the action. These days are 10 am and 2 pm on Saturday, February 3rd, Sunday, February 18th and Sunday, March 10th.

Furthermore, Seacliff Beach offers another accessible beach mat experience every weekend throughout the summer months, courtesy of the dedicated volunteers from the Seacliff Surf Life Saving Club.

During the patrol season, spanning from October to April, diligent volunteer patrols roll out the accessible mat just south of the Seacliff patrol tower. This service is available from 12 pm on Saturdays and continues until 6 pm on Sundays.

With the long weekend approaching and the beautiful beach weather we’re expected to have over the coming week, it’s the perfect time to plan a beach day and head down to Glenelg to support this new initiative.

“Huge thanks to The City of Holdfast Bay, PQSA, and Rotary for your efforts towards making Glenelg Beach inclusive,” Shane said.

“This beach matting is more than just an amenity; it’s a pathway to freedom and enjoyment for everyone.”

For more information, click here.

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