The SA Government has announced new funding dedicated to improving beach access for individuals with disabilities and mobility issues. The initiative, led by disability support organisation estara, aims to expand its beach access program in the upcoming 2025 summer season at Glenelg beach.
This program, which will now enter its fourth year, has received nearly $10,000 through the Social Impact program’s first round for the fiscal year 2024-25. The allocated funds will be used for purchasing a Mobichair floating wheelchair and eight Milo waterproof communicators. These additions will significantly aid more participants each session, allowing them to enjoy the beach experience fully.
Nat Cook, Minister for Human Services, shared, “Being able to go to the beach is something that most South Australians take for granted, but for many, accessibility challenges can limit the opportunities for them to do so.”
“Our Government is proud to support estara and this program, which allows people with disabilities to experience and enjoy the beach while being supported by trained and capable staff.”
The program offers six supported beach access sessions between January and March. Each session operates as a ‘come and try’ event designed to encourage participants to eventually visit ‘self-serve’ beaches, which are equipped for spontaneous access. The last season’s overwhelming demand saw every session fully booked, with additional participants attending on the day.
Beth Davidson-Park, Board Chair of estara, shared the excitement and the impact of the program, “estara is thrilled to partner with The City of Holdfast Bay in providing supported beach days over recent summers, and the volume of people coming continues to grow.” She continued, “Some have enjoyed the water at the beach for the first time.”
The program not only introduces individuals to the beach experience but also ensures each participant is supported by specially trained staff including occupational therapists. These professionals help ensure safety and accessibility, making it possible for participants to have enjoyable and fulfilling beach outings.
In addition to Glenelg, other South Australian beaches such as Henley Beach, Seacliff, Semaphore, Semaphore South, Normanville, and Whyalla Foreshore are also classified as accessible. These venues offer varying levels of accessibility to accommodate visitors with different needs.
For those interested in participating or learning more about the program, upcoming sessions are scheduled for Sunday 9th February, Saturday 22nd February, Friday 7th March, and Saturday 22nd March 2025. Participants are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities, which offer a much-needed escape and the joys of beach activities in a supported environment.
Craig Davidson-Park shared, “estara is grateful for the receipt of a social and community grant that supports us to create increased opportunities at our Glenelg beach days this season and in future seasons.”
For more information on accessible beaches and the program, visit the official directory at accessiblebeaches.com/beach-directory.
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