Community Triumph: New beach wheelchairs to transform Four Mile into accessible and inclusive oasis

WHEELING IN CHANGE

Jamie Jansen

Journalist

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Last Friday marked the official introduction of the brand-new beach wheelchairs, offering people like Jesse (Mossman local) and Ro-Anne (Mareeba local) a chance to test them out. Picture: Newsport

Two brand-new beach access wheelchairs have recently rolled onto the sandy shores of Four Mile Beach, signifying a substantial leap towards inclusivity and redefining the coastal experience for all.

This development directly addresses community concerns earlier this year regarding the accessibility of Four Mile Beach for individuals in wheelchairs, aligning seamlessly with Queensland's heightened focus on accessible tourism this year.

The official introduction of these wheelchairs took place last Friday at the lively ‘Santastic Sprint’ on Four Mile Beach. Organised by Mossman Support Services, this beach fun afternoon also kicked off Disability Action Week 2023.

The catalyst for the arrival of the beach wheelchairs was a simple yet powerful request from an individual seeking beach access during their holiday. The proactive Douglas Shire community turned this request into a reality, demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity.

Mossman local Jesse was one of the first ones to ‘test-drive’ the latest wheelchairs during the ‘Santastic Sprint’ organised by Mossman Support Services. Picture: Newsport

Heather Taylor, Manager at Mossman Support Services, emphasised the community’s dedication, saying, “It didn’t sit right that we couldn’t say yes to someone being able to make the most of our beautiful beaches while here on holidays, let alone for those who live here having access to something we should all be able to enjoy”.

In response, Mossman Support Services organised impactful fundraising events, including a successful Bollywood Nights dinner, rallying overwhelming community support.

Additionally, recognising the pressing need for accessible beach equipment, the Douglas Shire Council contributed generously, resulting in the acquisition of two beach wheelchairs for the community.

Addressing the global statistic that approximately 1.85 percent of people require a wheelchair, the Santastic Sprint initiative also aimed to educate local tourism stakeholders about additional activities and resources for people with disabilities who choose to holiday in the region.

While the community now has access to two beach wheelchairs, the focus shifts to finding a more easily accessible space near the beach for these invaluable resources. 

Currently, the lifesaving box only has room for one wheelchair, prompting Mossman Support Services to actively seek a solution that ensures the mobility aids are readily available for those who need them.

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