New beach wheelchair breaks barriers at Scottburgh beach
The beach wheelchair is a simple, yet powerful way to promote inclusivity, dignity and equal access.
In an effort to ensure that people of all mobility levels can experience and enjoy the beauty of Scottburgh beach, local resident Sue Martin set out on a fundraising mission to get a beach wheelchair in the area. She is now happy to report that the mission was a success, and Scottburgh now has its very own beach wheelchair!
Sue, who was involved in a freak mountain bike accident several years ago which left her in a wheelchair, said that many individuals living with disabilities still face significant barriers when accessing public beaches, and that these spaces should be open and welcoming to all.
“The beach wheelchair is a simple yet powerful way to promote inclusivity, dignity and equal access,” she said.
Thanks to a BackaBuddy fundraising campaign which she only launched three months ago in partnership with the Quadriplegic Association of South Africa (QASA), the goal was met and the wheelchair purchased.
The beach wheelchair was brought down to Scottburgh main beach on Thursday (July 2). Sue was able to test it out herself, accompanied by her surfing coach, Lifa Jambane and assisted by Siyabonga Shezi. Celebrating this special addition to the beach were the Scottburgh lifeguards, beach manager Nomfundo Dlamini, and acting municipal manager DD Naidoo.
The beach wheelchair enabled Sue to get into the water with ease, before getting onto her surfboard for adaptive surfing. She competed in this year’s South African National Parasurfing Championships and is fond of being in the water.
On the day, Sue mentioned that this was in fact one of the most important days in her life.
“Anybody who has disabilities is allowed to use this beach wheelchair, free of charge,” said Sue.
“We can do exactly what others do, but just with a little bit of help. And with the local community, the help has been amazing!”
Sue thanks all those who helped with the fundraising campaign for the Scottburgh beach wheelchair drive, and is grateful to each contributor.
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