Beach wheelchairs for surf clubs

Minister for Disability Services Mr John Della Bosca recently launched six beach wheelchairs for the Central Coast at the Ocean Beach Surf Life Saving Club at Umina Beach.

"The additional beach accessible wheelchairs will improve the quality of life for many people with disabilities by providing access to the region's beautiful beaches," Mr Della Bosca said.

"The new chairs have been designed with large rubber wheels that make it easy to push them through the sand.

"This initiative will improve the quality of life for people with a disability by giving them access to beach activities with their family and friends that they previously weren't able to enjoy."

The surf lifesaving clubs receiving the new chairs are Ocean Beach, Killcare, Wamberal, North Avoca, MacMasters and Copacabana.

The wheelchairs are jointly funded by Life Without Barriers, Gosford Council and the NSW Government at a cost of $20,700.

Mr Della Bosca also presented a certificate to local 13-year-old surf lifesaver Kayla Hannell who lobbied to have the new wheelchairs made available.

"I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of Life Without Barriers and the Gosford City Council for helping deliver this project to the local community," Mr Della Bosca said.

"The Iemma Government funds Life Without Barriers to provide various services for people with a disability on the Central Coast.

"In 2004, the organisation first introduced beach accessible wheelchairs to Toowoon Bay, Umina Beach and Terrigal.

"The NSW Government provides about $11 million to 21 services to support people with a disability on the Central Coast.

"In addition, the Home and Community Care program, managed by the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care, provides $21 million to support older people, people with a disability and their carers in the region.

"The funding supports a range of services including respite, accommodation, community participation, home modifications, food services, day support, case management, therapy services and early intervention strategies," Mr Della Bosca said.

Press release, May 5 Andrew Plumley, Office of Minister for Disability Service