Community
6 November, 2024
Beach inclusion day is set to return next month
PORT Campbell Surf Life Saving Club (PCSLSC) has announced the return of its highly anticipated Beach Inclusion Day.
The award-winning event will make a return, with support from Corangamite Shire Council, later this year on December 8.
The event, titled ‘Stepping Towards Independence,’ is designed to ensure that individuals with movement and balance difficulties can fully enjoy the beach and water activities in a safe and inclusive environment.
Following its recognition at the South West Sports Awards for Disability and Inclusion, and as a finalist for the prestigious Life Saving Victoria (LSV) Janet Jones OAM Disability and Inclusion Award, PCSLSC is committed to expanding access and inclusion at Port Campbell’s beach.
This year’s event will cater to individuals who use wheelchairs and those with movement or balance issues, as well as their families and carers.
Event organiser James Czencz, a Surf Lifesaver and Physiotherapist, said he was looking forward to building on last year’s event.
“Last year, we demonstrated to the disability community that our beaches at Port Campbell are accessible and inclusive,” he said.
“This year, we aim to take it further by showcasing how anyone can access the beach independently, whenever they choose—not just on designated days.
“By showing people how to book equipment and become familiar with it, we empower them to make beach visits a regular part of their lives.”
The Beach Accessibility Day will feature:
A guided tour of the beach facilities;
Beach equipment demonstrations, including beach wheelchairs and walking frames;
Surfing activities hosted by the Great South Coast Disabled Surfers Association (DSA); and
A barbecue lunch and social activities to foster community spirit.
The event has earned praise from past participants, with one family saying it was their first opportunity to be on the sand as a family.
“It was one of the best days we’ve had,” they said.
Another parent shared that the beach day “just took it to another level,” when referring to their visit to the beach.
Finally, another participant remarked, “It was the best day I’ve had in a long time”.
Port Campbell Surf Life Saving Club continues its efforts to promote independence, wellbeing, and inclusion.
By hosting this event, the club is not only providing an unforgettable day at the beach but is also empowering individuals with disabilities to experience beach access beyond special events.
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