Mackay to host first accessible U-BEACH event
CQUniversity is set to launch Mackay’s inaugural U-BEACH Community Beach Day, a free, accessible event for people of all abilities and their families.
Held tomorrow (Friday, 30 May) at Harbour Beach in Mackay, the event is delivered by Universal Beach Access Hub (U-BEACH) and led by CQUniversity Physiotherapy team in partnership with community sponsors.
CQU Physiotherapy lecturer and event organiser, Sasha Job said the event will support everyone to enjoy the beach with assistance for wheelchair transfers, including hoists, mobility assistance and equipment.
“People who use wheelchairs or have mobility issues find it difficult to traverse over sand, restricting them from the beach,” Ms Job said.
“Our volunteers, including CQU Physiotherapy students, will provide physical assistance to help people with varying mobility levels access the sand and the ocean.”
She added that beach activities including walking and wheeling, swimming, kites, cricket, sand games and sandcastle building will also be on offer.
The Mackay event is the third U-BEACH Community Beach Day held in regional Queensland this year, following events in Emu Park and Bargara.
"Inclusivity is at the heart of our mission at U-BEACH and we want to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the joy and freedom that the beach offers,” Ms Job said.
“We hope this is the first of many events we can host in the Mackay and Whitsunday region.”
