Division 8 Councillor Jason O’Pray said improved access at community facilities is part of Sunshine Coast Council’s day to day business as outlined in the Sunshine Coast Aquatic Plan 2011 – 2026 and Sunshine Coast Access and Inclusion Plan 2011 – 2016.
“A pelican pool hoist was installed at the much-loved Cotton Tree Aquatic Centre in 2011 to improve access for those with disabilities,” Cr O’Pray said.
“As part of Council’s ongoing maintenance program we have just replaced the hand held control unit of the pool hoist at Cotton Tree Aquatic Centre.
“We have already received positive feedback about the difference these facilities make to people’s lives.
“In 2012, this initiative received a Spinal Injuries Association Inclusive Community Champions for Community and Leisure Facilities Refurbishment Award.”
Cotton Tree Aquatic Centre Manager, Michael Vidulich said the pool hoist supplied by Para Mobility allows the user to lower a wet wheelchair into the water by a hand held control unit.
“It is fantastic to see the pool hoist has been used frequently from day one of its arrival at the pool.
“This has complemented the suite of services available to the community at this popular aquatic centre.
“One of our loyal customers who regularly uses the pool hoist as part of his rehabilitation program is Michael Pullen.”
Michael Pullen of Maroochydore, a wheelchair-bound disability advocate said he suffers from Cahrcot-Marie-Tooth Syndrome, a neurological disorder affecting motor and sensory nerves.
“I have spent more than 30 years in a wheelchair and recently co-founded the Disabled Access Awareness Group with Graeme Mathieson to highlight issues that people with a disability face every day in their lives,” Mr Pullen said.
“As part of my rehabilitation program, I head to the Cotton Tree Aquatic Centre pool twice a week with my carer from Advanced Care Australia.
“The disability pool hoist allows me to access the warm water with ease.”
Visit council’s website for details on the location of disability pool hoists across the Sunshine Coast aquatics network.