Sorell council believed to be first in Tasmania to install beach access ramps reaching sand, water

Tasmanians of all abilities will now be able to enjoy a day at the beach, after a local council installed two permanent access ramps leading right to the water’s edge. Find out where.

Project officer Paul Markey, Accessible Tourism Officer ParaQuad Tasmania Richard Witbreuk, Sorell Mayor Kerry Vincent with Physical Disability Sports Coordinator ParaQuad Tasmania Kevin Faulkner (in wheelchair). Picture: Supplied

TASMANIANS of all abilities will now be able to enjoy a day at the beach, after a local council installed two permanent access ramps leading right to the water’s edge – a move believed to be a first for the state.

The ramps, located at Park and Carlton beaches in the Sorell council municipality, will allow wheelchair and mobility device users to access the sand and water.

Sorell Council is believed to be the first in the state to install permanent ramps which lead to the water.

Sorell Mayor Kerry Vincent said it became obvious that council would need to ensure the beach was accessible for as many people in the community as possible, and contacted ParaQuad Tasmania for advice.

Project officer Paul Markey, Accessible Tourism Officer ParaQuad Tasmania Richard Witbreuk, Sorell Mayor Kerry Vincent with Physical Disability Sports Coordinator ParaQuad Tasmania Kevin Faulkner (in wheelchair). Picture: Supplied

“They made fantastic suggestions about what could be done and how we could make it work for people with differing levels of mobility,” Mr Vincent said.

Kevin Faulkner, a Sorell resident and wheelchair user who often heads to the beach, said he was impressed with the new facilities, allowing him to access the beach independently.

In a 2021 ParaQuad Tasmania survey, 82 per cent of respondents agreed that the biggest barrier to accessing the beach was a lack of suitable ramps.

Accessible Tourism Officer with ParaQuad Tasmania, Richard Witbreuk, said he hoped other councils would be inspired by the installations.

“After years of advocating for accessible beaches, to see what Sorell council has delivered is fantastic,” Mr Witbreuk said.

“We believe it's a first for Tasmania, and it shows leadership and commitment to accessibility,

“It’s a smart move by the council because it makes the area a destination for more people to come and enjoy; it shows other councils what can be done with a consultative approach.”