VIDEO: TOURIST MOBILITY TEST: How accessible is Four Mile Beach in year of accessible tourism in QLD?
PASS OR FAIL?
In the Year of Accessible Tourism in Qld Newsport has continued to shine a spotlight and highlight the importance of Douglas Shire Council providing ease of access to our local attractions for those with mobility issues.
Two such individuals who went about seeking out authentic, safe and memorable experiences around the Douglas Shire over the past few days has been sisters Cathy Duncan who resides in South Australia And Jennie Hill who is based in Melbourne.
The tourists have visited various local areas in Port Douglas including the marina and more recently, as late as yesterday, Four Mile beach.
In this special video interview they provided insight and feedback on what they think and feel about general accessibility for those with mobility issues who want to experience Four Mile Beach.
It’s also worth noting upon enquiry Newsport received a response from Douglas Shire Council back on March 8 this year in regards to facilities already in place at the beach to assist those with mobility issues.
“In 2018, Council built an all-access ramp near the lifeguard hut at Four Mile Beach for people with mobility issues,” Douglas Shire mayor Michael Kerr told Newsport a number of months ago.
“During the wet season, the all-access mat is occasionally removed to protect it from washouts and high tides.
“Contractors will be reinstating the mat this week and will remove it again when excessive high tides return later this month.
“Council is firmly committed to supporting the needs of residents and visitors with mobility issues.
“Council has a pipeline of projects that will benefit and improve accessibility along the Esplanade in Port Douglas, including new shelters and beach access.
“Douglas Shire has so many picturesque locations and it is crucial we enable all people to live and breathe these unique experiences.”
FOOTNOTE: In the video interview conducted on Tuesday Cathy makes her way to the end of the mat on the beach in which she then transfers to Council’s beach wheelchair. (September 5)
Less than 24 hours after Newsport interviewed Cathy, the mat had once again been fully extended, allowing Cathy full access to Four Mile Beach. (September 6)
“Just arrived at the beach and the matting has been extended,” an excited Jennie told Newsport on Wednesday morning.
“Cathy is ecstatic. She fully wheeled directly onto the beach. Fully independent. Accessible.”
What do you think? In general is there satisfactory entry to Four Mile Beach for those with mobility issues? Does the Four Mile beachfront cater sufficiently to those who experience mobiity issues?
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