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Access to one of the Tweed's most popular waterfront destinations has been boosted with the introduction of a new self‑service beach wheelchair at Jack Evans Boat Harbour's Central Beach.
The new initiative from Tweed Shire Council enables people with disability or limited mobility to enjoy the water more independently. It is free to hire and forms part of Council's growing range of accessible mobility equipment, which includes 4 beach wheelchairs located along the Tweed Coast as well as an all‑terrain chair.
Unlike Council's existing beach wheelchairs, which rely on the generosity of local volunteers, this new model offers greater independence and flexibility for users. It can be booked and accessed directly by the user via a personal PIN code, allowing collection of the chair without the need for volunteer assistance at the site.
Designed for use on sand, pathways and in the water, the chair is suitable for adults and children, helping more people enjoy the tranquility of the harbour.
As with all Council beach access equipment, a support person is required. They must be a capable, water‑confident adult who can assist with transfers and provide support at all times. Users must supply their own life jacket. For safety, the chair should only be used in the water up to seat level.
The launch comes in the wake of International Wheelchair Day on 1 March, highlighting Council's commitment to expanding access in line with the Tweed Access and Inclusion Plan.
The new chair builds on recent improvements in the Jack Evans Boat Harbour precinct, including Goorimahbah - Place of Stories, the Jingy Walla Skate Park, and upgraded foreshore access ramps. These initiatives continue to enhance the area as a welcoming and inclusive community space.
Tweed Shire Mayor Chris Cherry said the launch of the new beach wheelchair was an important moment for the Tweed.
"Such an exciting thing to launch this beach access wheelchair today. Being a self-service model, it's autonomous, it's flexible, it's free and it's available all the time. It means that all those in our community who have diverse abilities can experience getting in the water - something that we take for granted every day."
Director Sustainable Communities and Environment Naomi Searle said the new service represents a meaningful step in improving access to the Tweed's public spaces.
"Access to our waterways is incredibly important for residents and visitors alike. By introducing the new self‑service beach wheelchair at Jack Evans Boat Harbour, we're giving people more choice in how they experience this beautiful place," Ms Searle said.
"This initiative strongly supports the Tweed Access and Inclusion Plan, which guides Council's work to create spaces that are welcoming and accessible for everyone."
The beach wheelchair is free to use and can be booked online, with collection from the secure storage unit at Central Beach.
