East Beach All Abilities Recreation Area

George Town Council is proud to officially open the All Abilities Recreation Area at East Beach – Low Head. We believe that this is a first for a Northern Tasmanian Beach. The East Beach All Abilities Recreation Area includes accessible seating, sensor activated shower, accessible toilets and parking, accessible BBQ tables and BBQ’s which ensures that all people of all ages and all abilities are able to enjoy a day out at the beach.

The Australian Government Grant largely funded the East Beach All Abilities Recreation Area project under the Local Roads, and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program.

The LRCI Program aims to assist community-led recovery from COVID-19 by supporting local jobs, firms and procurement.

The East Beach all-abilities recreation area offers full abilities access to the facilities and the water’s edge from the carpark. The beach wheelchair accessible matting was recently purchased and installed by George Town Council to complete this project.

The East Beach all-abilities recreation area now includes an 8x8m picnic shelter and a new 5x5m picnic shelter with wind protection walls, two accessible picnic tables, and two accessible electric BBQs, plus an outdoor shower. Low lighting will provide passive surveillance at night, and the new boardwalk provides all abilities access to the beach. Including a designated disabled parking bay.

Interesting Project Facts
The decking was built from chemical-free and eco-friendly composite material.
• 8,500 kg of recycled plastic
• 8,500 kg of reclaimed non-treated timber
• 222,000 x 2 litre plastic milk bottles
• 500 cubic metres of plastic diverted from landfill

As part of our Diversity, Equitable Access and Inclusion Policy, George Town Council strives for fair and equal access for people within our community. This project is an excellent example of this policy. Providing accessible infrastructure within our community enhances livelihood and improves the positive experience of people with disabilities, carers, young people and the elderly.

George Town Council’s Mayor Greg Keiser said, “ This is an impressive project that shows that full inclusion can occur when there is great planning and execution in the building of community infrastructure. “

“We believe that George Town Council has established itself as a leader in the all abilities community infrastructure space in Tasmania. We are committed to ensuring all our community and visitors have access to amazing facilities like this one.” he said

Mrs Bridget Archer MP Federal Member for Bass, said the project has delivered on its promise of ensuring equitable access to all who love to visit East Beach.

“We should maximise accessibility to our public spaces, including our stunning beaches for locals and visitors alike,” Mrs Archer said.

“This East Beach All Abilities Recreation Area is a great example of how government funding can and should be used to support essential community projects.”

ParaQuad Tasmania, the peak body for Tasmanians with Spinal Cord Injury and physical disability, welcomes George Town Council’s commitment to accessibility.

“To see accessibility improved at East Beach is fantastic, for locals and visitors alike,” said Carmel Clark, CEO of ParaQuad Tasmania.

“The beach matting will allow more people to enjoy another beautiful Tasmanian beach. The new barbecue facilities have plenty of room to move around, and tables are designed with wheelchair users in mind. These are modest, yet significant considerations on the pathway to building an inclusive community.
“We offer our heartiest congratulations to George Town Council for their foresight and tangible response to inclusion for all.” Carmel Clark, CEO of ParaQuad Tasmania.

"Going to the beach is a favourite pastime for so many people, yet it usually isn’t an option for those with mobility issues in wheelchairs. The East Beach boardwalk and disability parking bring accessibility to such a lovely place, allowing everyone to enjoy the beach experience. We know how delighted our members will be at this investment". Belinda Kitto | CEO New Horizons Tasmania.