ORANGE residents with a disability who swim regularly at the Orange Aquatic Centre now have new equipment to use that lets them gain easier access to the pools.
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With a community grant from the Orange Credit Union, the aquatic centre has a new $2500 water wheelchair.
Regular visitor to the pool Ros Grant said the new equipment will make a huge difference to her visits to the aquatic centre.
“It’s life-changing, this new wheelchair being provided is an absolute lifesaver,” she said.
“I can’t exercise on land but I can now exercise in the pool.
“A big thank-you must go to Orange Credit Union and Beth [Shea] and the people that run the aquatic centre, the lifeguards and staff are just amazing.”
With a disabled ramp already in place at the Orange Aquatic Centre, the new wheelchair allows users to access the pool via the ramp and once they have enough buoyancy, exercise without assistance.
It’s not only the elderly and disabled who will have access to the new chair however, those recovering from injuries or surgery are also free to use the water wheelchair.
Councillor Jason Hamling said it’s a welcome addition to the Orange Aquatic Centre.
“The pool is not all about swimming and sport, it’s about people with disabilities and people recovering from injuries,” he said.
“It will allow them to be able to continue their rehabilitation.
“From a council point of view it’s great to see businesses like Orange Credit Union giving back to the community.”
According to Orange Aquatic Centre manager Beth Shea, this won’t be the last upgrade to facilities at the centre.
“There will be money available from the recent council budget to put in a adult change table and lifting equipment in the disabled toilet facilities,” she said.
“That will increase the access for even more people.”
bryson.ferreira@fairfaxmedia.com.au
