Bruce Steer Pool in Bermagui can now be accessed by people with mobility impairments with a ramp being constructed into the water. Photo: Bega Valley Shire Council.
A project to make an ocean pool inclusive for people of all abilities has finished and the water can now be accessed by those with mobility impairments – just in time for summer.
Construction of the accessibility ramp into Bruce Steer Pool in Bermagui was recently completed, the final part of a project at the pool that included new public amenities, accessible parkland pathways, park furniture and accessible car park line-marking.
Bega Valley Shire Council’s Access and Inclusion Advisory committee chair Rosemary Oates said the project will significantly improve the amenity of the pool, which is on the south side of the town’s harbour, for people with mobility issues.
She said the project “has transformed this beautiful sea pool area into an all-abilities destination for residents and visitors alike.”
Member for Bega Andrew Constance said the Bega Valley’s unique and often rugged coastline has severely restricted or prevented those with mobility restrictions from enjoying the activities many take for granted.
“The installation of this ramp means a large number of locals and visitors alike can now enjoy the ocean in a safe way for the first time. It’s extremely exciting,” he said.
The new ramp at Bruce Steer Pool in Bermagui. Photo: Bega Valley Shire Council.
Bruce Steer Pool is also not the only feature in Bermagui that is friendly for people of all abilities.
“The new 40 metre-long accessible-compliant ramp with handrails and other features completed last year, such as accessible amenities and improved accessible parking, complement the all-abilities playground completed in Bermagui earlier this year,” council’s manager for leisure and recreation John Grady said.
At lower tides, the ramp provides access to view the tidal rock shelf and shallow rock pools, while at higher tides, it has a depth of 900mm enabling water access for people with limited mobility.
The project at the pool received more than $575,000 from the Restart NSW Fund as well as a council contribution of nearly $60,000.
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