August 13th, 2026A new beach wheelchair is now available at the Paradise Point Parklands

Funded through Division 4 Local Area Allocations it forms part of the City of Gold Coast’s Beach Access Program, which aims to improve access to the coast for people with disability, reduced mobility, seniors and visitors.
Offering free community access, users can access the wheelchair independently via the lockbox QR code system with an instructional video at the city website. So there is no need for advance bookings or having to go through clubs/volunteers.

The lockbox is next to the Paradise Point swimming enclosure near the corner of Ephraim Island Bridge and The Esplanade.
The beach wheelchair is a Hippocampe model; with beach matting providing a practical pathway towards the water along with a beach access ramp and nearby accessible parking spaces.
As part of a broader accessible and inclusive space Paradise Point Parklands is also home to a Changing Places facility located near the lockbox, providing: a height-adjustable change bench; ceiling tracking hoist; accessible shower and toilet; and facilities for people with high support needs.
Meanwhile the upgraded Paradise Point Playground will reopen next month, with inclusive equipment for children of all abilities. The parklands are also a regular base for Cycling Without Age, a volunteer-led program providing trishaw rides for people who can no longer ride independently.
Division 4’s Councillor Shelley Curtis said everyone should be able to enjoy the region’s beautiful shared spaces. “This project helps remove barriers and makes it easier for more people in our community to experience everything Paradise Point has to offer.”

Above, Division 4 Councillor Shelley Curtis with Gemma Heslin, trying out the new beach wheelchair, right, the Hippocampe model beach wheelchair

Images: Contributed