Every day across Mandurah, local people, businesses, and community groups are doing incredible things, and many of them are made possible through support provided by your rates. While rates are often associated with everyday essentials such as roads and rubbish collections, they also help fund vital programs, services, and opportunities that strengthen our economy, support our community, and protect our natural environment.
As part of our #ThanksToYou campaign, we’ll be highlighting the success stories of inspiring Mandurah locals over the coming months.
This time around, we’re visiting Riverside Gardens in Greenfields to see how the City’s All Abilities Paddle Launch is making a difference for residents like Tracy and support workers like Charlie.
For many, the simple joy of paddling on the Serpentine River is something taken for granted. However, for those with limited mobility, the physical barrier of getting from the shore into a vessel can be overwhelming.
“Typically, those in wheelchairs and with less mobility will struggle to get in and out of kayaks because they can't get in the water and then transfer into a kayak,” explains Charlie, a service coordinator at Midway Community Care.
The All Abilities Paddle Launch, funded by (you guessed it) your rates, was designed to solve this exact problem. Featuring a specialised transfer bench and secure metal handles, it allows individuals to leverage themselves safely into their kayak or canoe.
For program participant Tracy, the facility has opened up a whole new world of adventure.
“It’s really cool going on the water. I love being out on the water,” Tracy said.
“It was really helpful that they had the hooks and stuff to be able to get in.”
While it might come across as just some metal handles on a platform, don’t be mistaken: Our All Abilities Paddle Launch is a world-class piece of accessible infrastructure that is providing new outdoor experiences for many locals.
Mandurah was named WA’s Most Accessible Community for the third time last year. That’s something we can all be proud of, and it wouldn’t be possible without the support of your rates and the amazing accessibility projects you help fund.
“A lot of people take for granted the ability to be able to go kayaking and do different things,” Charlie said.
“With this All Abilities Paddle Launch, it does provide that access to a lot of people who previously have never been able to kayak.”
This is a classic example of how your rates go beyond your weekly rubbish collection.
By paying your rates, you’re helping us build a city with a village heart, where everyone has a place in our community.
As Tracy puts it, it’s all thanks to you!
For more information on the All Abilities Paddle Launch, or to read more about other accessible features in Mandurah, click here.
To read more stories from inspiring locals, check out our Thanks To You campaign here: www.mandurah.wa.gov.au/thankstoyou
