Two Plett locals are putting plans in place to make Central Beach in Plettenberg Bay accessible for people with wheelchairs so everyone can enjoy a beach day without worry!
Plettenberg Bay, South Africa (17 September 2024) — While most beaches ignite a sense of serenity and calm, the opposite often ensues for people with physical disabilities. Hoping to change this for community members and visitors of Plett are two locals who are proudly on a mission to make Plett’s main beach far more accessible!
Willow Mullins and Kira Primo have seen tourists venture to their small town for many summers. But, as the beaches fill up, another truth becomes apparent—not everyone can enjoy these natural pleasures in the same way, if at all.
“Spending so much time on the beach with my kids, who love to surf and play, I’ve often noticed how people with disabilities struggle to access the ocean or even the sand. It made me realise that everyone deserves the joy of a beach day,” says Kira.
“I was sitting in the beer garden at Moby’s when I saw a family struggling to get their daughter, who was in a wheelchair, onto the sand. That moment made it clear to me how much more we need to do to make our beaches accessible,” shares Willow.
Kira and Willow are now on a mission to give everyone a chance to enjoy a beach day at Plett’s Central Beach through their Mobi Mat project.
Not only a doorway to accessibility, the project will also champion environmental values as the mat is made from recycled materials and is fully recyclable itself.
“Using recycled materials was an important factor for us,” Kira explains. “We want to promote inclusivity while staying true to sustainable practices.”
The pair hope the project will be completed by the end of October—just in time for summer.
“This project would transform the beach experience for those with mobility challenges, offering them equal access and a newfound sense of freedom,” shares Kira.
“It would mean the world to me and our community,” Willow adds. “We’re planning to install the Mobi Mat on Central Beach, just off the ramp between Dolphin Adventures and Moby’s, right in front of the kiosk. The thought of people who’ve always wanted to feel the sand between their toes finally being able to do so brings us so much joy.”
The project is already underway, largely thanks to community members who are backing the cause through donations! Additionally, several people including lifeguards and have volunteered to keep the mat in good nick.
On top of the mat, the duo also aim to provide two mobility chairs.
Everyone is welcome to contribute where they can (you can find the crowdfunding campaign here) and the champions also hope that sponsors will come on board to make the magic happen.
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