Coast’s first RECHARGE PointTM to be launched at Kawana Shoppingworld

To celebrate International Day for People with Disability, Sunshine Coast Council will launch the region’s first RECHARGE Point TM at Kawana Shoppingworld from 10am to noon on December 1.

The RECHARGE PointTM will create a more accessible, inclusive and welcoming environment to support people who use electric mobility scooters or wheelchairs at the centre.

International Day for People with Disability on December 3 is about increasing public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability and to celebrate the achievements and contributions of people with disability.

Community Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay said International Day of People with Disability was an opportunity for the Sunshine Coast community to learn how to break down the barriers for people with disability.

“This annual initiative was also about encouraging communities to come together to celebrate the contribution people with disability make to the Sunshine Coast,” Cr McKay said.

“The 2017 theme for International Day of People with Disability - Transformation towards sustainable and resilient society for all - aligns with our Sunshine Coast Social Strategy which highlights the importance of ensuring people are connected, resilient, engaged and feel valued.”

Cr McKay said council was committed to working in partnership with those agencies that are working to build inclusion and access in our region.

“The RECHARGE Point is a designated area for people to recharge their electric mobility scooter or wheelchair battery for free and offers peace of mind for people to be active within the community without being stranded by a flat battery,” Cr McKay said.

“Council has also organised for a professional electrician to provide free testing and tagging for mobility scooters and motorised wheelchair charging cords from 10am to noon on December 1. It is important for people to bring their invertor and cord with them on the day.”

Kawana Shoppingworld centre manager Claire Torkington said the community was the centre’s focal point and Mirvac prided itself on its investment back into activities that enhanced health and wellbeing, as well as strengthening social inclusion.

“This all demonstrates our real and long-term commitment, both within and beyond the centre doors,” she said.

“We are proud to be announced as the first RECHARGE PointTM and this is a welcomed addition to our existing range of facilities to cater for customers with disabilities including four wheelchair friendly bathrooms; convenient parking close to centre entrances; free mobility scooter hire and easy, stair-free access throughout the centre.”

The RECHARGE PointTM, located between Woolworths and the Red Apple Shop, will be available seven days a week.

To find out about disability support on the Sunshine Coast, visit council’s website, or if your group or business would like to discuss how to get involved by offering a RECHARGE PointTM on the Sunshine Coast email [email protected].