Lockhart Shire Council has welcomed a generous donation from the Lockhart Anglers Club with a Platypus aquatic wheelchair to be used at the Lockhart Swimming Pool Complex to improve accessibility for all users.

This specialised aquatic wheelchair will enhance accessibility at the facility, providing safer and more inclusive access to the water for people with limited mobility.

With a 200kg weight capacity and purpose-built aquatic design, the chair enables greater participation in swimming and recreational activities for all members of the community.

Mayor Peter Sharp welcomed the donation, highlighting the importance of inclusive community facilities.

“Council is committed to ensuring our public facilities are accessible to everyone,” Mayor Sharp said.

“The donation of this Platypus Aquatic Wheelchair is a meaningful contribution that will allow more residents and visitors to enjoy our pool safely.

"We sincerely thank the Lockhart Anglers Club for their generosity and continued support of our community."

A representative of the club, Megan McKenzie, said the club was pleased to contribute to a project that benefits the community.

“The club is always looking to give back to the community,” Ms McKenzie said.

“As someone working in disability care within the community, I noticed there was a gap in how people with mobility challenges were able to access the pool.

"It really highlighted that there wasn’t a suitable way for everyone to enter the facility, and we wanted to help change that.

"Accessibility is important, and it’s a passion of mine to see more of it prioritised within our community. “

The donation represents a positive step toward creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment at the pool complex.

The new wheelchair will be available for users later in the year when the swimming pool season opens.