Access Consultancy Services for Australia’s first para Sports Clubhouse
Sporting Wheelies is Queensland’s leading provider of inclusive sports, recreation and rehabilitation therapy, and is the state’s peak body for Paralympic sports. As a not-for profit organisation and a member of Disability Sports Australia (DSA), it provides the full spectrum of inclusive sporting opportunities for Queenslanders living with a disability.
In an exciting and ambitious development, Sporting Wheelies have embarked upon the creation of Australia’s first Para Sports Clubhouse, with the help and support of the community. The centre is planned to combine industry leading facilities with world-class rehabilitation and support services, bringing together disability experts, allied health specialists and Para Sport coaches to improve the lives of people with a disability.
The development is to be located within an existing warehouse in Milton, Brisbane and shall include;
- The installation of Basketball / Boccia and Goalball courts.
- The creation of a gym and physio rooms for athletes.
- Refurbishment of existing office spaces for Sporting Wheelies staff.
- Installation of accessible amenities and meeting rooms.
- The modification of the existing carpark.
- The creation of an outdoor seating space.
Architecture and Access were initially approached at the start of 2023 by Coha Group’s Project Manager with a request to be part of the team of pro bono supporters that are helping to make this goal possible. We did not hesitate to accept the opportunity to provide access consultancy services. Coincidently, Disability Sports Australia is one of Architecture & Access’s selected supported charities.
As the design has progressively developed, Architecture & Access have undertaken reviews of the development’s plans and have provided advice on all access related design aspects. Recognising the specific purpose and intended users of this development, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Accessibility Guide 2020 was considered, in addition to current Australian standards, codes and legislation.
Architecture & Access staff have since had opportunity to support the Sporting Wheelies further in a social context, enjoying the physicality of the ‘Brisbane Bash’ Wheelchair Rugby weekend at Nathan
Sports Complex and selling raffle tickets at the Dolphins v Rabbitohs Rugby League game at Suncorp Stadium. A special mention to Stephen Walmsley, Access Consultant QLD who volunteered his time on the night to sell raffle tickets. They raised $17,000 with $8,500 going to Sporting Wheelies. Stephen personally contributed $1,000. Well done Steve, a mighty effort.
Architecture & Access looks forward to continuing to support Sporting Wheelies to make the new clubhouse in Milton their new home.
