Surf Life Saving retracts its ban on beach wheelchairs

Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) has responded to an outcry from the Disabled Surfers Association of Australia (DSAA) who protested on Monday at Bondi Beach over the SLSC’s alleged ban on amphibious wheelchairs.

In a press release, the SLSA said they can confirm that no ban on beach wheelchairs is in place and all beach wheelchairs currently operated by clubs are covered under SLSA’s insurance.

This statement comes after an email, dated November 30, gave directions to clubs to destroy, dispose of or return beach wheelchairs to organisations that donated them because they were not insured.

‘‘Considerable problems have occurred with these in the past and NO cover will be granted,’’ the email said.

This sparked outrage and spokesperson for DSAA, Jim Bradley, said “Surf Life can insure jetskis, helicopters, 4-wheel-drive vehicles and even dangerous national surf carnivals.

“It would be laughable to suggest that beach wheelchairs present anywhere near the same level of insurance risk.”

Surf Life Saving Australia chief operating officer Peter George said on Monday the email had been retracted after they became aware of the issue just after Christmas.

Mr George said Surf Life Saving was an inclusive organisation and no wheelchairs had been destroyed.

The SLSA is now working to ensure national operational procedures are in place for the safe use of beach wheelchairs.

By Kira Sprucys-Tahar and Kristie Beattie