By VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS
THE DANDENONG Ranges is opening new avenues in disability access to national parks with the introduction of a TrailRider, a modified all-terrain wheelchair.
David Stratton from Newstead near Castlemaine has been working closely with Parks Victoria to bring the invention here after using one when on holiday in Canada.
The TrailRider is a cross between a rickshaw and a wheelchair and can handle more rugged bush trails than conventional wheelchairs.
The addition of the TrailRider in the Dandenong Ranges means there are now 11 all-terrain wheelchairs available to explore Victoria’s park trails.
The chair is motorised and has the ability to navigate the rough bush terrain in the Dandenong Ranges, making it easier for visitors with limited mobility to enjoy more of the ranges.
John Kenwright, Community Inclusion co-ordinator for Parks Victoria said the new wheelchair opened up possibilities for people to enjoy the parks and trails that they might not have been able to previously.
“Everyone has the right to enjoy the benefits of being in nature, and we want to help everyone to be active in our parks. This is just one way we are making this possible,” he said.
The TrailRider is located at Grants on Sherbrooke cafe at Grants Picnic Area in Mount Dandenong National Park. It can be booked by calling 9755 2888.
