We’ve improved accessibility and inclusivity for patrons of Norlane Aquatic and Recreation Centre (ARC) with the installation of new automatic doors leading to the
warm water pool area.
The original
doors were heavy and required manual operation, posing a challenge for community
members with mobility issues. They often needed assistance from staff, carers,
or fellow patrons to access the space.
Following
community feedback, the City installed new automatic doors, which have transformed
the experience for many by making the warm water pool hall more accessible and
welcoming.
Since the
installation, feedback from patrons has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have
reported that the automatic doors have significantly improved ease of access
and safety.
Verna, patron
I absolutely love them. I couldn’t use the other doors and had to get
someone to help, as I was frightened that I would fall. It’s brilliant now - I
walk through them like I own the place!
Lin, patron
The new doors are the best thing ever! I’m so impressed
because it was really hard before and if I was here on my own, I would need
help opening the doors.
This upgrade
supports the City’s commitment to creating an inclusive environment where all
community members feel a sense of belonging, in line with our Disability Access and Inclusion Plan 2024-28.
Greater
Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM
The large, cumbersome doors were not
user-friendly for those with accessibility needs.
From the
very start, we’ve wanted Norlane ARC to be transformative for our northern
suburbs through its exercise and wellbeing facilities.
Once staff
heard that the original doors were creating a barrier to independent access,
they took meaningful action to improve accessibility and customer satisfaction.
We thank
community members for speaking up and sharing their challenges with staff.
Councillor Anthony Aitken
Council is focused on helping to facilitate community members getting active and
maintaining a healthier routine.
As chair of Council’s Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee, it
is encouraging Council has been able to address this issue.
I hope the other accessibility improvement concerns identified
can be resolved going forward, to enable the Norlane ARC to reach its full
potential and inclusiveness of this wonderful investment in our northern
suburbs.
Our recent 2024 Geelong Preventative Health Survey found that 92
per cent of people with disability self-reported lower levels of health,
compared to 42 per cent of those without disability.
Warm water exercise is low impact and especially helpful for
people living with disability and other conditions, managing chronic pain, or
recovering from injury.
Ensuring access to this pool reflects the key priority areas in our
Disability Access and Inclusion Plan.