Shire recognised for improving beach accessibility
The Shire of Augusta Margaret River’s efforts to improve beach accessibility have been recognised at WALGA's 2026 Most Accessible Communities Western Australia (MACWA) Awards.
The MACWA Awards recognise local governments that demonstrate leadership, commitment and innovation in creating accessible and inclusive communities, ensuring people of all abilities can participate in community life.
The Shire received a Highly Commended award for its beach matting trial at Gracetown Swimmer's Beach, which was delivered during summer 2024–25 to improve access for people with disability and limited mobility, as well as families with prams.
With the support of Enable WA, the Shire installed 40 metres of beach matting as part of an eight-week trial, creating an accessible pathway across the sand and improving access to the beach environment.
As home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to enjoy them was identified as a priority in the Shire's Access and Inclusion Plan 2023–2027.
The response to the trial was overwhelmingly positive, demonstrating how relatively simple initiatives can make a meaningful difference for people living in and visiting the region. The Shire is now exploring grant funding opportunities to purchase additional beach matting, with the aim of installing it at Gracetown each summer.
This is the eighth consecutive year the Shire has been recognised in the MACWA Awards, and is a testament to the important work of our Inclusive Communities Advisory Network (ICAN), which has been instrumental in identifying barriers, championing inclusive initiatives and helping create a more accessible community for residents and visitors alike.
Read more about our Access and Inclusion Plan and ICAN here.