A Sunshine Coast skate business is breaking down barriers, launching a new adaptive facility designed to open the sport to riders of all abilities.
Chiggy’s Skateboarding has unveiled a disability-friendly space and adaptive skate frame at its facility in Coolum Beach.
Owner and director Mat Chigwidden said bringing the adaptive frame to life at Chiggy’s Indoor Skate Park required significant effort and collaboration.
“Preparing the frame wasn’t easy because we purchased it second-hand and the process involved a lot of work,” he said.
“Thankfully, extensive training, advice from some of the coast’s best occupational therapists and support from other local businesses made it all possible.
“We then had it basically rebuilt from the ground up with new wheels, powder coating, harnesses, ropes and everything else in between.
“We also had to complete testing and obtain certification, which took about 18 months.”
Mr Chigwidden, a professional skateboard coach, has been running Chiggy’s Skateboarding since 2013.
He said demand had been strong since announcing the new offering.
“The response has been huge. All very positive and exciting. We have received significant interest, resulting in many enquiries regarding our lessons, events, expos, shopping centre activations and a lot more.
“This frame will open up more opportunities for many more people across Australia by allowing us to offer it to a wider, more inclusive audience.”
Archie, a local boy, was one of three participants who used the frame at the launch event.
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Mr Chigwidden acknowledged the community effort behind the project’s success.
“On behalf of the team and I, I would like to thank everyone who has worked alongside us to make this possible,” he said.
“We are super excited to make our indoor skatepark and events more inclusive.
“If anyone would like to try it out, please don’t hesitate to reach out, we are here to help.”
Adaptive frame lessons are now available to book online, giving more people the opportunity to experience skateboarding in a supportive environment.
