Fitted with supportive armrests, the chairs are positioned in the theatre area where visitors can watch a presentation on John Forbes and the rich history behind the museum.
Once the chairs arrived, Rochester Lions volunteers assembled them ― a generous contribution from a valued community organisation.
Museum volunteer Sam Watkins said the museum wanted to create a safer viewing experience for older visitors and people with mobility difficulties, allowing them to sit down and stand up independently.
The museum had found volunteers needing to physically assist some visitors with the old chairs ― creating safety concerns for both.
“We wanted to allow visitors to have their independence, and make them feel like don’t need to be assisted all the time,” Ms Watkins said.
The new chairs have already been well received by aged-care groups regularly visit, the museum from Rochester, Echuca and Shepparton.
“It’s a way to show our visitors we do care about their welfare and we try to present the museum in a friendly, safe way which encourages anyone to attend,” Ms Watkins said.
The Rochester Sports Museum is open Thursday through Sunday, with group bookings available outside regular hours. Individuals, school groups and community organisations are all warmly encouraged to visit.
The upgrade was made possible after the museum successfully applied for a Campaspe Shire Access and Inclusion Grant, securing $2200 in funding in June to cover the cost.
