Thanks to an almost $10,000 grant from Member for Farrer Sussan Ley, the store’s rusty old swing doors have been replaced with automatic sliding doors.
While a hazardous step which used to sit at the entry way has been torn down and the entire front of the store levelled for smooth access.
For RRGC regular Peter Hyden, who can be seen zipping around the course at least four days a week on his all-terrain wheelchair, the renovations are a godsend.
‘‘It’s a dignity thing for me, now I can bring my chair into the shop,’’ he said.
‘‘Before this I had to knock on the window so someone could let me in.
‘‘People have been very supportive here but still, it shouldn’t have to be this way in this day and age.
‘‘And it’s not just important for people who are in a wheelchair like me, but also for older people who come here on their wheely walkers.’’
RRGC all abilities coach Steven Loader said having Peter at the club highlighted the need for greater accessibility to the shop.
‘‘When we look back, it makes so much sense to have this entry way, it makes you wonder why you didn’t have it before,’’ he said.
‘‘I soon approached the national inclusion manager and he set me down the path to apply for the grant and it all went from there.’’
Ms Ley said the Liberal Party was pleased to help with the grant.
‘‘Rich River Golf Club is an absolute destination landmark on the Murray when it comes to high quality golf clubs,’’ she said.
‘‘This modest grant is for a better entrance for anyone with a disability.’’
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