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A day at the beach is the perfect way to relax and connect with friends and family, but it’s also something many of us take for granted. For many people living with disabilities, accessing public beaches remains incredibly difficult.
Now, one determined Scottburgh local is changing that.
Adaptive surfer and adventurer, Sue Martin, is leading a community-driven campaign to bring Scottburgh Main Beach its first all-terrain beach wheelchair. After launching the Scottburgh Beach Wheelchair Drive through BackaBuddy, Sue has already raised nearly the full R60 000 needed to purchase the specialist chair, with a small amount left to go towards final touches such as secure storage, paint and protective covers.
“I’m ever thankful to everyone who has supported the campaign so far,” says Sue. “We are almost there and can’t wait to bring the wheelchair to Scottburgh Beach.”
Promoting inclusivity for bathers
She explains that Scottburgh Main Beach is keen to achieve Blue Flag Beach status, and inclusivity is a major part of that. While adaptive equipment is stored by the NPO, Made for More in Durban, as well as the Wheels on Waves sandcruisers at Amanzimtoti Beach, there’s nothing currently available on the KZN South Coast.
Once the wheelchair arrives, it will be available free of charge for anyone living with a disability to use at Scottburgh Main Beach. Visitors will simply swap an ID document for the chair during use, making it an easy and accessible community resource.
“The beach wheelchair is a simple yet powerful way to promote inclusivity, dignity and equal access,” she says. “Everyone deserves the opportunity to experience and enjoy the ocean.”
No obstacles for Sue
Sue knows firsthand how important accessibility can be. A freak mountain biking accident in 2015 left her paralysed from the chest down, but it never stopped her adventurous spirit. Over the years, she has continued ticking off bucket-list experiences that include shark diving, surfing, para-cycling and adaptive sports.
Most recently, Martin took second place in her division at the 2026 South African Para Surfing Championships in Durban, hosted by Made for More alongside Surfing South Africa.
“Made for More’s commitment to adaptive surfing is incredible,” she says. “You can only wish for more inclusivity like this.”
How you can help
Help Sue reach the target by supporting the Scottburgh Beach Wheelchair Drive campaign on BackaBuddy!
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