Tandem mobility scooter gives pair independence

The Scooter Club, first formed in 2007, provides an informative social outlet for community members who rely on mobility scooters to lead a fulfilling and independent lifestyle. 

Ellen Brown became a scooter user eight years ago after experiencing debilitating leg problems. The avid traveller can lead a normal life using her scooter. It goes with her everywhere and is even fitted with number plates which are required by scooter users in Queensland.

“I’m not really a driver, but I can pop it on our caravan and travel around when we are on holidays,” Ms Brown said. 

“It does give me a sense of independence. I can go from my place to St John’s hospital.”

Scooter users must stick to footpaths if they are available. If there are no footpaths they are able to ride on roads but must stick left. Scooter drivers must not exceed a speed of more than 10km/h and must adhere to pedestrian rules.

Ms Brown has a flag on her scooter. She has worked with Ballarat City Council to improve accessibility in her area. She used to not be able to travel a certain stretch because of over-hanging branches and inaccessible footpaths.Now she can.

Chair of the disability advisory committee to council Belinda Coates said council had recently audited the number of charging points available to scooter users. A survey found an increase in battery life for scooters meant  public charging points were no longer a priority, allowing council to direct funds to priority areas.

Group co-ordinator Ann Hull brings in different experts to teach members about road awareness, scooter mobility and general safety.

Mobility scooter user Robert Carpenter built his own tandem scooter which he rides with Joyce Bourke. The duo attract a great deal of attention when they ride and Ms Bourke said people often asked if they could snap the pair’s picture.

Call 1300 971 720 to join the club.