Pictured left to right: Kelvin, Mitch and Jakob at SWIRL 

When Smithton Wellbeing Indoor Recreation & Leisure (SWIRL) in Tasmania upgraded its gym this month, the team deliberately selected equipment with accessibility features for members. This decision has turned out to be an investment that is already transforming the everyday experience of those who live with disability.  

Creating an accessible gym requires intention, investment and sometimes challenging conversations, but the rewards for members are clear to see at SWIRL – such as in Kelvin and Mitch, long-standing members of their community with diverse needs. 

The power of inclusive design 

“Kelvin and Mitch are dedicated members of our venue,” shared Herath Pitawala, Venue Manager at SWIRL. “Seeing their happiness reminds us not only why creating an inclusive and welcoming environment at SWIRL is so important, but also how vital it is for building a stronger, more connected community. 

Examples of accessible equipment added to SWIRL’s new gym include a bilateral upper‑body ergometer for both seated and standing use, with wheelchair access; recumbent bikes, which offer a comfortable and stable riding position that reduces strain on the back and joints; and cable machines and free weights, which are essential tools for disability support workers delivering functional strength training. The team has also designed the gym layout to ensure it is fully accessible for wheelchair users. 

“It has been an absolute pleasure for us to work with local disability support groups such as the Wyndarra Centre, Circular Head Aboriginal Corporation (CHAC) and Multicap Tasmania to support with our members’ journeys toward fitness and wellbeing,” he concluded. 

Kelvin’s story 

For Kelvin, who lives with reduced mobility, SWIRL is a place where he can gain strength and independence. “I work out to keep myself out of a wheelchair as long as possible – If you don’t use it, you lose it. 

“I didn’t expect to enjoy it here as much as I do now. The best place to relax is the pool.” 

He believes venues like SWIRL are essential to maintaining his connection with community. “It’s like a multipurpose hub for the public,” he continued. “I enjoy the social aspect and saying hello to others here.”

Meet Mitch 

Another member, Mitch, who benefits from quieter, less cluttered environments, has been with SWIRL since the venue first opened its doors in 2019. For Mitch, movement is key to staying strong and having the upgraded gym has opened new possibilities. 

“He loves the new gym equipment,” his mother Ross shared. “He comes to get moving as much as possible to stay fit.” 

“It’s beneficial for everyone regardless of whether you have different needs or not,” she continued. She also noted that the space itself makes a difference. “It’s not cluttered or busy, so it’s perfect for Mitch and others. I recommend anyone to give it a go.”

Like Kelvin, Mitch also enjoys the social environment; the highlight for him is “meeting people and having a good chat with them.” 

As part of our commitment to social inclusion, Belgravia Leisure works in partnership with community members and organisations to understand and respect the diverse needs, preferences and priorities of the people we serve. Through co‑design, we create responses that are better targeted, more effective and deliver meaningful outcomes for everyone. 

In designing for accessibility, SWIRL has created a safe, welcoming environment where members of all abilities can thrive. 

Ready to discover inclusive fitness in action? Learn more about Smithton Wellbeing Indoor Recreation & Leisure (SWIRL) here. 

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