Woodman Point Recreation Camp provided a great location for a fun and energetic morning of cycling with members and friends of WA’s deafblind community, as part of the annual Senses Deafblind Camp. Nestled in the historic grounds of the Swan River Colony’s 1886 quarantine station it was also a poignant reminder of the measures needed to exclude diseases with epidemic potential both then, and now.  With forty four participants, interest in the camp was strong despite the reduced registrations due to interstate travel constraints.

The WATCAC “try cycling” contingent consisted of six pilots, three marshals and a volley of tandems.  The group was kept busy throughout the morning providing riding opportunities for around twenty five camp participants, despite in competition with the high wire flying fox that was also doing a roaring trade. A number of volunteer support staff also joined in to share the experience and excitement of being on the back of a tandem.

Our local route ran along the beach front cycle path then opened up on the perimeter road to take participants through a range of riding experiences and back through the grounds.  Over morning tea it was great to meet up with WATCAC members Erica and Greg and chat with other volunteers who were supporting the camp in various capacities.  A big thanks to Beau who anchored the interaction with the Senses camp organisers, lined up pilots and led the morning.  Special thanks also to David 1, David 2 and Steve who worked with our great pilots to help keep everyone safe throughout the morning.

For more information on Senses Australia visit their website here: https://www.senses.org.au

Historic information on the Woodman Point Quarantine Station is courtesy of the State Heritage Office (https://www.inherit.stateheritage.wa.gov.au)