Determination of one Renishaw Hills’ resident improves Scottburgh Beach inclusivity
Rather than slowing down, she embraced new challenges.
Scottburgh Main Beach has become a more inclusive destination thanks to the determination of one Renishaw Hills resident and adaptive sports advocate, Sue Martin.
She successfully raised the funds needed to secure a specialist beach wheelchair that will be freely available for people living with disabilities.
“The initiative is welcome news for local families and visitors, opening up one of the KZN South Coast’s most popular beaches to even more people. A massive thanks to Sue and all those who contributed for their efforts in this really worthwhile initiative,” notes Barto van der Merwe, managing director of Renishaw Property Developments, a subsidiary of Crookes Brothers Limited.
Martin managed to raise R60, 000 in just six weeks through a community-driven BackaBuddy campaign in partnership with the Quadriplegic Association of South Africa (QASA), with additional funding from family, friends, fellow Renishaw Hills residents, and Renishaw Property Developments, all supported by DA Councillor, Dana Daniels.
“This has never just been about buying a wheelchair. It’s about giving people the freedom to experience the ocean with their families, creating a more inclusive community, and showing that disability should never prevent someone from enjoying our beautiful coastline. The support from everyone who contributed has been incredible, and I hope this is only the beginning,” said Martin.
ALSO READ: Granny Grommets show the community camaraderie of Renishaw Hills
The specialist all-terrain wheelchair is housed at Surfers Paradise at Scottburgh Main Beach, where anyone living with a disability can use it free of charge during operating hours. Users simply leave an item such as identification, car keys or a cellphone while using the chair, ensuring it remains available for everyone.
Looking ahead, Martin hopes this is the first step in creating a fully accessible beach experience, with plans to introduce beach access mats, additional disabled parking, accessible facilities, and regular adaptive surfing opportunities.
Sue knows first-hand how life-changing accessibility can be. An accomplished adventurer who has completed events including the Comrades Marathon, Two Oceans Marathon, Midmar Mile, Cape Town Cycle Tour, Amashova, Berg & Bush, Sani2C, numerous triathlons, and even climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, Martin’s life changed dramatically following a mountain biking accident in 2015 that left her wheelchair-bound.
Rather than slowing down, she embraced new challenges. She has since become actively involved in adaptive sports, including para-cycling and adaptive surfing, recently claiming second place in her division at the 2026 South African Para Surfing Championships.
Her passion for making the outdoors accessible reflects the outdoor lifestyle enjoyed at Renishaw Hills. Residents regularly participate in activities that make the most of the KZN South Coast’s spectacular coastline, forests and trails.
Among the most popular is the Granny Grommets, the inspiring ocean group introduced to Scottburgh by former Renishaw Hills resident, Yvonne Klopper and Pennington resident, Jewels Blackbeard.
Every Thursday morning, the group gathers at Scottburgh Main Beach for surfing and bodyboarding, supported by Scottburgh Lifesavers, proving that age is no barrier to enjoying the ocean.
For those who prefer exploring on foot, the Renishaw Hills Walkers enjoy an extensive network of scenic routes across the estate, through Renishaw Coastal Precinct, and along the beachfront. Groups range from brisk road walkers to relaxed strollers and trail walkers exploring farm roads, indigenous forests, and coastal paths.
