Gymnastics Nelson gets accessible upgrade
Indie Carter, 2, enjoys the upgraded space at Gymnastics Nelson during a preschool session, with the new mezzanine area visible in the background. Photo: Kate Russell.
It has been three years in the making, but Gymnastics Nelson has completed an extensive upgrade to its Mosey Grayson Memorial Gymnastics Centre.
Around 3500 volunteer hours and $190,000 have gone into the project, and now they have a space that fosters inclusivity and accessibility within the community.
Project coordinator, Cindy Mosey, says an accessible lift, accessible bathroom facilities, and a new club entrance make the gym more welcoming to diverse groups.
It also boasts a new office, as well as a mezzanine, which works as an extra area for gym-goers and is also the ideal viewing spot.
“It means more space for gymnasts, families, school groups, holiday programmes, and events.”
Cindy says the upgrades have allowed them to introduce some new classes, including ‘Functional Fitness’ for children and youth with disabilities.
“This class is already full, with a waitlist.”
They are also piloting a ‘Forever Active’ 55-plus class and one for former refugees and migrant communities.
Club president, Dennie Capell, says other classes, such as their preschool sessions, adults’ gym, ‘Gym for All’ sessions, and kindergarten visits have benefited from the upgrade, with memberships growing.
This past year there has also been a big focus on replacing old equipment to ensure inclusivity, such as specialty spotting platforms, safety matting, fat landing mats, safety foam, beams, pommel, bar, bar safety matting, and a mini tramp.
“It is a much more flexible and safer space for our expert coaches, some of whom have been here for more than 20 years,” Cindy adds.
Support for equipment and programmes came from fundraising efforts and grants from Mainland Foundation, Pub Charity, Lion Foundation, Tu Manuwa Active Aotearoa, Foodstuffs South Island Community Grants, NCC Hapori Team, and OneFortyOne.
Cindy says they were fortunate to receive funding support for the upgrade from the New Zealand Community Trust, Te Puna Tahua Lottery Grants Board, and Rātā Foundation, while local businesses helped make up the shortfall to complete the project.
These include Mitre 10 Mega Nelson, Blacks Fasteners, Carpet Court, Design Windows, Allied Concrete, Absolute Energy, HTL, Contour, PlaceMakers, Aotea Electric, Veridian Glass, Kitchen Studio Nelson, Walker Painting and Decorating, Make Furniture and MenzShed Waimea.
She also says several people donated their time to the project, including life member Stuart Hughes, who designed the upgraded space.
For more information on classes at Gymnastics Nelson, visit here.