Helensburgh & District News
September 2007 - Vol.17 No.8

Skate injuries on the rise

By Michelle Neathercote

The  new skateboard park in Helensburgh has led to a ‘worrying’ rise of skateboard related injuries, with local health professionals concerned about skate park users not wearing protective gear or being aware of safety issues while using the facility.

“We have noticed there have been more skateboard related injuries than usual in the medical practice since the new skate park had opened and we know of other young people being taken by ambulance to Sutherland or Wollongong hospitals,” said Dr Trevor Kemper a GP from Helensburgh Family Practice.

“Usually it is wrist, elbow, knee and head injuries and doctors in our surgery have spoken to skateboarders recommending that they wear protective gear such as helmets and guards.”

The $400,000 Helensburgh Skate Park was officially opened by the Wollongong Lord Mayor last month. One local resident who helped establish the skate park said accidents are “mainly due to kids and adults not knowing how to ride or lack experience riding in a park”.

“They see experienced riders, skaters and guys on bikes and scooters doing tricks they have been practicing and building up to for many months or  years, who make it look easy,” said Eric.

“There have been a few collisions between different riders but that can happen anytime. There is a an unwritten set of rules amongst riders that usually works well so I’m sure this will sort it self out as time goes by.”

A spokesperson for Wollongong Council said they are “currently investigating safety signage with regard to industry standards and protocol for participation at the Skate park, with Council staff including Risk Officers working on an action plan to address any areas of concern”.

One suggestion is that a committee be formed to discuss general safety, appropriate behaviours and protective gear and to look at ways of how the space could be equitably and respectfully shared among users.

Dr Kemper said he would be keen on young people helping to develop a Code of Conduct around the skate park’s use, so that skaters could respect each others ‘right of way’,  avoid collisions and help younger skaters better understand the skating environment.