Wheelchair tennis program at PA Hospital’s Bunya Ward
A new wheelchair tennis program at Princess Alexandra Hospital’s Bunya Ward is transforming the rehabilitation experience for patients, serving up physical activity and connection.
The program, which launched in late 2024, is the first of its kind in Queensland and is already making a meaningful impact on patients adjusting to life as an amputee.
PAH Physiotherapist Heather Batten said the idea was sparked during her Churchill Fellowship in 2022, where she explored rehabilitation programs overseas.
“It inspired me to come back and think, how can we create better partnerships with community sport?” she said.
“Not necessarily for people to win medals, but for the wellbeing of sport, learning something new and enjoying group activities. That’s the main goal.”
That vision became reality after Heather connected with wheelchair tennis athlete and coach Naomi Oliver at a ParaSport event. With support from Tennis Australia, the program was established at PA Hospital.
Heather said the response from patients has been overwhelmingly positive.
“The difference in mood and the camaraderie has been really exciting to see. Peer support is so important when people have a new disability, and this is an easy way to foster that.”
Naomi understands firsthand the challenges of rehabilitation, after being in the hospital’s Spinal Injuries Unit herself in 2003.
“The value of having sport come into that space is huge,” she said. “It breaks up the intensity and gives people something fun to focus on instead of just staring at four walls.”
“Seeing the smiles and the willingness of patients to try something new, and the joy that brings them is just fantastic.”
The sessions cater to all experience levels, from those who have never picked up a racquet to those showing natural talent.
Bunya Ward patient Isi said the sessions have become a highlight of his week.
“It gets me out of bed,” he said. “When I hear tennis is on, I get excited. It’s so much fun and now I want to do this outside of the hospital.”
That enthusiasm is exactly what tennis coach Drew Parker hopes to inspire.
“Just seeing the smiles from everyone, that’s the biggest thing,” he said.
“Hearing someone say they enjoy waking up because they know we’re coming, that’s what it’s all about.”
Since the program began, participation has steadily grown, along with players’ skills and confidence.
“It started with two people, and it’s gradually grown and grown,” said Drew. “The improvement has been really great to see.”
Well done to everyone who has played a role in making this incredible program possible at PAH!