Victoria's Parks More Inclusive Than Ever

Victoria's Parks

Victoria is the first state in Australia to introduce all-terrain wheelchairs to many of its popular parks, making them more accessible than ever.

Parks Victoria's Community Inclusion Coordinator, John Kenwright said this is one of many innovative strategies to help visitors with disabilities and/or with limited mobility to get out and enjoy Victoria's parks and connect with nature.

“In the past three years, we have been introducing all -terrain wheelchairs to more and more parks across the state in partnership with local government agencies. It's fantastic to see people with limited mobility, getting out and experiencing some of our iconic trails using the TrailRider chairs. The children's beach wheelchairs are also proving very popular for families with a child with a disability, wishing to access our many stunning beaches,' he said.

All-terrain wheelchairs for visitors may vary in design from park to park and are available in the Grampians, Wilsons Promontory, Cape Conran and Point Nepean national parks, Buchan Caves Reserve, Brimbank , Coolart Wetlands and Homestead. They are also available at selected shires close to the Great Otway, Alpine, and Mornington Peninsula National Parks and other park locations.

Victoria's Parks

One of the many visitors who used the chairs said: “The adult beach wheelchair has allowed me to visit the beach for the first time since my horrific car accident 12 years ago.”

Mr Kenwright said other states are now showing interest in the all-terrain wheelchair program and utilising Victoria's expertise and experience with this visitor equipment.

Other initiatives:

• A portable electric stair climber has recently been introduced to Buchan Caves Reserve and this allows children and light adults with mobility limitations access to sections of the spectacular Fairy Cave for the first time. Prior bookings are essential.
• Parks Victoria has developed an electric motorised version of the TrailRider all terrain wheelchair that allows visitors easier access to the more hilly trails. This is now available in selected park locations.
• Wilsons Promontory National Park and Cape Conran Coastal Park are equipped with accessible self-contained cabins. These feature accessible bathrooms and electric high-low beds. A personal hoist and specialised bathroom equipment including a shower commode chair are also available.
• A Sherpa Volunteer Program has been introduced in the Grampians National Park, where visitors can book trained volunteers to take them out in the TrailRider chairs. The service is free but bookings are essential.
• Parks Victoria has constructed an accessible canoe launcher at Kings Billabong Park.
• Improved park access information on Parks Victoria's website including photos and descriptions for more than 38 of Victoria's most visited parks.

For more information contact Parks Victoria at www.parks.vic.gov.au and visit the Accessibility and Inclusion page or call 13 1963.