Rockhampton launches inclusive tourism initiative

Rockhampton

Advance Rockhampton, the key agency for tourism, marketing, and major events in the area, has initiated the Explore Rockhampton Accessible Tourism Campaign. This campaign is designed to aid local tourism operators in accommodating the needs of disabled travelers more inclusively, offering them the necessary information to efficiently plan their visits. The effort underscores the region’s commitment to enhancing travel experiences for all visitors, emphasizing the importance of accessible tourism.

Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams emphasized the campaign’s role in fostering an environment where all tourists, regardless of disability, can enjoy travel experiences with confidence and choice. He highlighted a significant gap in the global tourism industry, pointing out that a large portion of travelers with disabilities struggles to find the necessary accessibility information for confident travel planning. This insight underpins the campaign’s mission to address and fill this gap.

The significance of this initiative is further underscored by data from Tourism Research Australia, revealing that travelers with disabilities and their companions contribute a substantial amount to Australia’s tourism revenue. This demographic represents a crucial market segment that the campaign aims to better serve.

Zac Garven, Manager of Advance Rockhampton Tourism and Events, detailed the campaign’s phased approach, starting with a focus on mobility inclusiveness, followed by catering to the needs of those who are hard of hearing or deaf, and those with low vision or blindness. The campaign aims to address the diverse needs of travelers with disabilities through a broad spectrum of experiences and accommodations.

The campaign promises to provide detailed, professional content that includes technical specifications and personal experiences to help travelers make informed decisions. This initiative is not only a testament to Rockhampton’s commitment to accessibility but also showcases the region’s diverse offerings, from wildlife encounters to fishing adventures, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

Amit Rana from TruFusion expressed pride in participating in the campaign, highlighting the importance of empathy and inclusivity in enhancing the travel experience for visitors with disabilities.

Finally, the campaign features a dual-faceted online presence with resources for both consumers and local operators. It leverages collaborative efforts, including insights from Get Skilled Access and contributions from individuals with disabilities, to promote a more inclusive and accessible tourism industry in Rockhampton.