Travel Without Limits #6 by travelwithoutlimits

without limits

Planes, trains and automobiles

11 accessible journeys that are the destination

CHRISTMAS IN NYC AUSSIE AIRLINE ACCESSIBILITY REVIEWED POWERING THROUGH HOBBITON VOL 6 | SEPTEMBER 2021 RRP AU$14.95

Disneyland | Costa Rica | North Island NZ | Rome

READERS PHOTOS

01 - Ros and Ringo (Seeing Eye Dog) at Uluru sunrise. 02 - Harry the jump master and Rami from Germany skydiving at Franz Josef, New Zealand. 03 - Nicko at Shotover Canyon Swing Queenstown, New Zealand.

Image: Cocky Guides

04 - Ziptrek Ecotours Queenstown, New Zealand.

READERS PHOTOS

Images: MakingTrax

Hello!

We are so happy to be bringing you the sixth issue of Travel Without Limits magazine. The world continues to feel the effects of the pandemic but with vaccination rates on the increase and various strategies to get travel and other industries back on its feet, we feel positive and hopeful. The Paralympics has certainly been a wonderful distraction and in this issue we have Robyn Lambird (Tokyo bronze medallist) sharing her travel tips. Although many travellers focus on their destination, anyone with a disability understands one of the greatest challenges can be finding an accessible way to get there and tour the sights. With that in mind we decided to focus our spring/summer issue on the many transport options that can help you explore the globe. While Australians are unable to travel freely at the moment, there’s no better way to beat the lockdown blues than planning for the future. The best accessible holiday outcomes are the result of meticulous research and tips from other travellers with lived experience. We are lucky to have a team of contributors who love sharing their travel challenges and triumphs in the hope it will lead to smoother travels for others. As always, we’re keen to keep in touch in between issues. You can email me at julie@travelwithoutlimits.com.au. If you have a story to share or think there is a topic you would like us to cover just let us know. And sign up to our mailing list at travelwithoutlimits.com.au and follow us on Facebook – facebook.com/travelwithoutlimits Happy travels! Julie

Founders Julie Jones & Janeece Keller

Art director Jon Wolfgang Miller

Executive Editor Julie Jones

Contributors Sophie Cullen Kimberly Graham Sarah Hinder

Sub-editor Bev Malzard

Cover image: Matt Wong, iFLY

Julie Jones Arran Keith Carrie-Ann Lightley Marlena Katane Janeece Keller Sheree Strange Nicole Thibault

Published by

Travel Without Limits Pty Ltd - ABN 90 633 273 560 | PO BOX 4061, Carlingford North NSW 2118

Copyright © Travel Without Limits Pty Ltd 2021 ISSN 2652-0656. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Every endeavour has been made to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is correct at time of going to print. All reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders. Travel Without Limits Pty Ltd cannot accept unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. If such items are sent to the magazine, they will be returned.

22 88 CONTENTS Access All Areas 6 News

12 Hit the road Accessible car rental companies 14 3 places to stay cool in Sydney this summer 18 Accessible Australian beaches

Cover Story

22 Planes, trains and automobiles From the Polar Express train ride to a camel tour in the Sahara. Here are 11 accessible experiences where the journey is the destination.

Travel

36 The Jolliest place on earth Christmas at Disneyland in California lights up Disney magic

42 Christmas cheer in NYC New York City sparkles with extra glitz and glamour in the lead up to Christmas 46 Around the world in a wheelchair Marlena Katene test drives modes of transport around the world 52 The perfect holiday haven The Shoalhaven in NSW promises something for everyone 60 Airline accessibility An in-depth access review of Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar and Rex 72 Longing for luxury? Luxury properties that combine accessibility and glamour

80 Costa Rica High and low sensory sensations 88 Northern Exposure Exploring New Zealand’s North Island 92 The Eternal City Uncovering accessible experiences in Rome 100 Powering through Hobbiton

Tips & tricks

106 The sky’s the limit at iFLY Queenstown 108 Trackside with Paralympian Robyn Lambird 110 Kids Picks 112 Directory

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NEWS: IN THE KNOW Best of Japan, Kyoto

Accessible Japan, train station

Best of Japan, Kyoto

Accessible Golden Route, Kyoto

Images: InsideJapan

INSIDEJAPAN The Paralympics (and the warm-up acts at the Olympics) has inspired everyone to dream of visiting Japan. COVID-19 restrictions mean no one will be jetting off just yet, but InsideJapan is looking to the future and planning a number of accessible travel packages that will make this beautiful country a destination for all. They’ve consulted with Tokyo local

and accessible travel guru Josh Grisdale to develop trips that make the most of what Japan has to offer. He says that Japan is very well-suited to travellers with accessibility issues - and we can see why! Josh and InsideJapan are keen to show off the accessible public transport (96% of Tokyo’s train stations are accessible, and staff are fully trained in providing assistance

where it’s needed), traditional baths (onsen) that have been upgraded for accessibility, and the main attractions that have built-in accessibility features. With Japan becoming more accessible by the day, and travel specialists trained to take the hassle out of booking and planning a trip, we think this might be the next big must-do travel destination!

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CHANGING PLACES AT AUSTRALIA ZOO Australia Zoo has always welcomed people of all ages and abilities, and it's constantly finding new ways to improve access. On July 19, Changing Places Awareness Day, Australia Zoo announced the completion of its latest project, the installation of a Changing Places bathroom. With an adult-sized changing table, ceiling hoist, toilet, privacy screen, and additional circulation space, it will make a visit to the zoo a more comfortable experience for people with high support needs and their carers. “I am exceedingly proud of our team at Australia Zoo who built this remarkable

facility, a passion project that has beautifully come to life,” said Terri Irwin, owner of Australia Zoo and driving force behind the project. “We are so happy to open a Changing Places within Australia Zoo.” The new facility is located near the Admissions area and the Otter habitat, and it’s available to visitors during regular operating hours. It can be accessed with an MLAK key, and a carer can request one from the Australia Zoo team if needed. Don’t forget: carers of visitors who present a Companion Card receive free entry to the zoo, too!

OUT THERE TRAVEL CARE From 1 October 2021 travellers with mobility challenges or health concerns will have a helping hand in Tropical North Queensland, with the launch of Out There Travel Care. Out There Travel Care’s team of qualified travel carers will provide care and support services specifically tailored to people on holiday or planning to visit in the Cairns region. The service offers qualified support carers for a selection of tours and activities from Cairns to Port Douglas. Respite carers provide care services to those in need, allowing the primary carer to take the day off and explore the region. Each respite care day is designed in conjunction with the traveller to ensure it’s full of their interests and passions. Travellers, travel agents and tourism industry providers can book an Out There Travel Carer by calling 07 4255 6888 or by visiting a DCM or Ticket Mates Tour Desk. outtheretravelcare.com.au

Access All Areas

BEAR STREET BANFF, A NEW ACCESSIBLE PEDESTRIAN PRECINCT In Canada, the Rocky Mountain township of Banff, has completed a year-long reconstruction and upgrade project of Bear Street, creating a pedestrian priority street right in the heart of town. Once a commercial hub, Bear Street is now a pedestrian friendly vibrant street, to shop, dine, view galleries, rent bikes, skis or simply relax and take in the Rocky Mountain vistas. The street is accessible for varying degrees of mobility. There are no curbs, and the street is one level from buildings on one side of the street to the other, making it wheelchair accessible. Landscaping and trees provide ample shade for people lingering on the street, while the pattern of block pavers encourages visitors to criss-cross the space and experience all that this alpine street has to offer. For more information on visiting Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada see banfflakelouise.com

BEACH WHEELCHAIRS IN TASSIE The Wheels to Waves Crew and Tasmanian Leaders have come together to roll out a fleet of beach wheelchairs with Surf Life Saving Tasmania. This initiative will enable people with disabilities and their families to make the most of days at the beach this summer. Head on down to Surf Life Saving Tasmania clubs at Bicheno, Ulverstone, Port Sorell, and Kingston Beach to get yourself kitted out for a day of surf and sand.

LITTLE WINGS

One-year-old Heath has had a tough first year of life. An injury caused severe burns to his left hand and arm, and he makes regular trips to Westmead Children’s Hospital, in Sydney for treatment and rehabilitation therapies. Normally, this would mean a sixhour car ride for Heath and his family, but Little Wings has stepped in to help. Little Wings is a charity that provides free, professional, and safe transport services to sick children and their families in regional and rural New South Wales. They make it possible for kids to access specialised medical services that are only available in major cities. Long-distance travel isn’t fun for anyone, and Little Wings does everything they can to ease the financial and emotional burden for these families. Heath’s recovery is going well, and he’s never short of a cheeky smile and a cuddle to share. Little Wings is proud to be part of this little fighter’s team. littlewings.org.au

Access All Areas

SEATTLE-TACOMA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (SEA) The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is well on the way to reaching its goal of becoming the most accessible airport in the U.S. Several years ago, the airline partnered with the Open Doors Organisation to identify ways they could improve the travel experience above and beyond the requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). Now, their Accessibility Advisory Committee helps them prioritise areas for improvement and implement changes. “Accessibility is so much more than being able to physically access a space; it includes being able to participate in the airport experience safely, communicate needs, and understand what may be required

to navigate the airport,” said committee member Stacia Irons. Before you even reach the airport, the SEA offers you the SEA Social Story, developed for travellers with sensory sensitivities to help them navigate the airport and the realities of travel. The SEA was also the first airport to introduce the Sunflower Lanyard to passengers with hidden disabilities who may need extra help or flexibility when travelling; just Ask SEA! (the newly launched voice app for Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa) where to get one. SEA also recently opened North Satellite, ‘home of the N gates’, with facilities and upgrades that will make travel easier for travellers with a disability. Two state-of-

the-art family rest-rooms include adult changing tables and other equipment not available in most U.S. accessible bathrooms. A Sensory Room provides respite for people who struggle with the overstimulation of airports and travel. And it’s not just humans who benefit: SEA’s integrated pet relief area includes restroom-grade ventilation, full plumbing, and a safe space for service animals to rest and recharge. With more improvements and additions in the works, the SEA is leading the way in making flying and travel a more comfortable and accessible experience for travellers with a disability. Let’s hope more airports follow suit. portseattle.org/sea-tac

Access All Areas

ACCESSIBLE RESTAURANTS As all foodies know, there’s always a new trend on the come-up, and it looks like the next one will be: accessibility. For people with disabilities, dining in a restaurant can present any number of challenges, and it might be easiest to just stay at home. Restaurateurs with lived experience of disability are working hard to change that. Contento, a new casual Peruvian dining venue in New York City, is the brain-child of Yannick Benjamin and George Gallego, who both use wheelchairs. Benjamin particularly wanted to shift the ‘annoying’ power dynamic of having bartenders look down on people in wheelchairs when they order a drink…among other things. So, at Contento, half of the bar is lowered, there is ample space between tables so that wheelchair users can navigate easily to their seats, the accessible bathroom is on the same floor as the dining area, and there is a QR code on the menus that people with visual impairments can scan to have their phones read for them. These small changes, and many more, make dining out a truly enjoyable experience for people with disabilities-as it should be. contentonyc.com

Craig & Guide Dog Rocko

Closer to home, chef Craig Shanahan has opened The Blind Chef Cafe & Dessert Bar in Sydney’s western suburb of Penrith. This welcoming and inclusive space offers people with disabilities the opportunity to dine with delight, without the stress. Menus are available in large print, Braille, and on a tablet with voice output. There is level access throughout, ample space to navigate a wheelchair, and a large unisex stand-alone accessible bathroom. If patrons are lucky, they might even get to meet Craig’s Guide Dog, Rocko! Small changes make a world of difference to restaurant patrons with disabilities. Not only do they make the dining experience more pleasant, but they encourage everyone to think more creatively about what they can do to make everyday experiences more accessible for all. facebook.com/thebccafepenrith

Access All Areas

MAGICAL BRIDGE The Magical Bridge Foundation has teamed up with CuriOdyssey Museum in San Mateo,California to develop an innovative and inclusive new physics-inaction playground. Whoosh! removes the physical and social barriers of traditional playgrounds, while encouraging young minds to engage with state-of-theart science. Conveniently located near CuriOdyssey’s zoo and a beautiful tree grove, the huge playground will be a big drawcard for families of kids with additional needs. curiodysey.org

CHANGING PLACES NZ When you’ve got to go…! Changing Places bathroom facilities have made a huge difference in the lives of many people with profound and complex disabilities across the U.K. and Australia. Thanks to the tireless efforts of Kiwi carer Jenn Hooper MNZM, a growing network of these facilities is now available to people in New Zealand who need a little more than what the standard accessible bathroom can provide. After four years of research, identifying obstacles to the roll-outs in other countries and finding creative solutions, Jenn opened the first Changing Places facility in New Zealand in 2018. There are now three facilities open (Hamilton Gardens, Westfield Newmarket, and Rokokauri Transport Hub), and four more due to open before the end of summer. One of the most exciting innovations Jenn has implemented is a secured

access system. Upon registration, each member in New Zealand is issued with an electronic tag which provides access to any Changing Places facility nationwide. The system works so well that the U.K. is hoping to use it for future builds! Changing Places facilities in New Zealand also offer a ceiling- or wallmounted track hoist, an adult-sized changing table with a shower, and a screen or curtain for privacy. All essential features are height-adjustable, and there is adequate space for at least two carers to assist. Jenn recently won a Pressalit Innovation Award at their Summit For The Future, as voted by attendees, for her work as Founder and Lead Designer for Changing Places NZ. “Changing Places create inclusion for those that, up to now, have always been excluded,” she said. To support Jenn and find out more, check out the Changing Places New Zealand Facebook page.

FUN FOR EVERYONE WITH THE ACCESSIBILITY CARD The new Accessibility Card (IAC) is a free resource for individuals who need to request accommodations or assistance at amusement parks and attractions in the USA. Created by The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), the IAC helps identify what accommodations an individual needs and then expedite the process of getting the support needed. Registration is free and the card works in over 25 Certified Autism Centers™ in North America. Any Individual asking for accommodations due to a disability or other condition can register for the IBCCES Accessibility Card. Examples of conditions that are supported through the IAC are Alzheimer's, autism, dementia, Down Syndrome, deafness or hearing loss, limited mobility, pregnancy, PTSD and vision impairment. The IAC card is valid for one year following the registration date and can be renewed as many times as needed. accessibilitycard.org

Access All Areas

HIT THE ROAD A road trip can be the ideal way to see more of the places you visit, but finding a hire car that suits your needs can be tricky. Here are some companies offering accessible vehicles for travellers with additional needs.

INTEGRITY CAR SALES AND RENTALS Our friends at Integrity Car Sales and Rentals offer vans and cars for hire through their easy online rental platform Chair Share. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a crosscountry trip, they have a cost-effective shortor long-term rental to suit your needs. Vehicles are available at 20+ Australian locations, and they provide detailed information about capacity and measurements to help you make your selection.

WHEELIES VAN RENTAL Wheelies Van Rental goes above and beyond to ensure you have peace of mind throughout the booking process and to know exactly what you’re getting when you arrive to collect your vehicle. Their converted vehicles save a lot of time and effort with transfers, and have plenty of space for luggage and passengers. With fleets in Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns, Hobart, and the Gold Coast, you can experience their excellent service up and down the country.

GOGET ACCESSIBLE CARSHARE GoGet is Australia’s leading car share network, and they’ve recently added a GoAccessible membership plan. Operating from their pod at the Royal North Shore Hospital, GoGet’s modified wheelchair access vehicle is perfect for short trips around the city. The company worked with people with lived experience of disability to ensure that the transport and parking options on offer would suit people with additional needs.

NATIONWIDE MOBILITY VEHICLES At the moment, Nationwide Mobility Vehicles operates primarily in South East Queensland, but they are ready and willing to go the extra mile for travellers with additional needs. All of the vehicles in the fleet are automatic, air-

conditioned, and come with 4-point Mobility tie-down systems and seat belts. They can also work with you to find a solution that fits with your NDIS requirements, if applicable.

EUROPCAR Europcar is a Global Mobility Solutions provider, which has partnered with Automobility to offer a fleet of converted Kia Carnival vehicles for accessible travel. These automatic and spacious cars are available at select locations across the country, with quick confirmation upon request. Whether you’re hitting the highway or cruising around town, their vehicles are reliable and serviceable for travellers.

WHEELIE CAMPERS If you’re keen to get off the beaten track, Wheelie Campers can help you make it happen. They offer both supported travel and self-drive vehicle hire, along with a wide range of modified campervans and accessible accommodation recommendations (including reviews from other travellers with disabilities). The team will take the stress out of your adventure, and provide an all-inclusive travel plan with your specific needs in mind.

HERTZ Hertz promises exceptional wheelchair user comfort, space, and visibility in their fleet of vans modified by Automobility. With rear access for wheelchairs and five passenger seats, and an aluminium ramp with spring assistance, their vehicles are suited to families looking to holiday together. Plus, their staff will provide demonstrations of all accessibility features to make sure you get the most out of them on your trip.

TOP TIPS FOR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLE HIRE 1. Make sure you book as far in advance as you can. As travel options open up, accessible vehicles book out quickly. 2. If the right vehicle is essential for you to get around at your destination, it’s best to check availability prior to booking flights or accommodation. There may be a very limited number of accessible vehicles available, sometimes just one of each vehicle type. 3. Check for hidden fees! A one-way rental (pick up and drop off at different locations) can sting if you’re not expecting the charge, and insurance isn’t always great value. 4. Speaking of insurance: sometimes it’s more affordable to take out general travel insurance which covers car hire excess, rather than using the company’s option. 5. Take photos before you get behind the wheel. Capture the interior and the exterior of the vehicle so there can be no disputes about the car’s condition when you return it.

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Dexterity Sensory Mobility Books & Education

1. DEXTERITY: A NEW GRIP ON LIFE Whether you’re adapting to a new injury or looking for a new and easy solution, dexterity-friendly products are a great choice to make simple tasks a little easier. Our dexterity-friendly collection features easy grip, simple use and handsfree products. Highlights include hands-free toothbrushes & water bottles, easy to grip makeup and easy to use kitchenware!

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THREE ‘COOL’ PLACES IN SYDNEY TO BE THIS SUMMER With warmer weather ahead, it’s good to know the places to go to cool off. Check out these accessible options for getting wet and having fun in the sun this summer.

1. DAWSON-DAMER WATER PARK

2. CURRY RESERVE WATER PLAY PARK

3. SOUTH CRONULLA BEACH

The Dawson-Damer Water Park in Sydney’s south-west offers a range of accessible activities to suit all tastes and abilities, from tame water fountains to the big bucket feature. When you need to dry off, there’s a Changing Places bathroom facility with plenty of room to change chairs and clothes. The ample accessible parking and multiple Hippocampe wheelchairs available to borrow makes this the perfect spot for family gatherings with more than one wheelchair user. Location: Corner of Dick Johnson Drive and O'Toole Avenue, Oran Park

Curry Reserve Water Play Park is free to enter, and sure to be popular with families this summer. Relax in the shade, get hands-on in the Discovery Stream, or brave the Beach Ball Soaker. There are Hippocampe water wheelchairs available to borrow, and an accessible bathroom built to Changing Places specifications. With a public barbecue and plenty of seating, this is a great all-day spot! Location: 24 Camden Valley Way, Elderslie

The Sutherland Shire Council has recently added even more options for people with access needs to enjoy the stunning views and coastal walks at South Cronulla Beach. If you get in touch ahead of time, you can arrange a wheelchair (Hippocampe, Freewheeler, or power wheelchair), beach matting, and accessible parking right in front of the Surf Life Saving Club. The stand-alone uni-sex accessible bathroom also has a shower, if you need to rinse off the sand and ocean spray.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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equipped with superior quality Wheeleez polyurethane balloon wheels provide the perfect solution. They will take you further and more comfortably than you would think possible. If you are heading off for a day trip, these all-terrain chairs will fit into any regular car boot. There is no need for a van, minivan, or station wagon with these foldable and easily disassembled chairs. If it is a longer holiday you have in mind, the Sandcruiser® and Sandpiper® will also fit in a roof pod, so your car boot will be free for all the other holiday essentials. Reconnect with the amazing outdoors and start planning your summer adventures with Sandcruiser® and Sandpiper®!! Feel the freedom and go anywhere with WheelEEZ®! Contact Beachwheels Australia for a product trial or further information… 0417 613566 or 0435 916 391.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

ATSA Independent Living Expo, Canberra – Ready for You This November Do you need a compact power wheelchair? Looking for daily living aids or mobility devices? Searching for the latest in Assistive Technology for a client? Know someone who needs to update their lift chair, bed or commode? Don’t know where to start with a vehicle modification? Visit ATSA Independent Living Expo, Canberra, 24-25 November, where you will find solutions to all those challenges and more! Better yet, it’s free to attend. There are anticipated to be more than 70 exhibitors displaying products and offering services to cover many needs. View the exhibitor list for Canberra www.atsaindependentlivingexpo.com. au/canberra-exhibitors The new venue for 2021 is the Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC) which provides easy access and plenty of parking. In addition to the exciting innovation and new products on display this year, ATSA Independent Living Expo, Canberra has a very strong seminar program. All sessions are free to attend. You just need to preregister. The diversity in the seminar program is

set to be very engaging, from the practical to the informative there is something for everyone. Due to COVID safe practices seating is more limited than usual – remember to book early! When you pre-register you not only receive free access, you also receive free parking and a coffee. You can also rest assured knowing all COVID safe plans are in place. And for those in the industry, remember you can gain CPD points from attending. Presenting for the first time at ATSA Independent Living Expo, Canberra are Emma Clarkson and Helen Lindnar from Mobility and Accessibility for Children in Australia (MACA). They will be covering “High Standards: An overview of the standards, products and practices that promote safe restraint options for Australian children with disability and medical conditions travelling in motor vehicles”. Rebecca Bateson from the Therapeutic Goods Administration will also be presenting for the first time, on “Changes to the regulation of assistive technology – An update from the TGA on the latest

regulatory changes impacting the assistive technology sector”. Other speakers include: NDIS, NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, Tracee-lee Maginnity and Rachel Fabiniak, Permobil Australia; Craig Slattery, Para Mobility; Amin Akbarian, Mobility Engineering; Amy Bjornson, Rob Norman and Tilly Brook, Sunrise Medical; Joana Sanitago and Jamie Cockle, Medifab and Lauren Hunter, Linds Rehabilitation Equipment. These are just some of the fantastic presenters you can learn from at ATSA this November. ATSA Independent Living Expo, Canberra key links View the full seminar program here: www.atsaindependentlivingexpo. com.au/program-2021-canberra REGISTER FOR FREE TODAY www.atsaindependentlivingexpo. com.au/register Spread the word to your friends, family, colleagues and broader network! We’ll see you there. Any questions please email events@atsa.org.au or call 1300 789 845

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HENLEY BEACH, SOUTH AUSTRALIA Henley Beach is one of Adelaide’s favourite city beaches. It has a Changing Places facility, accessible by MLAK key at Henley Square. Beach matting is available 24 hours a day and you can hire a beach wheelchair free of charge for half a day. charlessturt.sa.gov.au

4 ACCESSIBLE BEACHES AROUND AUSTRALIA Going to the beach is an important part of Australian culture. For wheelchair users it’s refreshing to see more and more beaches implementing accessible infrastructure. Here are four of our favourites.

Image: City of Charles Sturt

Image: Surf Coast Shire

Image: City of Rockingham

Image: City of Gold Cost

LORNE, VICTORIA This popular Great Ocean Road beach has Mobi-Mat beach access matting along the beach and to the water's edge. You can also hire a Mobi-Chair beach wheelchair for free from 4 January to Easter between 8am and 2pm. A hoist is available on site, however you will need to provide your own sling. Bookings are essential at least two business days in advance for the Mobi-Chair and hoist hire. surfcoast.vic.gov.au ROCKINGHAM, WESTERN AUSTRALIA There are six spots with beach matting in Rockingham, about an hour's drive south of Perth. The matting is permanently installed at the Singleton Foreshore and in the other locations it’s seasonal (usually October to April) depending on the weather. There are three types of beach wheelchair and two beach walkers available for loan free of charge. rockingham.wa.gov.au BURLEIGH HEADS, QUEENSLAND At the southern end of the Gold Coast there is beach matting and two types of beach wheelchairs are available for use at Burleigh Heads beach. Borrow a Hippocampe or Mobi beach wheelchair for one to two hours when you book through the Surf Lifesaving Club. There is also a Changing Places toilet facility accessible with an MLAK key. burleighslsc.com.au

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ONE CHAIR: LOTS OF USES

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Sharky can be easily adjusted to clear the height of most toilets. This means the child can remain seated while being cleaned and avoid unnecessary transfers, especially when wet. It also comes with a handy, removable rear seat section to improve access for hygiene and cleaning.

IT’S SUPER TRAVEL-FRIENDLY

Sharky is an ideal pack-and-go bathroom chair – and can be easily folded either with or without the seat on the frame. Alternatively, the backrest can be easily removed from the seat base, creating three easy-to-carry sections for ease of transport. The compact design also makes it a huge space-saver when at home. When not in use, it can be quickly and easily folded away, leaving more of the bathroom available for others.

SIMPLE, TOOL-FREE ADJUSTMENTS

Sharky offers an impressive range of comfortable postural supports, ensuring the child is kept well-positioned throughout their bathroom and toileting care. The tilt, back recline and leg elevation functions are all easily adjusted using the one-handed mechanism. This makes it easy to manoeuvre for parents and caregivers of different heights, as well as different bathroom layouts. All in all, Sharky really is the ‘take anywhere’ bathroom chair! To find out more and watch the full video series, visit www.medifab.com.au, or reach out to our friendly team on 1300 543 343 or via email, solutions@medifab.com.

Access All Areas Intrepid New York

London Transport Museum

5 TRANSPORT MUSEUMS

Planes, boats and automobiles and all things with moving parts that move, chug along, fly and float - in some of the world’s best transport museums. 1. MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY IN CHICAGO Focus: transport innovation and development Highlights: Boeing 727, U-505 submarine, Pioneer Zephyr, ships gallery, The Great Train Story, Transportation gallery. Accessible offerings: Food allergy friendly, service animals welcome, AEDs throughout the museum, ASL interpreters, sighted guides, scripts and assistive services, wheelchair accessible and manual wheelchairs available, exhibit guides (including sensory notes and tips), sensory maps and communication books, social narratives, noise-quieting headphones. msichicago.org

2. BRITISH MOTOR MUSEUM Focus: Historic British cars Highlights: 300 classic British cars, Time Road motoring history, Sports Cars, hands-on Under The Skin interactive display. Accessible offerings: PDF access guide (including images of parking spaces, measurements of doorways, etc.) available on website, wheelchair access, assistance animals welcome, dropped counters,

hearing loop system, wheelchairs available for loan, free admission for assistants, large-print information, guided tours, touch tours, interpreters, charging stations for mobility scooters, disability awareness training for staff. britishmotormuseum.co.uk

3. BEAULIEU UK (NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM) Focus: Cars and motorcycles Highlights: F1 cars, speed record breakers, toy cars and pedal cars, luxury vehicles Accessible offerings: downloadable access guide, disability awareness training for staff + regular access audits, assistance dogs welcome, free wheelchair/scooter hire, wheelchair access, lowered counters, hearing loops, touch tours for visitors with visual impairments, sensory play equipment and tactile games, quiet spaces, large print information beaulieu.co.uk/attractions/nationalmotor-museum

4. LONDON TRANSPORT MUSEUM Focus: Urban transport Highlights: Hidden London collection, Over ground Underground.

Accessible offerings: Free companion entry, step-free access + lifts and ramps, induction loops and subtitles, assistance animals welcome, large print guides and magnifiers, Family SEND Explorer events (for families with Special Educational Needs, including Autistic Spectrum Disorder) including sensory bags and supported exploration. ltmuseum.co.uk

5. INTREPID NEW YORK Focus: Military ships; Sea, Air & Space Highlights: a new Douglas F4D Skyray, Aircraft Carrier Intrepid, Space Shuttle Pavilion, Submarine Growler, British Airways Concorde. Accessible offerings: wheelchair accessible, free admission for carers/ support workers, Social Narrative and digital guide, sensory guide, visual vocabularies, lightweight stools for extra seating, sensory bags (headphones, fidgets), verbal descriptions and tactile guides, assistive listening devices and systems, access programs for individuals and families (including ASL interpreters). intrepidmuseum.org

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Staying connected to the world with the Luggie Scooter 'You need to be organised and determined to be a part of it' Ray Kirkwood has spent his life 'being a part of it'. He played 2nd division football for Hawthorn, was secretary to a regional board of education, and ran a Travel Agency for a decade. After a diagnosis of MS, some things changed, but many stayed the same. Getting about has become more difficult, but he has remained connected to the world and to his community. A descendant of the Victorian Premier George Kerferd, he organises the presentation of the medal at the annual Kerferd Oration. He is involved with the local council as an advocate for accessibility. He volunteers on a Gippsland University project researching public transport accessibility. It's safe to say Ray is both very organised and very determined. He is also one of the very first Australian adopters of the portable travel scooter. Back in the late 2000s there were only a couple on the market. Now there are dozens, designed to cater to all sorts of needs and preferences. But Ray has remained with his trusty Luggie, a little machine that has repaid that trust many times over. 'It's surprisingly robust, and it's small enough that I can go almost anywhere that someone can walk', Ray says. And the list of places Ray has gone is certainly surprising. From the snowy Japanese Alps to a lazy Mauritian beach, and just about every altitude in between, Ray has put the Luggie through its paces. Aeroplanes, buses, cruise ships and the car boot – the scooter is manoeuvrable enough, and can fold compactly enough, to handle them all. But it's on the domestic front that the Luggie truly changes lives. For Ray, it means going to the Gym, slipping out the front door for a coffee, or enjoying the nearby lake. It means his excited grandkids clamouring around as they all shop at the loud Queen Victoria Markets. It means a weekend away with the family at Inverloch, or a sculpture park with a big white monkey, its gravel paths unexpectedly accommodating. It means connection. For more information on the Luggie brand of scooters go to www.scootersaus.com.au or phone 1300 622 633

COVER STORY

PLANES TRAINS AUTOMOBILES

From the Polar Express train ride to a camel tour in the Sahara, here are 11 accessible experiences where the journey is the destination. WORDS: JANEECE KELLER

COVER STORY

. TAKE A YELLOW WATER CRUISE, NORTHERN T E R R I T O R YB AUSTRALIA Yellow Water Cruises take guests through the heart of Kakadu – offering a spectacular journey through the UNESCO World Heritage listed wetlands. The Indigenous-owned Yellow Water Cruises takes you on a discovery tour through the rich wildlife, dramatic scenery and ever-changing landscape of the world-famous Yellow Water Billabong. This is crocodile country, so you’re almost guaranteed to spot a croc in its natural habitat and wild buffalo on the floodplains. Kakadu is home to nearly one third of Australia’s bird species. Keep your eyes open for eagles, the distinctive Jabiru and, if you’re lucky, you might even see a Brolga dancing. Yellow Water Cruises are either 90 or 120 minutes in duration and offer a year-round spectacle. The different seasons provide a rich and ever-changing glimpse into flora, fauna and bird life in Kakadu. kakadutourism.com

The Polar Express is a classic holiday story of a child’s Christmas Eve journey aboard a vintage steam train. First it was an award-winning book by Chris Van Allsburg and it was made into a movie in 2003. Now this magical tale is an annual event in Colorado, USA. During November and December the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is transformed into The Polar Express™ Train Ride. Board the train as it departs the station in Durango and sets off for the North Pole to pick up Santa. Sip hot chocolate and listen to the story of the Polar Express en route to the North Pole. When you arrive, you’ll experience an incredible light show set to holiday music. The train excursion is roughly 65 minutes; allow two hours for the entire adventure so you can enjoy the full experience. Wheelchair accessible boarding available. durangotrain.com

Image: Tourism NT/Peter Eve

Y . RIDE THE POLAR EXPRESS, COLORADO, USA

Image: MakingTrax

COVER STORY

˚ G A FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER TOUR, F R A N Z J O S E FB NEW ZEALAND Explore the Franz Josef Glacier, or, as it’s known in local Māori legends, Kā Roimataa-Hine Hukatere (the frozen tears of Hine Hukatere) by air and by chair. Thanks to the speciality MakingTrax ski-chair and the team at The Helicopter Line, wheelchair users can disembark the helicopter on top of the glacier and explore the snowy spectacle. From its origins high in the Southern Alps, the Franz Josef Glacier descends into the lush native rainforest of Westland Tai Poutini National Park National Park. This descent occurs from a height of 3,000m above sea level to 500m over a distance of 9km, making it one of the steepest glaciers in New Zealand. Seeing the glacier from the helicopter is spectacular. And for the more adventurous, getting out of the helicopter and moving around on the ice and snow takes the experience to a whole new level. Once the helicopter lands on the glacier, the guides quickly assemble the ski-chair, which means that passengers travelling with a disability or mobility restriction can get out and experience being on the ice. makingtrax.co.nz

COVER STORY

¸ . SOAR WITH ARTHURS SEAT EAGLE, VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA

. DO THE LOCOMOTION THROUGH THE ROCKIES, VANCOUVER TO TORONTO, CANADA

Traveling through the Canadian Rocky Mountains is an experience like no other. After falling asleep to the rhythmic rolling of the coach, you will wake up in a completely different province and time zone. Canada’s VIA Rail is a wonderful way to slow travel across the country, enjoying scenery, cities, and people along the way. When you ride “The Canadian” which runs between Toronto and Vancouver, the journey takes four days - if you don’t get off along the way. The best time to traverse Canada by train is winter. Tickets are much cheaper than during high season and there are fewer people to compete with for views. “It was an amazing trip and the crew

Image: Via Rail

Gliding quietly through the sky in a gondola at Arthurs Seat Eagle you could be forgiven for thinking you’ve been transported a million miles away, rather than one hour’s drive from Melbourne. With uninterrupted views, framed by swaying gum trees and birdsong, grazing kangaroos and the trace of the distant coastline, you are immersed in a truly majestic Australian landscape. It’s an awe-inspiring journey as you ascend quietly up Arthurs Seat to the summit where you’ll find some of the best views of the Mornington Peninsula, across Port Phillip Bay towards the city skyline, along the coastline and beyond. aseagle.com.au

were great about helping us on and off the train for snow play at 4am when the train was stopped at a station,” said Toni Green of her The Canadian journey in 2019. “We had the Accessible Cabin which sleeps two people and access is via a lift,” she said. “Once in the cabin my daughter could only go as far as the bathroom or the entry to the train but the window was large and provided us some amazing views through The Rockies.” The support provided by the Via Rail team was exceptional. “Meals were brought to the cabin as we could not get to the dining carriage with my daughter’s chair,” said Toni. ”They blended the meals she chose.” viarail.ca

COVER STORY

˝ . A EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISE ON THE MS VIOLA, RHEIN RIVER, GERMANY European river cruising is not often wheelchair accessible, especially for those people who travel with a power wheelchair. The MS Viola however is fully accessible for people with physical challenges according to Syliva Longmire from SpinTheGlobe.net “The luxurious, accessible cabins on this ship are unique and what many have been waiting for,” she writes. The MS Viola cruises in view of tulips, windmills, historic cities and farmlands of Germany, Holland and Belgium. There are four itineraries scheduled for 2022 and voyages are either six or eight days long. When it comes to on board amenities, “the bathrooms are shared but private; it has two doors to two rooms,” writes Sylvia. “When a guest from one room is using the bathroom, it’s automatically locked for the other room.” The ship was completely renovated in 2019, has 4 decks and can accommodate up to 122 passengers. On the Sundeck, which has elevator access, you’ll find a sun terrace where you can sip a cup of coffee and enjoy the constantly changing view. phoenixreisen.com

COVER STORY

˛ . AN AMERICAN WINNEBAGO ROAD TRIP, FLORIDA, USA smooth ride no matter where you’re taking it. To be honest, I was shocked at how smooth it was,” he said. On his Winnebago road trip, Cory Lee stayed in four Florida campgrounds. At Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine the campground is right near the beach which has a beach access mat and complimentary beach wheelchairs. Cory Lee’s favourite campground

was Ocean Breeze Resort at Jensen Beach. It “has every amenity that you can imagine, making it a luxurious place to stay,” he said. “There was a huge zero-entry pool, a fitness centre, billiards room, a restaurant and bar, and many of Jensen Beach’s shops and restaurants were just a short walk/roll away, including the beach.” curbfreewithcorylee.com

Image: Curb Free with Cory Lee

For many, an RV trip through America is a bucket list experience. Traditionally wheelchair users have found it very difficult to find a motorhome that suited their needs. When Winnebago released its AE (Accessibility Enhanced) line of RVs, that changed. Cory Lee road tested a Winnebago Inspire AE along Florida’s east coast. The RV “is upscale and provides a

COVER STORY

—. iFLY INDOOR SKYDIVING, WORLD WIDE LOCATIONS iFLY franchises around the world offer indoor flying experiences for ages five to 105 years of age with no experience necessary. Unlike skydiving from a plane, where you jump and fall several thousands of feet, at iFLY you fly gently on a cushion of controlled air. It offers all the thrills of flying minus the danger. iFLY’s philosophy is that regardless of physical or cognitive challenges, everyone should be given the opportunity to spread their wings. “I highly recommend you get in touch with the guys and they will organise two instructors

Visit Australia's oldest National Park, the Royal National Park, for a 10km walk along the famous Lady Carrington Drive. Lady Carrington Drive is an historic carriage route that follows the Hacking River upstream from Audley to Sir Bertram Stevens Drive. The well maintained bush track crosses 15 creeks, each identified by its Aboriginal name. For those who are blind or have low vision, Cocky Guides have a sensory tour where you can get up close to tall blue gums, turpentines, sandstone caves and rainforests. You’ll hear waters flowing through the creeks, incredible bird calls and you might even hear the mimicking call of a lyrebird. cockyguides.com.au

Image: Matt Wong, iFLY

ˇ . LADY CARRINGTON DRIVE WALKING TOUR, SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

if you have higher needs,” said Marlena. “I’m a wheelchair user and have spent approx. 20 minutes in the tunnel now. Do it, you will love it and then be wanting to do the real thing, she said. The Sydney and Gold Coast iFLY centres offer ‘All Abilities Nights’. They are events that have been custom designed for those with physical and cognitive challenges. The team creates an environment of support and inclusion, while focusing on making what seems impossible, possible. iflyworld.com.au

COVER STORY

Y ˙ . A CAMEL DESERT SAFARI, MERZOUGA, MOROCCO

Desert. The interplay of colour and light creates Insta-worthy photo opportunities. Morocco Accessible Travel Consultants offers guests the opportunity to trek through the Erg Chebbi sand dunes with their adaptive camel saddle. The saddle has a backrest and headrest providing comfortable support while the rider soaks in the experience. ““It felt as if I was sitting in my wheelchair on top of the camel, surprisingly comfortable,” said Cory Lee. “I’ll never forget looking out and seeing the sand dunes as I rode the camel. It was a surreal moment for me.” moroccoaccessibletravel.com

Image: Curb Free with Cory Lee

Have you ever wanted to experience the romance and mystery of riding out into the desert atop a camel? Head to the charming Saharan village of Merzouga, with a backdrop of orangecoloured sand dunes where you will feel wonderfully isolated - as if the modern world has been left behind. The Erg Chebbi dunes are the biggest and most spectacular in Morocco. This vast sea of shifting, wind-swept sand forms picturesque, undulating crests and valleys. During a morning ride, camels and their passengers cast shadows across the Sahara

COVER STORY

YY. STEP BACK IN TIME ON THE MARY VALLEY RATTLER, GYMPIE

Step on board one of the meticulously restored Mary Valley Rattler trains and travel along the tracks that have been brought back to life. Sit back, relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Mary Valley. Your journey from Gympie station will take you through the Mary Valley and the picturesque small town of Dagun to Amamoor, an historic town bordered by the Amamoor State Forest. Here the train will turn around on the restored turntable. You can watch this fascinating process or explore the quaint community of Amamoor. Foodies will enjoy the local Mary Valley produce on The Rattler Tasting Train, which includes an on-board tasting plate and lunch at the Historic Gympie Station featuring a local seasonal menu and a beverage of your choice. maryvalleyrattler.com.au

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Freedom To Go Further

Experience more autonomy, flexibility and the freedom to go further with a custom wheelchair that’s as individual as you are. Pair it with the power and endurance of a Batec and there’s no stopping you! Mogo is a proud distributor of Batec solutions and creator of custom wheelchairs in Australia and has been for over 40 years. To continue taking people further, we’re combining the comfort of our custom wheelchairs with the capabilities of Batec. The advanced technology includes features such as ultra-thick tires, reverse gears and all-inone screens that can take you through the city or bush. With access to these solutions, children, adults and families alike are enjoying more experiences, exploring new places together and travelling further than ever before. One of these families are the O'Donovans who recently travelled to the Northern Territory with their Batec. The user-friendly design allowed adventure and exploration, taking them across all types of terrain with ease and style. They visited Australia’s iconic landmark, Uluru, explored the rich and rugged landscape and cheered on their favourite racers at the Fink motorbike rally. When you think of adventure, maybe this is what comes to mind. Or perhaps it’s zipping in and out of inner-city streets, or winding your way through trails in a rainforest. Whenever you want to go and whatever you want to do, we have the wheels to take you there. Go with Mogo. W. www.mogowheelchairs.com.au P. (02) 9708 5255 E. info@mogowheelchairs.com.au

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Feel the joy of reaching milestones - no matter your age! Starfish is all about setting you up to succeed, with products that support you to be the best you can be. Let us help you develop the skills you need to achieve your goals. And YES, we are NDIS providers!

RIGHT PRODUCT, RIGHT TIME

With the right support and the right tools, everyone can get where they want to be! We have an extensive range of Low Cost, Low Risk Assistive Technology and Consumables. Our educational, sensory, and specialised items will help you in your journey. Working towards a goal doesn’t have an age limit: we cater to teenagers and adults, as well as younger kids! Our products help users with: • Language and vocabulary • Literacy • Functional maths (telling the time, using money) • Fine and gross motor skills • Self-care • Oral input • Noise cancellation • Vestibular and proprioceptive input • Calming and self-regulation • Skills for independence • Educational consultancy (specialist intensive tutoring) And lots more! Whatever your goal, and whatever you need to get there, we can help.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT STARFISH

We walk the talk! We are an

inclusive employer. Our team includes people from a range of cultural backgrounds (including members of the local Koori community) and people who have lived experience of intellectual and physical disabilities. Our staff draw on a wealth of experience in helping you find the solutions you need. They’re also highly trained, with higher qualifications in Adult Dyslexia, Special Education, Early Childhood education, NDIS Support Coordination, and more. We are located on premises specifically chosen for accessibility. Take advantage of accessible parking, lowered counter-tops, and other universal design features that will make your visit a breeze. If you prefer to shop online, we offer click-andcollect as well as a unique virtual shopping experience! Yes, virtual shopping! If you can’t get to the store, we’ll come to you via Zoom or Facetime! Simply book an appointment online at a time that suits you, and our customer support team will give you an unforgettable one-on-one virtual shopping experience. Plus, we have a rewards program: earn reward dollars every time you shop with Starfish! This is available to all, including NDIS customers and families. You can even use your reward dollars to purchase gifts for others! Let us help you develop the skills you need and you will achieve your goals - we can’t wait to celebrate with you! starfishstore.com.au

36 The Jolliest place on earth Christmas at Disneyland in California lights up Disney magic 42 Christmas cheer in NYC New York City sparkles with extra glitz and glamour in the lead up to Christmas 46 Around the world in a wheelchair Marlena Katene test drives modes of transport around the world 52 The perfect holiday haven The Shoalhaven in NSW promises something for everyone 60 Airline accessibility An in-depth access review of Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar and Rex 72 Longing for luxury? Luxury properties that combine accessibility and glamour 80 Costa Rica High and low sensory sensations 88 Northern Exposure Exploring New Zealand’s North Island 92 The Eternal City Uncovering accessible experiences in Rome 100 Powering through Hobbiton

AROUND THE WORLD IN A WHEELCHAIR

THE

OLLIES J T

PLACE ON EARTH

There’s an intangible magic unique to the Disney brand. A Christmas infused holiday at Disneyland and California Adventure Park elevates that feeling to the next level. Children’s imaginations are ignited, and adults, released from the daily grind, feel free to unleash their inner child. WORDS & IMAGES: JULIE JONES

We’ve been fortunate to walk through the Disney Park gates many times and I always take a moment to read a plaque with a quote from Disneyland’s creator, Walt Disney: “I think most of all what I want Disneyland to be is a happy place…..where parents and children can have fun, together.” Walt Disney’s dream has certainly been realised and our family has always had a fun-filled accessible experience. The clever theming for the various holidays and seasons means no two visits are the same. These transformations keep returning guests engaged with Easter, Halloween and Christmas events proving major drawcards.

PLENTIFUL CHRISTMAS TREATS

Although it looks like Tinkerbell has waved her wand, it is in fact the Disney imagineers’ keen eye for detail that transform the parks into a wonderland at every turn. From the characters’ clothing to the cute foodie treats, you’ll find a nod to the season wherever you look. Each land is given a Christmas makeover with appropriately themed wreaths, garlands and twinkling lights. Cameras are sure to be in overdrive with so many photo opportunities. Take a special snap under the Radiator Springs Christmas tree decorated with hub caps or pose with Minnie Mouse decked out in her finest festive dress in Toon Town. When the sun goes down the atmosphere intensifies. Disneyland’s centrepiece, Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, drips in dazzling lights and crowds gather to watch the Christmas parade that should not be missed. Mickey Mouse and pals, the Disney Princesses and all your Toy Story character favourites travel through the park on opulently decorated floats, accompanied by dancing reindeers and snowmen. Check with Cast Members for directions to reserved accessible viewing areas. 

Right: Christmas themed food at Disneyland, Everyone loves the Disneyland Christmas parade

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR DISNEY DAYS

While it’s wonderful to wander around the theme parks in blissful fascination, you’ll soon realise time quickly gets away from you and you’ve missed out on some of the essential rides and those treats you’d gushed over on Instagram while researching your trip. Some planning is required, especially during the most popular times of year such as Christmas. Download the Disneyland app before you leave home and familiarise yourself with its features. The app allows visitors to see what’s on in the parks, book Disney dining, buy tickets and more. The ability to check on the accessibility of rides and any restrictions is particularly helpful when you’re on the go. Staying at one of the Disney owned hotels will not only ensure you remain in a Disney fantasy bubble for your stay, but they offer accessible accommodation and easy access to the parks. Prior to Covid, guests staying at a Disney hotel received an Extra Magic Hour to enter the parks before opening to the general public. While this is currently suspended, it is hoped it will be available again in the future. Making the most of this hour by targeting the most popular rides helps to avoid the long queues which build during the day. While in Disneyland we used the Disney MaxPass which was a pay-for-use FastPass booking system and the ultimate time-saver. In late September this will be replaced by Disney Genie+ service which allows you to choose the next available time to arrive at many of the park’s popular rides. On arrival at the ride you will be able to use the Lightning Lane entrance, avoiding the usual lines. At an additional USD$20 per ticket per day it’s an expensive addition for families but the time saved each day may make it more cost effective in the long run.

WHEN TO GO

Above: Christmas parade time at Disneyland Below: Radiator Springs gets a festive makeover

The parks maintain their festive makeover from November to January. We visited Disneyland and California Adventure Park ten days before Christmas and although busy, the crowds were not overwhelming. Due to the changing COVID-19 restrictions at theme parks please check the Disneyland website prior to booking as some experiences may not be operating disneyland.disney.go.com

Walt Disney’s dream has certainly been realised and our family has always had a fun-filled accessible experience

NEW DISABILITY ACCESS SERVICE (DAS) OPTION

Minnie Mouse in her best Christmas dress

Disneyland Resort theme parks endeavour to provide information and facilities to ensure guests of all abilities have the best possible experience. The parks offer guests who find it difficult to tolerate extended wait times in a queue due to their disability, access to the Disability Access Service (DAS) program. From late September 2021 Disney is introducing a new option to register for the program virtually with a Cast Member via live video chat up to 30 days prior to your arrival at the park. During the chat visitors will also be able to select up to two experiences per day (subject to availability) using the new DAS Advance planning option. disneyland.disney.go.com/guestservices/disability-access-service

ADVERTISING FEATURE

The garden beds thrive at Hickey Street

Matthew Lohman loves working in the garden at Casino

Seasonal produce is always on the menu at Frances Street

Green thumbs of the Northern Rivers The Northern Rivers region of NSW is blessed with a subtropical climate and rich soils, making it the ideal place to garden. At Achieve Australia’s homes in Casino, enthusiastic gardeners have been putting their green thumbs to work lately with some impressive results. Service Manager, Karen Moore-Evans, says recent gardening projects have inspired both clients and staff. “The four people we support at Frances Street have different support needs, so it has been a chance to build a new garden that everyone could get involved in and enjoy,” explains Karen. “We don’t have to go to the shops to buy produce as much either since we are growing a lot of our own food.” At the Frances Street home, the team started by removing an old hedge in the garden to make room for some vegetable garden beds. The people we support then got involved in planting seeds, maintaining the gardens and watering the plants with support from staff as needed. Today several flourishing patches are filled with seasonal fruits and vegetables, including zucchini, tomatoes,

squash, cabbage, pumpkin, watermelon, strawberries and much more. Along with keen gardeners, the team say the secret to their success is the alpaca manure from a staff member’s farm. Over at the house on Hickey Street in Casino, the gardens have also been receiving lots of care and attention. Originally created during Achieve Australia’s Creating Home Competition in 2018, the garden at Hickey Street has continued to develop and thrive under the watchful eye of client, Matthew Lohman. “We started out with just a couple of fruits trees. Now, there’s an Indigenous totem pole, waterproof artworks, a bird bath, fruit trees, vegies and renovated outdoor furniture,” says Service Coordinator for Casino, Shawn Gill. “It’s all been created by the team and the people we support, but mostly championed by one person, Matthew Lohman, who is an avid gardener.” Every day you can find Matthew out in the garden, tending to and watering the plants and lawns. “The garden is a bit of therapy for Matthew,” says Shawn. “Everyone else enjoys sitting out in the garden on a sunny

day or when family and friends come to visit.” There are many benefits to getting out into the garden to either build your own vegie patch or to nurture some potted plants if space is an issue. Stress relief, exercise, healthy eating and increasing our connection to nature are just some of the known health and wellbeing benefits to gardening. Gardens can also be a sensory experience for people. “The gardens are beneficial for people who may not be as involved in the planting or watering. Everyone can still enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of the garden,” says Karen. The benefits also extend to the kitchen where new recipes using the seasonal produce are encouraging home cooking and healthy eating. Right now, there are plenty of zucchinis in the garden and zucchini fritters have been one delicious item on the menu. The gardening project in Casino is reaping great rewards for all involved. Great produce, teamwork, sense of achievement and pride. Why not give gardening a go? info@achieveaustralia.org.au

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Lake Mac Holiday Parks: Blacksmiths Beachside Discover Blacksmiths Beachside Holiday Park located on the beautiful shores of Lake Macquarie, located on the east coast of Australia. Made up of 90 diverse towns and villages, 30km of pristine coastline and some of the most beautiful forests in NSW, there is no shortage of things to see and do.

LAKE MACQUARIE

Located just 90 minutes north of Sydney and a short drive to Newcastle and the Hunter Valley Wine Region, Lake Macquarie is a popular destination for holidaymakers. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, be sure to immerse yourself in the array of activities on offer. Enjoy the serenity of the lake, the sounds of waves as they wash over you at our pristine beaches, explore our natural playground for an adventure of discovery, or visit our large selection of local cafes, restaurants and shopping on offer.

LAKE MAC HOLIDAY PARKS

Lake Mac Holiday Parks offer a range of experiences from beachside getaways to luxury lakeside escapes, nestled on the beautiful shores of Lake Macquarie. Located only a short distance to one of Lake Macquarie’s most popular beaches, Blacksmiths Beachside Holiday Park is an idyllic spot to unwind and relax with family and friends including your beloved pet, offering pet-friendly accommodation and sites all year round.

BLACKSMITHS BEACHSIDE HOLIDAY PARK

Stay in style at Blacksmiths in our selfcontained accessible two-bedroom villa equipped with an access ramp, selfopening entrance door, large circulation spaces throughout, motorised adjustable kitchen benchtops and cupboards, remote controlled blinds and accessible bathroom facilities all at the touch of your fingertips. With a playground, swimming pool featuring ramp access, aquatic chair, pool hoist and nearby activities, Blacksmiths is the perfect beachside holiday destination for creating memories that will last a lifetime.

BELMONT BATHS

Venture out and explore a number of local attractions in the region including Belmont Baths, located at Brooks Parade, featuring a fully enclosed lake swimming area with a jetty, attached accessible ramp and amenities with accessible toilet and shower. A Mobi-Chair is stored on-site for free use and accessible by MLAK key.

LAKE MACQUARIE VARIETY PLAYGROUND

Enjoy the sunshine at the Lake Macquarie Variety Playground located at Speers Point on the northern tip of Lake Macquarie featuring inclusive play equipment, a quiet zone, accessible pathways, toilets and a café onsite.

MAC

Immerse yourself at the Museum of Art and Culture at Booragul. The museum offers inclusive experiences including art exhibitions, classes, and an onsite café. Explore Lake Macquarie, your next adventure awaits! For more information or to make a booking visit lakemacholidayparks. com.au or call 1800 626 438.

CHRISTMAS CHEER IN NYC New York City sparkles with extra glitz and glamour in the lead up to Christmas with plenty of accessible fun for all ages. WORDS & IMAGES: JULIE JONES

The Rink at Bryant Park

ipping cool drinks and the air conditioner cranked up to high, our family gathers each December to indulge in Christmas themed movies. Nothing gets us in the Christmas spirit more than a feel-good festive flick. Elf, Home Alone and Serendipity are some of our favourites. The wintery New York backdrops providing a welcome contrast to our usual hot and humid Sydney weather. Embracing a taste of that Christmas movie magic is easy to do with a visit to New York and it will leave your senses tingling with festive delight. New York is always a bustling, vibrant city and while the lead up to Christmas is no different, it does appear that people are more inclined to take time out from the rat-race to enjoy the spoils of the season.

WHEELS ON ICE

We’d always dreamt of ice skating on an open-air rink surrounded by the New York skyline. While Wollman Rink in Central Park may be one of the most familiar rinks featured in movies, The Rink at Bryant Park is the most accessible. Both power and manual

Rockefeller Plaza Christmas tree & ice rink

wheelchair users are allowed on the ice and adaptive sleds are also available to borrow free of charge. Located in the heart of the city and surrounded by Christmas markets this is a festive choice with plenty of seasonal treats. Accessible entrances are located mid-block on 40th and 42nd Streets, between Fifth and Sixth Avenues.

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Rockefeller Plaza and the surrounding streets offer a one-stop overload of music, lights and Christmas decorations. Even the Grinch would be hard pressed not to be wowed by the statuesque Rockefeller Plaza Christmas tree. When we visited it was a towering 23-metre-high Norway Spruce festooned in 50,000 (give or take) twinkling lights and topped with a Swarovski Star. Christmas toy soldiers stand guard and the Rockefeller Plaza Ice Rink glistens under the bright lights. While in the area it is easy to peek in the Christmas themed windows of Saks Fifth Avenue and watch the 10 storey-tall theatrical light show projected on the Saks Fifth Avenue store façade. 

HIGH KICKING FAMILY FUN

The Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular is a New York institution, with many locals making a trip to the show an annual holiday tradition. Housed in the famous Radio City Music Hall it’s a great spot to escape the winter chill while enjoying the Christmas themed show. Expect to be wowed by the synchronised high-kicking Rockettes as they sing, dance and provide lots of family-friendly entertainment. rockettes.com/christmas

ALL ABOARD FOR GRAND CENTRAL TERMINAL

New York’s major landmarks are all decorated for the Christmas season, but step inside Grand Central Terminal for an extra special treat. Train buffs and young children will delight in seeing the Holiday Train Show with a themed miniature electric railroad housed in The New York Transit Museum’s Grand Gallery.

SANTA CLAUS’ CONVENTION

Clockwise from top: Santacon fun, Grand Central Terminal, Bryant Park Christmas market, Dyker Heights Christmas light displays dazzle, Radio City Music Hall home to the Rockettes

New York’s population is brimming with eccentric characters and Santacon brings out the city’s most colourful. Santacon is a charity event which is described as a “nonsensical Santa Claus convention that happens once a year to spread absurdist joy”. When we found ourselves among a sea of men, women and children dressed in Santa costumes and Christmas jumpers it was hard not to get swept up in the spirit of the day. Santas can be spotted all over the city on the day, spreading a bit of Christmas cheer. Some are cheerier than others depending on how many bars they’ve visited. For event details check - santacon.nyc

LIGHTING UP CHRISTMAS

If the Griswolds owned a suburb it would be Dyker Heights. An area where the home owners are so dedicated to spreading Christmas cheer, many pay lighting professionals to decorate their homes. The displays appeal to all ages with couples, families and multi-generation groups making the pilgrimage to appreciate the displays. Street after street is filled with homes dripping in dazzling lights. Many bus tours operate from Midtown Manhattan, but we chose to book with Free Tours by Foot, the most economical option. We met our guide in Brooklyn and travelled as a group to Dyker Heights by subway. Our guide played Christmas carols, shared fun facts and inside intel on the best displays as we walked the streets. Free Tours by Foot offer accessible tours by prior arrangement. freetoursbyfoot.com/dyker-heights-christmaslights New York offers seasonal surprises at every turn with carollers in the subway tunnels, busking musicians and the most exuberant Salvation Army collectors you’ll ever meet. So, if you find yourself on Santa’s nice list, request a trip for the future. I dare anyone to be bah humbug about Christmas when visiting New York during December.

AROUND THE WORLD WITH A WHEELCHAIR

WORDS: MARLENA KATENE

Exploring the world with a wheelchair is a unique experience and sometimes not for the faint of heart. Most of us know what does and does not work in our local communities, and travelling throws that all up in the air. However, when you consider the risks versus the rewards, travelling is worth all of the inevitable dramas. When I travel,l I try to think ahead (where possible) and research what it is I am about to embark upon. Taking my electric wheelchair is obviously my first choice but sometimes a manual chair opens up the travel destination. When I go on a longer trip I will take both my wheelchairs, which allows me to choose on the day what one will make my trip more accessible. For those of us willing to get off the beaten track a little, there are many adventures to be had that are waiting in this wonderful world of ours. My biggest travel tip for a wheelie is to work out the transport from the airport to your accommodation as a priority, stay central to major cities, and go from there. Here are some of the modes of transport I have used as I travelled around the world. Some of them have been amazing for access, and some might be best left to the more adventurous wheelie traveller.

METRO MONORAIL (DUBAI)

Dubai is always worth a stopover. I have been to Dubai a few times, mostly using taxis despite the difficulties, and the last time I thought I would try something different. The Metro monorail line gets you to all the major touristy spots and it’s cheap as well. I would consider it accessible for all modes. dubaiairports.ae/before-you-fly/to-from-theairport/by-metro

MOTORBIKE WITH SIDECAR (PARIS)

Paris is beautiful, but it can be tricky for a wheelchair user to get around. The public buses are accessible, but if you want to try something different, check out the motorbikes with sidecars. You will need to transfer into the cart, but it is stable and supportive once you’re in. An amazing experience! www.retro-tour.com/en/

Marlena & Bert at the Oman Markets

Touring Paris by motorbike and sidecar

CITY BUS (LONDON)

When travelling I always look for ways to travel like a local. All public buses in London are accessible and a great way to get around. Get an Oyster pass and explore this incredible city. tfl.gov.uk/fares/how-to-pay-and-where-to-buytickets-and-oyster/bus-and-tram-pass

HOT AIR BALLOONING (ALBUQUERQUE USA AND GOLD COAST AUSTRALIA

Olympic Stadium, Beijing

I first did a hot air balloon ride on a Contiki tour in Albuquerque. I loved it! But it was a small balloon and I had to bump my manual chair into the basket and stand up (weight bearing). Here in Australia, as a Gold Coast local, I was thrilled to hear that Go Ballooning now offers a huge 20-passenger balloon, with room and support for wheelies to stay in electric chairs. It’s best if you have a chair with a lift function, but if you don’t, try propping yourself up with a few cushions. Tell Murray I sent you (or, better still, invite me - they can accommodate up to four wheelies at a time). goballooning.com

Forbidden Temple Beijing

Bert & Marlena taking a bike tour Xian, China

Here in Australia, as a Gold Coast local, I was thrilled to hear that Go Ballooning now offers a huge 20-passenger balloon, with room and support for wheelies to stay in electric chairs

Go Ballooning Gold Coast

EURAIL (EUROPE)

Above, clockwise: Terracotta Warrior Statues, China, Marlena at Angor Wat, Cambodia , Accessible New York taxi

HELICOPTER (HAWAII)

This is a fantastic way to get around Europe, and you can do it from the comfort of your wheelchair. There are various passes on offer; I recommend getting a first class ticket, as it’s a minimal extra cost. If you get in touch ahead of time (and persist!), your companion may travel with you for free. eurail.com/en

I have done many tours in helicopters (I’ve even been skydiving out of one!). Choppers are a great way to access amazing views; however, transferring into them can be tough, especially for the assistant. Blue Hawaii Tours have a chair lift to help you into your supportive seat, and they’re affordable. bluehawaiian.com/en/bigisland/tours

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I’ve travelled on Skyrails all around the world - Cairns, Barcelona, New Zealand - and all of them have had a wider berth cart for wheelies. Switzerland offers something special: catch the cart up, and come back down the world’s steepest funicular railway. You’ll never forget these views! myswitzerland.com/en-au/experiences/pilatus

I went to Japan with my school many years ago and they worried the snow would be boring for me. We hired a snowmobile, and it was amazing! The fun I had was well worth the transfer on to it. skihakuba.com/snowmobile.htm

SKYRAIL (SWITZERLAND)

Helicopter skydive on the Gold Coast

The skydiving community is amazing, and there are instructors all over the world who love taking wheelies

BLACK CABS (UK)

Nothing will make you feel like you’re in the UK like a black taxi, all of which are now accessible by law. Headroom is a bit tight, but manageable. In Liverpool, you can do a half-day Beatles tour in a black cab, and see all the Beatles landmarks. fab4taxitours.com/liverpool-tours/classicbeatles-tour

MAID OF THE MIST BOAT (NIAGARA FALLS)

When you see this wonder of the world you must experience her sheer force. What better way to do that but ride at the front of a boat getting right to the base? Make sure you have an extra poncho to cover your electrics though! maidofthemist.com

SKYDIVING (EVERYWHERE!)

When you think about “accessible transport”, skydiving might not come to mind, but if you’re a daredevil and you want to give it a go, it’s definitely an option! The skydiving community is amazing, and there are instructors all over the world who love taking wheelies - Dubai, Switzerland, the USA, and even Egypt (over the Pyramids). skydivedubai.ae

CONTIKI TOURS (WORLDWIDE)

I have joined four Contiki tours and I have made many friends along the way. As a company, Contiki will offer some support (e.g.chair storage, and advice on possible challenges), but if you need muscle and dayto-day assistance it’s best to bring your own. That said, I’m a firm believer in natural support and I have found it on every Contiki tour I’ve done. contiki.com/au/en There are many options available to wheelies with a thick skin and a sense of adventure. Don’t be afraid to get creative and get out of your comfort zone. Travelling the world in a chair can be challenging, but I encourage you to give it a go - the only limit is your imagination! Follow Marlena on Youtube @theaacjournalist

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THE PERFECT

HOLIDAY HAVEN

The name Shoalhaven conjures up gentle breezes and a safe and cosy place to escape the rigors of everyday life - and a haven it has long been – for multi-generational or multi-family vacations, romantic getaways and weekend breaks. The Shoalhaven in NSW promises

Wheelchair Accessibility Shoalhaven Heads

variety, and it delivers generously. The familiar, kid-friendly coastal vibe – complete with white sand ringed bays and secluded bush tracks – blends comfortably with the region’s hipster microbreweries, innovative art galleries and sustainable paddock-to-plate foodie culture.

Only a 2-hour drive from both Sydney and Canberra, Shoalhaven spans 170-kilometres of coast that is home to 49 towns and villages, including Ulladulla, Nowra, Huskisson and Vincentia. Better yet, the region has worked extensively on ensuring their offerings are accessible, partnering with the folks from It’s Heaven.

Sand and salt – the best beach options With this much coastline, it is unsurprising that Shoalhaven is best loved for its beaches. Indeed, Hyams Beach has become a global name thanks to its pristine white sands. Shoalhaven also happens to have an excellent free beach wheelchair program. You’ll find beach wheelchairs available at the surf clubs at Shoalhaven Heads, Culburra Beach, Sussex Inlet Beach and Mollymook Beach, as well as the holiday parks of Holiday Haven Huskisson Beach and Holiday Haven Lake Tabourie. Bringing your own beach wheelchair opens up further possibilities. Greenfield Beach in Jervis Bay National Park has level paths and a small bridge from the car park and picnic area to the beach, which then has soft sand down to the shoreline. Note that there is no unisex, stand-alone accessible bathroom, but rather larger stalls within the toilet block. Another favourite worth exploring is Green Patch in Booderee National Park Want to cool down away from the salt and sun? Shoalhaven Swim Centre venues are dotted throughout the region, providing inclusive access of varying degrees. Nowra Aquatic Park has a pool ramp, aquatic wheelchair and accessible change room with an adult change table suitable for wheelchair or hoist transfers. Ulladulla Leisure Centre also has an aquatic wheelchair and accessible change room, as well as a moveable hoist for pool entry. Bomaderry Aquatic Centre, Shoalhaven Indoor Sports Centre and Bay & Basin Leisure Centre also feature accessible facilities. We recommend calling your chosen location in advance to confirm what is available onsite. 

Greenfield beach

Shoalhaven Heads with life guard

Nowra Aquatic Park

Image: Ben Mack

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Water and whales – boat cruises and seaside fun Jervis Bay Wild offers a dolphin-watching cruise year-round aboard the accessible Port Venture vessel, with a level ramp for embarkation and a typically gentle cruise experience. Spotting bottlenose dolphins from the deck is exhilarating, in summer there is also the option to use the hoist to access the boom net to get you wildly wet. While the Port Venture has an accessible bathroom larger than your average seafaring loo, don’t expect the spaciousness of standard accessible bathrooms on land, which you will find once you disembark at the Jervis Bay Wild ticket office inside Portside Cafe. Call in advance about departures and to request the hoist be brought on board. You might not spot a dolphin, but the wheelchair-friendly Husky Ferry on Currambene Creek is just as delightful an outing. Catch the 10-minute transfer between

Jevis Bay Wild PORT VENTURE

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WHERE TO EAT

Jervis Bay Brewing Co

Greenpatch Beach Accessible

Myola and Huskisson, or book a family fun boat ride, sunset cruise or private charter. The Myola site is currently being upgraded, but the captain can arrange pick-up and drop-off alternatives if you give them a call. Haven’t got your sea legs yet? Travelling with little ones in tow? Livvi’s Playspace on Mollymook Beach is a great inclusive playground complete with ocean views and a play pirate ship. It boasts a wheelchair carousel, Liberty swing, Jenn swing for reclining, tandem swing, step-free slippery dip and raised tables for sand play. Onsite is a unisex accessible toilet and an adult change facility. 

• World Famous Fish & Chips, Huskisson – dine in or takeaway at this renowned eatery selling delicious battered, crumbed or grilled local seafood. • Huskisson Bakery & Cafe – whether it’s a coffee and cake or panini and salad, this venue is something of a Husky institution. You can even order a pre-packaged picnic hamper complete with blanket, utensils and picnic lunch! • Salty Joe’s – from smoothies and brekkie bowls to a burger and beer, tap into the Southern Californian atmosphere of breakfast or lunch at Salty Joe’s in Huskisson. • Tuna Tail – fresh fare meets funky vibes at Tuna Tail in Husky, where you can customise your own poké bowl, including options catering to dietary requirements. • Ponte Bar & Dining – enjoy a lazy lunch or dinner on the bank of the Shoalhaven River in Nowra, with wine and a shared plate among friends. • Jervis Bay Brewing Co, Huskisson – make the most of accessible outdoor seating, great beer, trivia nights and live gigs. • Flamin Galah, Huskisson - is owned by Jervis Bay locals who pride themselves on producing craft beers. The brewery offers live music on Saturdays and Sundays, and is family and pet friendly.

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Bush and birdlife – wheel-friendly walks The Mangrove Boardwalk track stretches roughly 1.4 kilometres between Currambene Creek and the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum which houses accessible toilets. The mangroves are teeming with bird life and crabs, and word on the street is that the track is soon to receive an upgrade. We recommend approaching the picturesque White Sands Walk in sections, as there is the odd step along the way. You may enjoy short stretches launching off from Greenfield Beach, or the opening section from Holden Street boat ramp to Blenheim Beach. Keep an eye out for whales, dolphins or even seals, and listen out for the scrabbling sounds of echidnas in the undergrowth. The fully paved Round the Bay shared path is another accessible option. Tackle it in sections of the track or go for gold and complete the full length which starts at Callala Bay, finishes at Vincentia and includes a ride on the Husky Ferry. Along the way, you’ll pass many a boat ramp, and beautiful carved poles by local Jerrinja elder, Noel Wellington.

Round the Bay Track, leading into White Sands Walk

Mangrove Boardwalk Huskisson

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Where to stay

Back 2 Earth

BONUS TIP To make your stay more comfortable, accessible equipment is available for hire from Nowra Independent Living Supplies. Be sure to book in advance.

Shoalhaven accommodation options vary depending on your accessibility requirements and desired level of luxury. Holiday Haven White Sands is a holiday park located right on the point in Huskisson, with a shared path heading into town where you’ll find a great gourmet pub feed, plenty of cafes and whale and dolphin-watching cruises. Among their accessible cabins, the six-person Beecroft Cabin is the best for wheelchair users with its large car park, ramp to the door, accessible bathroom and deck fitted with outdoor furniture and a barbecue. Located on a 5 acre farm 5 minutes drive from the quaint town of Berry, Back 2 Earth Health Retreat, B&B and farm stay offers guests accessible accommodation, which can sleep seven people. Organic fruit and vegetables, RAW vegan food, a float tank and psychotherapy are just some of the health benefits on offer to guests. The Noah’s ark of farm animals is sure to keep any visiting children entertained.

RAINY DAY ACTIVITIES • HomeCo Vincentia Shopping Centre – enjoy a spot of retail therapy at this venue which hosts a Changing Places facility. • Fleet Air Arm Museum – located at the HMAS Albatross in Nowra, this museum features Navy memorabilia, history and an airfield viewing platform. • Jervis Bay Maritime Museum, Huskisson – view the collection of maritime artefacts, including a wooden Sydney Harbour ferry built in 1911, with flat and short car park access. • Van Rensburg Galleries – situated in Milton, the eclectic mix of contemporary Australian and international art makes for an interesting visit. • Shoalhaven Regional Gallery Nowra – with an oft-rotating exhibition schedule and four gallery spaces, you can see both community-based showings and touring exhibitions such as the Archibald Prize.

Jervis Bay Maritime Museum, Huskisson

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Capital beauty As the city’s architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin envisaged, Canberra is built for the people, incorporating oodles of open space to balance the corridors of power. Whether you love flowers, forests or wide open spaces, like to take it slowly or up the thrill factor, Canberra has you covered.

NATURAL ATTRACTIONS

Colloquially known as the Bush Capital, Canberra is literally surrounded by national parks, nature reserves and specialist gardens. Engage all your senses at the Australian National Botanic Gardens in the foothills of Black Mountain. There are many accessible paths within the 35 hectare garden, home to over 70,000 native plants. Feel the dampness in the rainforest gulley, inhale the fragrance of native flowers, listen to the birdsong, and experience a bird’s eye view from the ramp-accessible paperbark treehouse. Wheelchairs and electric scooters available for loan to visitors, and there is a hearing loop in the Theatrette. The National Arboretum Canberra, covering 250 hectares, is one of the world’s largest living collections of rare, endangered and significant trees, including forests of

Canberra: More than inclusive, more than accessible. Australia’s capital offers myriad attractions whatever your age, ability or needs.

cork oaks and Wollemi pines. It’s home to the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection of miniature trees and landscapes, and the Mununja Butterfly Garden, depicting a dreamtime story of the Ngunnawal people. Mobility scooters are available for loan to visitors. At Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve predatorfree fencing ensures wildlife abounds. Look for platypus and rock wallabies from the wheelchair accessible path through The Sanctuary wetlands and spot koalas and potoroos on the fully accessible Koala Path in the Eucalypt Forest. A TrailRider (all terrain wheelchair requiring Sherpas) is available for booking. Walk with the animals, from alligators to zebras, at The National Zoo and Aquarium. Whether you love monkeys or meerkats, seahorses or sharks, frogs or snakes, you’ll find them here. Mobility scooters and wheelchairs are available for loan to visitors.

GETTING PHYSICAL

Make a bee-line for Boundless Playground on the foreshore of Lake Burley Griffin. Built to celebrate Canberra’s centenary using state-of-the-art design, it’s the city’s first all-abilities playground. With low swings and sensory features including water play, it will

keep kids entertained for hours. Bound through the whimsical woodland that is POD Playground at the National Arboretum. Based on the idea that seeds are the beginning of life in a forest, there are acorn cubbyhouses fashioned out of timber that appear thrown into the air, banksia pod huts and nest swings. Net tunnels and slides connect the cubbies and there are musicmaking instruments. Go on safari in the Adventureland playground at the National Zoo and Aquarium. Explore the large tree house with rock climbing posts and a 3-metre-high slide, net climbers, an inclusive swing, flying foxes, and full size animal structures that gives a zoo visit extra playtime. Lake Burley Griffin, constructed by damming the Molonglo River, may be manmade but it imparts a natural beauty to the city centre. Encircled by a 30 km pathway it’s perfect for a lakeside cycle or stroll. Up the excitement at Vertikal Indoor Snow Sports, where variable incline treadmills of white nylon fibre give you the thrills of skiing or snowboarding without the chills of slushy snow. Vertikal promise ‘if there’s a will to ski, we’ll make it happen’ with staff happy to discuss your needs regarding mobility, vision, hearing or autism. Instructors

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remotely control the pitch and speed of the slope, so you can snowplough down a gentle incline or shred a downhill run. Reward yourself with an après ski beverage and pizza beside the open fire.

DOWN TIME

After an action-packed day it’s good to know there are plenty of accessible accommodation options. QT Canberra is a light, bright, city hotel with a cheeky-chic vibe. Think crisp black and white, cool greys and shimmering sheers accented with pops of citrus in the lobby and guest rooms, while Capitol Bar & Grill channels an industrial mood. The 205-room hotel has two wheelchair accessible rooms. Crowne Plaza Canberra, operated by Intercontinental Hotels Group, offers more traditional décor, with views of neighbouring Glebe Park. The vast atrium floods light into the spacious central public areas, where Redsalt Restaurant serves modern Australian cuisine. The 296-room hotel has several wheelchair accessible rooms, TTY (teletypewriter) and assistive listening devices.

GETTING AROUND

It you’re flying to and from the capital then utilise Canberra Airport’s accessible services, from meeting and greeting to assistance with boarding, disembarking and wheelchairs. Visit their Special Assistance webpage and make arrangements before you fly. City buses and trams, including the Hop-on-Hop-off tourist bus, are wheelchair accessible with visual and auditory stop information. A Wheelchair Accessible Taxi Service (WATS) participates in the Taxi Subsidy Scheme and accepts interstate vouchers.

Images: Mode Imagery

VisitCanberra actively supports inclusive tourism. GetAboutAble is a Canberra-based social enterprise that promotes accessibility and inclusivity in the tourism sector. With financial support from the Australian Capital Territory, GetAboutAble is working with VisitCanberra and Canberra's mainstream tourism sector to better cater to customers with disability. You can see a sneak peek of the new inclusive marketing campaign produced by Threesides Marketing at www.getaboutable.com/canberra-tcmf

AIRLINE ACCESSIBILITY

Up, up and away! There are four airlines that fly domestically in Australia, and on some routes you can take your pick from any one of them. But how do you figure out which one will work best for your needs? Sarah Hinder rounds up the access and inclusion services for Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar and Rex to help you plan your flight.

QANTAS

A high-quality full-service airline, Qantas aims to offer a high level of support for customers with reduced mobility and other specific needs.

BOOKING

Qantas offers to help with booking if you or someone you’re booking for requires specific assistance. If you book online or through a travel agent, the airline recommends calling to arrange the specific type and level of assistance you require. Passengers who require a wheelchair can submit a ‘wheelchair assistance request’ online or over the phone, which specifies if you’re travelling with or without your own mobility aid. Qantas allows two pieces of mobility equipment per person (under 32kg) as checked-in baggage free of charge. Qantas has a specific needs assistance line which can answer any of your queries, and can assist deaf, hearing and speech impaired customers via the

National Relay Service. This contact information can be found on the Qantas website under: Fly > Specific Needs > Contact Us About Specific Needs. If you travel with a Service Dog, Qantas requires that you contact them at the time of booking to provide ID details and make arrangements (Service Dogs must be under 45kg and be less than 86cm in length for travel in all aircraft cabins). There may be additional requirements for travelling with a Service Dog internationally, depending on the country, so it’s best to check the website and/or call Qantas prior to your flight to check when flying internationally. For domestic travel, passengers needing to travel with a carer are eligible for reduced fares for both themselves and their carer (as a current holder of a Carer Concession card, a Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card with blind entitlement, or a travel pass for Person with Vision Impairment).

AT THE AIRPORT

Qantas recommends allowing an additional 30 minutes for passengers requiring mobility assistance before check-in time to allow enough time for transfers and disassembling of mobility aids when required. Qantas can provide kerbside assistance (including wheelchairs) upon arrival at the airport – with the assistance of an accompanied traveller who can come inside to ask staff for kerbside assistance. (Note that staff are unable to assist with transfer to and from vehicles due to health and safety regulations.). Qantas also provides the option to sign up to their ‘meet and assist’ service (when you book), to assist passengers with all specific needs from check-in to the departure gate and then from the arrivals gate to the baggage claim, as well as the option to meet you at the departure and arrival gate to collect and deliver mobility aids. Passengers may check-in medical equipment and two pieces of mobility equipment without additional costs.

BOARDING

Passengers can choose to move from their wheelchair or other mobility aid to an aisle wheelchair either at check-in or at the departure gate with the assistance of airport staff. In airports where aerobridges are unavailable for boarding, Qantas provides high lift vehicles for those who use mobility aids. For domestic travel, Qantas provides a range of approved passenger lifting devices for transfer from aisle wheelchairs to aircraft seats. These include slings, slide boards, jony belts and Eagle Lifters. Please note that the availability of these passenger transfer methods vary by airport, so it’s a good idea to call beforehand to ensure that the lifting device you require is available where you are flying in and out from. Passengers with all specific needs will generally board before other passengers and disembark last, as well as be provided with an individual safety briefing. Safety cards in Braille are available on most Qantas flights.

INFLIGHT

Qantas makes its best effort to seat passengers with specific needs close to accessible toilets (on planes that have them), in aisle seats with movable armrests, and next to an accompanying passenger or carer. For international flights (on Airbus 380 and Boeing 787 aircraft), a manual collapsible wheelchair (one per flight and under 30kg) can be stowed in the stowage position of the aircraft cabin (by request at check-in). All other mobility aids can be stowed in the check-in baggage compartment. All Qantas’ international and domestic aircraft are equipped with torso harness restraints to assist passengers to sit upright. The availability of torso harnesses varies across classes, so passengers should call Qantas 48 hours before travel to confirm availability. Qantas’ wide-bodied aircraft (A380 and A330) all have at least one wheelchair accessible toilet on-board. Their narrow-bodied aircraft (B737, B717, F100 and Dash 8) don’t have accessible toilets. Aisle wheelchairs are available on-board all Qantas aircraft, except the 717, Fokker 100 and Dash 8, which allow passengers to be escorted to and from toilets. Medical equipment and medications

may be brought on-board after obtaining a medical clearance form. Certain medications may require a medical certificate (stating that the medication is for personal use only) to be brought on-board, particularly when travelling internationally. When travelling overseas, be sure to consult the website of the country you are visiting before travelling with medications onboard. A cabin crew member can read the inflight menu to vision impaired passengers and explain where all food is placed on your tray, at your request. When in-flight announcements are made, cabin crew will provide relevant individual updates to hearing impaired passengers using your preferred method of communication (e.g. lip reading or written notes), whenever possible.

ONA R IVA L

Qantas provides the choice to have your mobility aid delivered to you at the gate lounge upon arrival or to collect it yourself from the baggage claim area. Qantas staff can assist all passengers with specific needs with their flight connections and baggage transfer. All information on flying with Qantas with specific mobility, access and medical needs can be found on the Qantas website under: Fly > Specific Needs. 

VIRGIN AUSTRALIA As a full-service airline, Virgin Australia provides a high level of assistance for people with specific mobility, access and medical needs.

BOOKING

When booking with Virgin Australia, passengers can complete the Specific Assistance form on the booking page to request assistance with mobility needs or vision or hearing impairments, to let the airline know if you are travelling with a Service Dog, and whether you will be travelling alone or with a carer. When booking, it’s best to provide the airline with as much information as possible to ensure its staff can best assist you to provide the mobility, access or medical assistance you require. Virgin Australia has restrictions on the number of guests with mobility needs that they can accommodate on each flight (dependent on specific aircrafts and airports), so it’s best to call the airline when booking to request all levels of specific assistance you may need. Vision or hearing impaired passengers can make bookings online, over the phone or via the National Relay Service. Hearing impaired passengers can request at booking or check-in to indicate if you can lip read, or if you would like staff to use a pen and paper or to speak louder. Passengers travelling with a Service Dog can make bookings online or over the phone, and will need to provide accreditation ID documents to fly.

AT THE AIRPORT

Virgin Australia staff can provide mobility assistance from the kerbside – but note that passengers need to be accompanied by a companion or carer who can notify staff inside that a wheelchair is required at kerbside. At check-in you can choose to check-in your manual or battery-operated wheelchair and staff will provide you with an aisle wheelchair, or you can choose to take your own wheelchair to the boarding gate to be stowed in the airport hold, and

transfer to an aisle wheelchair just before boarding. Note that the batteries in batterypowered mobility aids are considered dangerous goods, so there are strict restrictions on which type of batteries can be taken on flights. Information regarding what type of batteries are safe to fly can be found on Virgin Australia’s website under: Planning > Specific Needs and Assistance > Mobility Assistance. Virgin Australia staff can assist with check-in and boarding for vision and hearing impaired passengers by assisting you to the gate and letting you know when pre-boarding commences.

BOARDING

Virgin Australia staff will ensure that passengers are transferred into an aisle wheelchair to board aircraft as close to the aircraft door as possible, if this is what you prefer, and that you board before all other passengers. At airports without an aerobridge, passengers can transfer to an aisle wheelchair at check-in or on the tarmac to board aircraft via the Disabled Person Lifter (DPL). Virgin Australia provides a range of mobility assistance and equipment for boarding, including manual

aisle wheelchairs and the choice of slide boards, slide sheets, manual transfer slings and Eagle Lifts for passenger transfer between wheelchairs and your aircraft seat. Passengers with specific medical needs, such as the use of an oxygen tank, other medical equipment or medications onboard, will need to complete a Medical Clearance Form pre-flight. Virgin Australia’s Medical Clearance Form allows exemptions to be made for passengers who require to

carry sharps (such as a syringe for diabetes) or medications on-board, by stating that these are for personal use only. Vision and hearing impaired passengers also board first and will be provided with an individual safety briefing to suit your specific needs. Braille and large print safety instruction manuals are on-board all aircraft for blind and vision impaired passengers.

INFLIGHT

All Virgin Australia flights are equipped with an on-board wheelchair. During flight, cabin crew can assist to transfer passengers to the on-board toilet door, though Virgin Australia aircraft are not equipped with wheelchair accessible toilets. All Virgin Australia aircraft are equipped with torso harnesses (two per aircraft) to allow passengers who require postural support to sit upright. You will need to contact the airline beforehand to pre-reserve a torso harness. Virgin Australia also allows guests to bring aboard their own pre-approved postural support devices.

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Upon arrival passengers with mobility needs can either be transferred to an airport wheelchair or to your own manual wheelchair, upon request. Virgin Australia staff can also provide assistance to the baggage claim, to connecting flights, between terminals and to the closest drop off point, where required, for both passengers with mobility needs and for vision or hearing impaired passengers. At domestic airports (only), wheelchairs and mobility aids that were checked as baggage can be returned to passengers at the arrivals gate, rather than at baggage claim, upon request. All information on flying with Virgin Australia with specific mobility, access and medical needs can be found on the Virgin Australia website under: Planning > Specific Needs and Assistance. 

ETS J TAR

As a smaller budget airline, Jetstar doesn’t have the systems, staff and supporting facilities to provide quite the same level of assistance as full-service airlines. However, there are many features of Jetstar’s service that provide help to passengers of all abilities.

BOOKING

When you book – whether online, over the phone or through a travel agent – Jetstar asks that you always let them know at the time of booking if you have any specific medical, access or mobility assistance requirements to ensure that the airline can best assist you in every way, and will have the assistance you need ready at the airport, on-board and on arrival at your destination. When making a booking for someone with a wheelchair, mobility aid or reduced mobility, Jetstar asks that you specify what level of assistance you will require

at the time of booking. Most Jetstar domestic flights can take a maximum of two customers requiring wheelchair assistance per flight, so booking ahead when flying Jetstar is important. Mobility aids (up to 32kg) can be checked in as checked baggage but cannot be taken on board as a carry-on item. Hearing impaired passengers have the option to book via the National Relay Service. Passengers travelling with a Service Dog need to inform Jetstar at time of booking and provide accreditation and ID documents. Jetstar provides handy pre-flight checklists on its websites for customers travelling with a wheelchair, mobility aid or reduced mobility, and for customers who are deaf, blind, having a hearing or vision impairment or who are travelling with a Service Dog. These can be found on their website at Menu > Plan > Specific Assistance.

AT THE AIRPORT

Because Jetstar is a smaller, more budgetfriendly airline, it’s recommended that you arrive early with plenty of time to spare before your departure. The final hour before a flight is always the busiest so there may be a longer wait time before assistance can be provided closer to the departure time. Jetstar requires that you request in advance (at the time of booking) if you require assistance getting from check-in to the departure gate and on board. As a smaller airline, Jetstar has a limit in the number of people they can provide wheelchair assistance to for each flight. Airline staff are able to assist with all levels of wheelchair assistance to and from the aircraft and baggage claim, though not beyond baggage claim or with connecting flights. So, if you are travelling alone and/or need assistance beyond this point, you will need to arrange to meet

someone at the baggage claim. Vision or hearing impaired passengers can let staff know at check-in if they would like assistance from the check-in and their boarding gate or aircraft seat.

BOARDING

When flying Jetstar, you can use your manual wheelchair up to the boarding gate in most instances (for some flights, operational reasons may not allow this). In most cases, Jetstar offers the choice of being transferred to an airport wheelchair at either check-in or at the boarding gate. When boarding, Jetstar staff can provide a slide board for transfer between wheelchairs into the aircraft seat. Jetstar don’t use slings, hoists, Eagle Lifts or provide manual lifting for passenger transfers, but you are welcome to bring your own sling. Battery-powered wheelchairs (including manual wheelchairs that have a detachable battery or smart drive) require a Qantas dangerous goods approval before travel – to request to travel with a battery-powered wheelchair, email dg@qantas.com.au with all details at least five days before your flight. Passengers with mobility needs or with a vision or hearing impairment will generally be invited to board first, and will receive an individual safety briefing on board.

INFLIGHT

Jetstar provides torso restraints to allow passengers who cannot sit upright unaided to sit upright and secure during flight. (Be sure to let the airline know 48 hours in advance if you require a torso restraint.) Aisle wheelchairs and wheelchair-accessible toilets fitted with handrails are available on-board all Jetstar Boeing 787 aircraft – generally used for long-haul international flights. Aisle wheelchairs can be accessed on these flights by passengers who are able to transfer themselves to it without a slide board. However, there are no aisle wheelchairs or wheelchair accessible toilets available on-board Jetstar’s Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, which are used for most domestic flights.

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Jetstar will provide a wheelchair for use from the aircraft to the baggage claim area (where

you will be able to collect and use your own mobility aid). Please note that Jetstar is not able to assist with wheelchair and mobility aid beyond baggage claim, for connecting flights or with mobility aid re-assembly if this is required, so passengers unable to do this on their own will need to travel with a carer. Staff can assist passengers with a vision or hearing impairment to the baggage claim area, but not for connecting flights or further travel beyond the baggage claim. All information on flying with Jetstar with specific mobility, access and medical needs can be found on the Jetstar website under: Menu > Plan > Specific Assistance. 

REX

Rex is a domestic airline that connects Australia’s major cities with regional and remote destinations. As a smaller airline that flies to remote areas, Rex is able to provide some assistance to people requiring specific needs and assistance, they also require extra safety precautions and have limitations on their regional flights and at their regional airports in particular.

BOOKING

All specific needs and assistance requirements for Rex flights can be made at the time of booking. As it is a small airline, Rex requires at least 48 hours’ notice of any mobility assistance requirements in order to provide staff and the mobility aid equipment required. If you are required to travel with an oxygen tank or other breathing device on-board, Rex requires notice at time of booking. Passengers travelling with a Service Dog are required to book over the phone to notify Rex. It’s important to note that Rex staff at regional airports may not commence work until 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure – so if you will require extra time for boarding assistance when travelling in a regional location, be sure to contact Rex at least 48 hours before your flight to ensure they can provide the staff assistance required. Carers required to travel with a passenger with specific needs are guaranteed Rex’s lowest advertised fare. Please note, for Rex regional flights only: passengers who require assistance to transfer between their wheelchair, Rex’s aisle wheelchair and aircraft seat must have a carer travelling with them to assist. Carers who are travelling with a passenger and assisting with these passenger transfers may travel at the lowest advertised fare (by submitting a Rex Disability Assistance Form at check-in).

AT THE AIRPORT

Rex asks that passengers with a wheelchair or other mobility device check-in with plenty of time before departure to ensure enough time for assisted boarding: 90 minutes prior to departure from major cities (and Burketown regional airport in

Queensland), 60 minutes prior to departure from all Queensland regional airports, and 45 minutes prior to departure from all NSW, SA, Tas, Vic & WA regional airports. At Rex airports, an aisle wheelchair will be provided for passengers with mobility needs to embark and disembark aircraft, either at the gate lounge or at the aircraft door. For safety reasons, passengers in battery-operated wheelchairs will need to transfer to an aisle wheelchair at the gate lounge. All battery-operated mobility devices need to be prepared according to Dangerous Goods Regulations (visit the Rex website for more information). All wheelchairs and mobility aids need to be stowed as checked baggage on Rex flights. Passengers who have an unstable medical condition, or who have an intellectual disability that disallows them

to fully understand safety briefings and respond to safety announcements, or who are required to travel with a carer, will need to complete a Rex Medical Certificate of Fitness to Fly form. Rex welcomes group travel for disabled passengers and allows either one carer for every three disabled passengers or one carer for every five disabled passengers, depending on the passengers’ needs and capabilities.

BOARDING

Passengers will need to transfer to Rex’s aisle wheelchairs to embark and disembark, and all wheelchairs and mobility aids will be stowed in the baggage area. In airports without an aerobridge, passengers who cannot ascend/descend stairs can embark/ disembark with the use of the Disabled Passenger Lifter (DPL). DPLs are available at Rex airports, except for Bedourie, Boulia,

Burketown and Karumba. Rex’s lift chairs help to assist passengers with transfer from aisle wheelchairs into their aircraft seat on all Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Rex Saab 340 aircraft are not equipped with equipment to help with transfer from aisle wheelchairs to aircraft seats. Rex flights do not supply slide boards, slings or Eagle Lifts to assist with passenger transfer. In Rex’s regional airports, carers will be required to assist passengers in transferring passengers from their wheelchair to their aircraft seat. Alternatively, a Passenger Facilitator (a friend/relative/carer who is not travelling with the passenger) are able to assist a passenger with mobility needs with boarding and disembarking, and does not require a boarding pass to do so.

INFLIGHT

Passengers with specific requirements will embark before other passengers, and disembark after other passengers, as well and will receive individual safety

briefings, available in verbal, written and pictorial format. Cabin crew will bring individual cabin announcements to hearing impaired passengers, by lip reading where passengers have the capacity to do so, or by the passenger’s preferred method of communication. Rex aircraft are equipped with torso restraint harnesses for passengers who need assistance to sit upright. Rex requires a carer to accompany passengers who require an in-flight torso harness. Rex aircraft do not have wheelchair accessible bathrooms on-board.

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Rex staff can provide assistance to passengers with mobility needs for transfer to baggage claim, connecting flights, or to the nearest taxi stand or airport pick up point. Mobility devices which have been stored in the baggage hold will be returned to passengers by Rex staff as soon as possible. All information on flying with Rex with sp ecific mobility, access and medical needs can be found on the Rex website under: Plan & Fly > Practical Info > Special Requirements.

OUR TOP TIPS FOR SMOOTH FLYING • When booking, this is the best time to inform airline staff of any and all kinds of specific mobility and access needs you may require. This will allow the airline to organise the required equipment and staff to be ready to assist in all areas of your journey. • Certain airlines (and specific aircraft) are equipped with a limited number of stowage spaces for wheelchairs and equipment such as torso restraints, lifting devices and aisle wheelchairs. Be sure to inform your airline at the time of booking of what mobility assisting equipment you require to reserve these ahead of time. • Most airlines require that passengers with specific mobility and medical needs arrive early in order to allow enough time for staff to assist with check-in and boarding. So, it’s a good idea to check your specific airline’s website for how long prior to departure you may need to arrive depending on whether

you are flying domestic, regionally or internationally. • A Medical Clearance may be required for medical equipment and medications that need to be taken and/or used on-board, including oxygen tanks, CPAP, medical syringes, personal medications and other forms of medical equipment. • A Dangerous Goods Declaration may be required for battery-operated mobility aids, depending on the kind of battery that they use. If you plan to travel with a batteryoperated mobility aid, contact your airline for more information about what pre-flight safety declaration forms may be required. • All airlines require passengers to adhere to Independent Travel Criteria to be able to travel alone. Passengers that don't meet all criteria are required to travel with an accompanying passenger or carer.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Immerse your Senses in North Queensland!

Blind runner Charlie McConnell is very active and traditionally holidays with friends, however a tour company that focuses on adventures for blind and low vision travellers recently got his attention and Charlie thought he would give it a go! Charlie chose to combine three short trips in North Queensland to create a 12-day escape from the Southern Winter. Charlie explains, “As a blind traveller there are barriers and additional cost to organising a holiday like finding someone that will assist me and have similar interests. Not to mention wanting to go to the same place at the same time!” Cocky Guides spend a lot of time developing experiences that take advantage of a traveller’s senses beyond sight. We asked Charlie to tell us about his experience with Cocky Guides at the two major iconic World Heritage sites of North Queensland – the Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef.

Indigenous Guide Ben & Charlie at Mossman Gorge

DAINTREE RAINFOREST

There is no better way to get to an understanding of a new place then hearing stories from the Indigenous people and their connection to the world’s oldest rainforest. “Cocky Guides organised a traditional smoking ceremony with Tom, a ranger at Mossman Gorge and a Kuku Yalanji man. It was great to be part of a welcome to country, have language interpreted, be cleansed by the smoke and introduced to the tools available to survive in the rainforest, then forage and taste bush tucker.”

GREAT BARRIER REEF

“Although I’m an active swimmer I would not head out to the Great Barrier Reef where I’m trapped on a boat or a pontoon for the day. I was really surprised to experience this natural wonder on Frankland Island, where Master Reef Guide Michelle led us on a private tour of the rock pools to discover all the living activity taking place, before leading us on our own snorkel adventure from the beach. It was really hands on and I can really see how Cocky Guides adapt and tailor our experiences to keep me totally immersed in the destination.”

KNOW A BLIND OR LOW VISION TRAVELLER?

Charlie & Master Reef Guide Michelle at Frankland Islands

Charlie reckons, “Cocky Guides is like travelling with friends but knowing support is close by. Give it a go!” Blind and low vision travellers can subscribe to a newsletter and search upcoming tours at cockyguides.com.au. Alternatively, call 1300 657 640

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Gold Coast trip a ‘proper holiday’ for Adena’s family Going on holidays can often be fraught with challenges like packing, booking travel and accommodation, finding a hotel that suits everyone, and deciding on activities to do. For someone who lives with a disability, it can be even trickier. When Adena and her family decided to take a holiday to the Gold Coast, Adena found she could make the whole process a bit more seamless by connecting with a couple of independent support workers at her destination. The result was that her family “got to have a ‘proper holiday” which Adena says was of enormous importance to her. Living with Motor Neurone Disease means that 36-year-old Victorian mum of two Adena, uses a wheelchair, requires support with mobility, showering and bed transfers, among other things. At home, she accesses support through Mable, a website that enables people with disability to choose support workers of their own choice. “With the help of my eye gaze computer and my trusty support team at home, planning our family holiday was an enjoyable experience,” she says. “I always research venues and attractions before booking to make sure they’re wheelchair friendly and book ahead for the airline’s aisle-friendly wheelchair and some assistance to get on the plane. Travelling by air, I also have to reduce our bulky items so I hire equipment like shower chairs, hoists and over-toilet frames. For this trip, I was able to rent a lift chair through MND Queensland which meant I didn’t have to stay in my wheelchair whenever we were just chilling at the apartment.” Knowing she would need support at the Gold Coast, Adena searched the profiles of independent support workers on mable.com.au and ultimately found two people she matched with who she says made a world of difference to the holiday. “They fed me, got me dressed and ready each day and helped me when we were out and about,” Adena explains. “Back at our accommodation, they also helped keep the apartment tidy. They were an integral part

of ensuring we had a relaxing holiday. My hubby was able to have good fun with the kids without having to worry about me, which meant so much.” When selecting her support team on the Gold Coast, Adena says she was also keen to find people who were up for an adventure. “The most important question I asked during each interview was, ‘What are your thoughts on roller coasters?’ I also asked what they like to do in their spare time because it’s good to share some common interests. This was really easy to do via Mable’s job post and messaging functionality.” Being fun, easy-going and great with kids were other important criteria. “And I also ask what led them to become a support worker. I want someone who cares and isn’t just doing it for a job.” The family had a wonderful time visiting three big Gold Coast theme parks: Movie World, Sea World and Wet ‘n’ Wild. “Going on the Superman ride at Movie World was a big highlight for me,” Adena smiles. “I’d been on it before I became unwell and while it was terrifying not knowing how my body would react, the adrenalin rush was worth it!” Fun days on the beach and a day of exploring the coastline around Moreton Bay gave the family a quintessential Queensland experience. One of Adena’s favourite outings was to Miami Marketta night market where live music, cocktails and a selection of food trucks were on offer after dusk. “For my five-year-old, Sushi Train was a highlight of another night.” Adena says it’s important to look for solutions, rather than missing out on things you want to do. “If you love the beach but are confined to a wheelchair,” she advises, “don’t let that stop you. Contact the local Surf Lifesaving Clubs. They generally have chairs you can hire. I love the Hippocampe because it’s low to the ground, so you feel like you’re sitting on the beach.” When asked what she would recommend as the ideal way to spend just 24 hours at

the Gold Coast, Adena was ready with an answer. “Wake up and go down to the beach to watch the sunrise. Go down to Surfers and have a yummy breakfast then hop on a boat and have a cruise around the waterways, stopping for lunch at George’s in Sanctuary Cove. Then, pop over to Sea World to swim with the dolphins. Jump in a helicopter and experience the Gold Coast by air. Go back to the beach, have a little snooze then have dinner at Rick Shores in Burleigh Heads.” Clearly, Adena is a seasoned traveller with plenty of energy and is certainly not one to let her family’s travels be limited! Adena is proud to share her journey on social media. Her TikTok and Instagram name is @adenarochelle. Find an independent support worker to travel with; sign up for free at mable.com.au.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Run For Your Life! For Annika, a Frame Runner has opened up a world of opportunity.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Annika is 19 years old. She lives with cerebral palsy and she uses a power wheelchair to get around. She cannot walk, but with a Frame Runner, she can definitely run! Annika’s physiotherapist introduced her to frame running two years ago. A Frame Runner is a custom-built tricycle without pedals that allows people with balance and mobility needs to run independently. The runner is fully supported in the chest and saddle, and allows users to propel themselves forward with their feet while using their upper limbs to steer. It’s a fullbody workout, and as with any exercise, it takes a while to build up strength and stamina. “At first, she was puffed!” Annika’s Mum says, but after two years of weekly training with her exercise physiologist, her stamina has increased. “She’s really fit now!” While Annika found it tough at first, she kept at it, and she found the benefits went beyond what she could do on the running track. “Annika paints, in a sit-to-stand wheelchair,” her Mum says. “Frame running has made that easier for her. Even her breathing and speech has improved, with the fitness she’s built up from running. It’s made a huge difference.”

Annika started out competing in short races with her Frame Runner, but she’s discovered her true love is long-distance running. She even participated in the online Gold Coast Marathon event last year. She plans to keep competing--maybe even at the Paralympics in Paris 2024, where frame running is expected to be introduced as an official event. “For someone who couldn’t walk, it’s amazing to see Annika running,” her Mum says. But it’s not just about the gold and glory: training with a Frame Runner has improved Annika’s mental health, too. Running helps her feel that she fits in with her peers, and makes her feel more confident in all areas of her life. Annika and her Mum also love the community connection that the frame runner invites. Seeing Annika out and about with it encourages others to stop and chat, interactions that help Annika grow her confidence and social skills. Steve Andrew is the spokesperson for Dejay, an Australian-owned family business and the only stockist of Frame Runners in Australia. Steve is proud to be involved with a sport that combines fun and freedom, and improves every participant’s overall health and wellbeing.

“We are working together to grow the sport in Australia, and we are also working with partners in New Zealand to kick off the sport there,” Steve says. “We want to help people improve their lives through building strength and fitness.” The Dejay team offer “come and try” days, or home-visits with your regular therapist, to show you what a Frame Runner can do and ensure you get the most out of your bike. There are a range of sizes and support types available, so everyone who wants to give it a go can find a Frame Runner that suits their needs. Once you’ve found the right Frame Runner, all you need is persistence and patience. You might be surprised at what a difference it can make. What started as a suggestion by Annika’s physiotherapist as a “fun thing to try” has become a big part of Annika’s life, one that she loves and gives her a sense of independence and the satisfaction that comes with that. “Annika loves to run on public tracks, she’s proud to show others what she can do,” her Mum says. “Frame running is ‘her thing’, now. She relies on others for a lot, but this is something Annika does for herself.” therapy@dejay.com.au dejay.com.au

LONGING FOR LUXURY?

WORDS : SOPHIE CULLEN

As Coco Chanel said: “Luxury must be comfortable otherwise it is not luxury.” And who are we to disagree? Following, discover a selection of luxe places that have all the up-to-date, appropriate bells and whistles of accessibility to cater to all your luxe-longing dreams. Trust Coco!

Perhaps you’re spoiling yourself with a once-off delight for a special occasion. Maybe you’re simply a champagne-on-arrival, lagoon lounge kind of traveller, fond of the finer things in life. All you lovers of the luxe, listen up! We’ve unveiled this tantalising list of multi-star accommodation where indulgence meets inclusivity. Each of these luxury properties have taken care to offer accessibility without compromising on glamour. So take your pick, pack your bags and pop the bubbly… you’re in for a treat!

Y. EMPIRE APARTMENT HOTEL, ROCKHAMPTON, QLD

Why settle for the royal treatment when you can have an experience worthy of an emperor? Empire Apartments have five purpose-built accessible apartments, all self-contained. The rooms include a king bed or twins, with the option to supply an electric bed and other mobility equipment as required. Open plan bathrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, in-room laundry, lounge room and a balcony complete the picture. There are also accessible car parks directly adjacent to lifts. The landscaped rooftop pool (including mechanical lift swing on request), all three onsite restaurants and the gym are wheelchair accessible.

GAS LTBYEPOONB P LD Q

A nearby alternative is a 4.5 star apartment at Salt, set on Yeppoon’s Main Beach. Every apartment boasts ocean views, with the chance to look out across to Rosslyn Bay or Great Keppel Island. The complex houses 50 spacious rooms of varying sizes, with a wheelchair-accessible configuration available in the Two Bedroom Beachfront variety. The apartment, with lift access, features an open plan design, balcony, laundry, fully-equipped kitchen, bathrooms and more, and can accommodate a maximum of five people. Salt sits across the road from the resort-style Yeppoon Lagoon which has an aquatic wheelchair available.

˚GHYA£REGENCYB SYDNEY, NSW

Nothing spells luxury like harbour views. Set in the dining and entertainment precinct of Darling Harbour, the Hyatt Regency offers two accessible room options. Both have bathrooms with circulation room, flipdown shower bench, adjustable shower head, lever taps, toilet backrest and grab rails throughout. The accessible Regency Club City View room has plenty of bedside transfer space. The Standard City Side accessible room is larger and has a separate lounge room. Dine in style at Sailmakers restaurant, grab a coffee or a cocktail at the Lobby Lounge, and soak up the city skyline views on the open rooftop of the Zephyr Bar. Nearby to the hotel is lift access down to Darling Harbour, with its aquarium, Madame Tussauds and wildlife park. 

¸ . FREYCINET LODGE, TASMANIA

With the picturesque Great Oyster Bay in one direction and the Hazard mountains in another, this luxury lodge nestled in Tasmania’s most famous east coast national park, sure is easy on the eyes. The dedicated accessible room, aptly named The Lodge King, is specially oriented to soak up the sunsets. You can also toss in one of the lodge’s special packages, such as a romantic dinner or a scenic flight. The natural delights of Wineglass Bay, Coles Bay and the Friendly Beaches are a short drive away depending on your inclinations.

. WESTIN BRISBANE, QLD

Situated beside the Queen Street Mall and Brisbane’s South Bank, the 5-star Westin makes for a great city staycation. The vibe is relaxed and funky, complete with an aviation-inspired casual dining area, the Charles, that transforms into a jazz bar at night. The accessible room comes with the option for an interconnecting room and has a large, open plan bathroom. At least one bedside has transfer clearance, and there are lowered amenities throughout the room including aircon controls and a pull-down arm for the wardrobe hanging rail. The hotel’s trump card, however, has got to be the Nautilus swim-up pool bar with custom cocktails and an all-day menu, accessible using a pool chair hoist.

˝ . HOTEL BROOKLYN, MANCHESTER, UK

At the top of our list when overseas travel resumes is the New York hipster-inspired Hotel Brooklyn, which has been getting plenty of international buzz for its marketleading accessibility. It has eighteen ‘Liberty suites’ crafted by Motionspot, an awardwinning specialist in accessible design, with nine that are wheelchair-accessible and the other nine ambulant-accessible. Two of the accessible rooms also feature concealed ceiling tracks (the first of their kind in Manchester), and all are designed to be adapted by staff prior to your arrival depending on your specific requirements. 

˛. BANNISTERS PAVILION, MOLLYMOOK, NSW

The Bannisters offerings in Mollymook and Port Stephens work closely with none other than Rick Stein. Bannisters Pavilion in Mollymook (not to be confused with Bannisters by the Sea) is the only venue with accessible rooms, which are kitted out in Instagramready beach-chic décor and an abundance of natural light. Unfortunately, Rick Stein at Bannisters restaurant is located at the Bannisters by the Sea site, but a courtesy bus is available to transfer you to its fine-dining, seafood-celebrating experience. Alternatively, stay in at the Pavilion for the Mediterraneanmeets-modern Aussie fare at the Rooftop Bar and Grill.

ˇGBIG¸AS NDSTONE POINT HOLIDAY RESORT, QLD

Who says luxury can’t also be family-friendly? One of BIG4’s Premier (luxury) Parks, Sandstone Point serves up plenty of south-east Queensland charm. All amenities throughout the park are wheelchair-friendly. The designated accessible villas have level access, large doorways, open-plan bathrooms with railings and heat-restricted showers, and high-profile bed frames, suitable for lifters. You can choose your villa location to suit your priorities, whether close to the gate and reception, near the pool area or beside powered sites if you’re travelling with campers. The pool’s S.R. Smith Pool Lifter can be booked for free within operating hours.

— . INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL SAN FRANCISCO, USA

In San Fran’s SoMa neighbourhood and its shopping and entertainment districts sits this 4.5 star treasure. The spacious accessible rooms have two Queens, lots of circulation space and enough luggage storage to keep bags out of the way. There is a sliding door to the bathroom with all the trimmings including grab rails, lever taps, wheelchairaccessible basin, height-adjustable shower and a shower seat. Enjoy a relaxing dip in the indoor pool and spa, both with a pool seat, or instead relax over a lovely dinner at Luce or drink at Bar 888.

Y˙ GQUA LIA BHA MILTONISLA NDBLD Q

When it comes to luxury, this adults-only, six-star Whitsundays retreat does not hold back. There are two pavilion styles of accommodation to choose from, with accessible options in either. The accessible pavilions have loads of circulation space, plenty of bedside transfer rooms and a bathroom with bathtub, roll-in shower, flip-down shower bench, grab rails, double sinks and lowered amenities. The Windward Pavilions are the larger of the two, with a private plunge pool and floor-to-ceiling views of the Coral Sea. That said, with its sliding doors out to a garden deck, the Leeward is just as lovely. Make the most of the Pebble Beach recreation area with climate-controlled infinity pool, sun lounges, catamarans, kayaks and sailing trips. Toss up between Long Pavilion or Pebble Beach Dining for delicious meals. An electric golf buggy is included in your stay to make transfers even easier.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Go for comfort. Go for flexibility. Go you.

What better way to test out the new Zygo back support than by getting three active wheelchair users to try it out? Spex, the makers of Zygo did just that – and found that all three were impressed with its advanced flexibility, comfort and customisation.

JADEN: GOING FOR GOLD.

Future Paralympian, Jaden trains for several hours a day - so for him, comfort and flexibility are everything. After trying the Zygo back support in his active lifestyle, Jaden was sold. He especially likes the freedom of unrestricted arm movement and the customised fit, tailored to suit his back shaping. “It’s light, it’s easy to take on and off, and it fits me around the torso, so it gives me that stability I need,” he reports. “With other backrests, I would sometimes tip backwards or side to side, so I like that it holds me securely. The Zygo allows you to be active, yet it’s comfortable.”

CHELSEA: “I DON’T WANT LIMITS”

With three different styles to choose from, Zygo’s invertible shell design is breathable, flexible and fully configurable to each user. It’s also easy to adjust, lock and remove –

something that Chelsea, an ambassador for inclusive modelling, finds really useful. “Choosing the right accessories is important for me, because I already have limitations – so I don’t want to be limited getting from point A to point B,” she says. “The Zygo is comfortable, easy to use and really supportive – I know that’s something a lot of active wheelchair users look for in a back rest. I would definitely recommend it.”

PIETA: “I FEEL SUPER SUPPORTED AND COMFORTABLE”

The Zygo also ticks all the right boxes for Pieta, a writer and student who loves going out and about. “I absolutely need a lightweight, comfortable backrest to keep me going throughout the day without getting sore or tired.” “The Zygo has been great in that I feel super-supported and comfortable, both when I’m sitting still and when I’m moving. Whether I’m propelling up stairs or popping wheelies: it works in all situations. And it’s not so high that I feel restricted, so I can go anywhere, easily.” To see new Zygo back supports in action, scan the QR code or visit spexseating.com/Zygo

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loop+ Clare Conroy is a passionate designer, entrepreneur and mother of three. We chat with Clare about how she came to develop a smart diagnostic device to support her son’s mobility and encourage healthy habits. How did you come to be involved in the creation of a wearable for wheelchair users? Evander has had a spinal cord injury since birth and we have been managing his daily health concerns. We were looking for a wheelchair friendly sensor-based health tracker but couldn't find one to meet our specific needs… so my sister and I decided to build one. What kind of data does the Loop+ sensor pad give access to? Evander’s loop+ sensor pad is continuously collecting information on his activity, posture, pressure and positioning throughout the day. I am able to see this in the app in real-time and in his daily summary. I can also request a report of this information that can be used as supporting evidence for his NDIS plan. I have used a loop+ report to support a request for short term accommodation funds and also to help in discussions with Evander’s occupational therapist for seating adjustments. Where have you travelled with your son? As a family we have travelled within Australia and overseas for holidays. The kids love swimming, so we often look for locations which have access to the beach or a pool. When Evander was younger we also travelled regularly to the USA for therapy. Where would you like to travel as a family next? We have booked a holiday to Perth just after Christmas, where we will be staying at accommodation offered by Spinal Cord Injuries Australia. It is a beautiful house providing accessible modifications, pool and a gym.

Are there any issues accessing loop+ metrics while away? loop+ connects to wifi so it can upload Evander’s data. When we are travelling we simply connect the app to hotel wifi and can continue to track Evander’s progress. It is a great way to compare how his days vary whilst on holidays to his regular days at home and school. What are your top five bucket list destinations for your family? There are so many! Here are a few... 1. Uluru: I have always wanted to go there myself and I think the kids would love it. 2. Falls Creek: I believe they have a fantastic adaptive skier program. 3. Peru: Evander’s Grandma is from Peru and we would like to take the kids to Machu Picchu one day. I have seen

blogs of wheelchair users who have visited there so this would be an epic adventure! Fiji: I am sure that there are some great accessible resorts that we could find that cater to all our needs. NZ: We are an active family so we would love to go and explore NZ.

How is the loop+ pad easy to travel with? We have travelled with the loop+ sensor pad with it remaining attached to Evander’s wheelchair during the flight. Alternatively, we can take the pad off and ensure it is kept flat in our hand luggage or stowed away in our baggage. I have travelled with a loop+ to demo at various expos interstate and have had no trouble flying with it. loopplus.com.au info@loopplus.com.au

OSTA ICA

HIGH AND LOW SENSORY SENSATIONS

Nicole & Emerson zip lining at Sky Adventures

WORDS & IMAGES : NICOLE THIBAULT



OUR MISSION WAS SIMPLE: EXPERIENCE AS MUCH OF COSTA RICA AS WE COULD IN 12 DAYS, SEACHING R FORTHEBESTUTIS A MFRIENDLY DESTINATIONSAND£RA CTIONS A G My name is Nicole Thibault. I’m a Mom of three boys, one with autism and one with sensory processing disorder. I’m also a Certified Autism Travel Agent, and I’ve assisted countless families with their travel plans, creating sensory-friendly trips for loved ones on the autism spectrum. I met Stephanie Sheehy of Il Viaggio Travel several years ago at a Family Travel conference and we became fast friends. It was clear we had much in common, as well as a similar passion for helping families travel. Stephanie lives and works in Costa Rica with her husband, Emilio, and two young kids. In addition to creating amazing Costa Rican vacations for families through her Tour Operator business, the work that Stephanie feels so passionate about is accessible travel. She works tirelessly to create wheelchair accessible beaches in Costa Rica, with rollaway ramps and wheelchairs that can be used on sand and in the water. She partners with attractions to ensure that her clients using wheelchairs can access transportation, restaurants, bathrooms, beaches and more. Stephanie’s face just lights up when talking about wheelchair accessibility on the ziplines, knowing that this experience is a unique one she provides to her clients. While she focuses on physical travel accessibility, I focus on cognitive disabilities and sensory issues during travel, and we both strive to make sure our clients are well prepared and cared for during their vacations. It seemed natural that Stephanie and I would work together at some point, and

we’ve been talking about me coming to visit Costa Rica to see all that it has to offer. Stephanie has been wanting to branch out and offer specific itineraries to families with autism and other cognitive disabilities. Stephanie says: “I wanted Nicole to come to Costa Rica because we wanted to really understand, train, and check travel suppliers to see if we are able to create accessible autism trips for families.” This collaborative trip finally became a reality this June 2021. My youngest son, Emerson, and I joined Stephanie, Emilio, and their two kids on a 12-day crosscountry trip to Costa Rica to personally experience as much of Costa Rica as possible to determine what attractions and destinations could be added to an autismfriendly itinerary. While we experienced these attractions and destinations in Costa Rica, I was mentally putting them into two categories: low-sensory and high-sensory activities. People with Autism often struggle with sensory issues while traveling, and I like to be able to provide insight into the sensory levels of attractions to my clients. If the person with autism is a sensory seeker, he or she may prefer high-adventure activities like white-water rafting or ziplining. Sensory defensive people may struggle with high adventure activities and might prefer a walk through a nature preserve to look for birds and sloths, a chocolate tour, or a day at the beach. Knowing the sensory levels of activities helps guide the creation of itineraries for families with someone on the autism spectrum. 

SO, WHAT ACTIVITIES MIGHT WE RECOMMEND FOR FAMILIES WITH AUTISM WHORPEFERLOWSENSORY ACTIVITIES? BALDI HOT SPRING: This water park includes several pools, water slides, and a kid’s zone, all with water temps of 105 degrees F/40.5 degrees C. With waters heated by the volcano, this park is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy some family time. (Those with sensory issues with water temperatures

may or may not enjoy a hot spring, so this activity would be to an individual’s preference.) THE ARENAL VOLCANO 1968 PARK: This nature park has several trails around the base of the Arenal Volcano. Grab a walking stick at the Visitor Center, check the map and head out at your own pace. Look for volcanic rocks, hike to the top to see the views, and make your way to the Observation Deck for snacks and a smoothie.

CUSTOMIZED EQUINE THERAPY SESSIONS AT HOTEL TILAJARI: Stay in this beautiful resort, and request daily sessions with the equine therapy team. The sessions include picture schedules to prepare riders for the session, activities with the horse that work on cognitive as well as physical goals, such as color matching and hand-eye coordination, and the session ends with feeding, tattooing (with washable paints) and bathing the horse. SURF LESSONS AT JACO BEACH: Jaco Beach is one of Costa Rica’s wheelchair

LOOK FOR VOLCANIC ROCKS, HIKE TO THE TOP TO SEE THE VIEWS, AND MAKE YOUR WAY TO THE OBSERVATION DECK FOR SNACKS AND A SMOOTHIE Left, clockwise: Horse 'tattooing' during an equine therapy session at Hotel Tilajari, Emerson & the Arenal Volcano, Adaptive surf lesson at the accessible Jaco Beach. Right: Hiking the trails at the Arenal Volcano 1968 park.

accessible beaches and home to the Accessible Surf Team of Costa Rica. They offer adaptive lessons to surfers of all abilities, including people with autism. From start to finish, the instructors work with their students, both on land as well as in the water, to prepare them for the waves. MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK: What’s not to love? The beaches. The pristine blue water. The pathways through the jungle, full of iguanas and sloths. Explore at your own pace, bring a bathing suit, and relax. 

Far left, clockwise: Emerson and the Adaptive Surfing Team of Costa Rica, Rappelling a waterfall at Pure Trek Cantoning Tour, Visiting Arenal Volcano 1968 park Main image: Climbing up the inside of a hollow 40 metre Ficus tree in the Cloud Forest of Monteverde, Costa Rica.

AND WHAT ACTIVITIES DO WE RECOMMEND FOR FAMILIES WITH AUTISM WHORPEFERHIGHSENSORY ACTIVITIES?

WHITE WATER RAFTING ON THE SARAPIQUI RIVER: After a lesson and safety check, you’re whisked down the river to navigate the Class III rapids, full of dips and waves between calmer areas. The guides were excellent in making sure the instructions were clear and understood before even getting in the boat. RAPPELLING DOWN A WATERFALL AT THE PURE TREK CANYONING TOUR: Thrills abound while descending this 160 foot/48 meter waterfall.(For people without a fear of heights.) SKY ADVENTURES CANOPY TOUR: Experience the sky tram, hanging bridges and multiple ziplines, all in view of the Arenal Volcano. TREETOP CLIMBING EXPERIENCE: Once suited up with safety gear, climb up the inside of a hollow 132 foot/40 meter Ficus tree to the observation deck at the top. (Not for the claustrophobic!) Now that our research trip is finished, Stephanie and I are working together to create autism-friendly itineraries for families based on our observations and experiences. As the saying goes: “If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met just one person with autism.” It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation, each trip will have to be tailored to the person’s individual sensory needs and preferences, but this sensory exploration for Costa Rica was a wonderful way of understanding what it has to offer travelers with autism.

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Accessible Bay of Plenty – paradise on New Zealand’s east coast

TRACKS AND TRAILS

There are many stunning walks in this region, and none is more famous than Mauao (Mount Maunganui), a dormant volcano steeped in Māori history and ancient stories. Access the summit with the TrailRider, a single wheeled e-powered mobility transport supporter. In the eastern part of the region, the White Pine Bush Scenic Reserve in Whakatāne contains huge kahikatea (white pine) trees and is a habitat for native birds. A 250-metre wheelchair-accessible walkway has been built into the heart of this reserve.

THINGS TO DO

Hit the beach Beach accessibility options are growing, including beach mats (usually in use between October and April) and beach wheelchairs (available to book at Pāpāmoa

Beach, Mount Maunganui Main Beach and Ōhope Beach.)Beautiful Waihī Beach has two beach wheelchairs and beach mats will be installed by late October 2021. There will also be a map available, highlighting the mobility offerings in the village. Adaptive surfing & sailing Parafed Bay of Plenty and Hibiscus Surf School run adaptive surfing events at Mount Maunganui during the summer months. They also offer “Friday Float” sessions that assist people with disabilities in the ocean. If you’re keen on sailing in the beautiful Tauranga harbour, Sailability Tauranga is a volunteer-based organisation that provides sailing opportunities for all abilities. Bayfair Shopping Centre Bayfair has 130 stores and restaurants on offer. It’s the first shopping centre to ever secure a Be.Welcome Platinum ranking and offers many accessible options including a sensory room, developed with guidance from Autism New Zealand. Blokart sailing Try “land sailing” in a wind-powered blokart! This fun activity was invented here in the Bay of Plenty and can be enjoyed using hand controls. Tandem karts are available ensuring those who cannot operate a blokart on their own can still enjoy the fun.

Image: Anna Schroeder

Te Moananui ā Toi | the Coastal Bay of Plenty, is a slice of paradise on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island. Made up of some of the country’s best beaches and outdoor trails, it’s a beautiful and exciting place for a holiday. The region is working toward expanding its accessible tourism offering and while it is still a work in progress, there are some wonderful experiences that you can take advantage of right now – especially if you love beaches and the great outdoors!

Maddison Snow & Michelle Kleynhans, from Goldfields School

Mount Hot Pools The famous salt water hot pools at the base of Mauao (Mount Maunganui) are a must when you visit the Bay. The pools offer a water wheelchair and hoist to assist customers in and out of the pools. For more information on an accessible holiday to the coastal Bay of Plenty, visit: bayofplentynz.com/experiences/ accessible-tourism

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Top tips for carefree beach holidays

The appeal of a sunny, warm holiday along our coastline is stronger than ever as the pandemic continues its relentless path. No one is doing any real travel overseas anytime soon, so how do we make the most of local beach travel opportunities? Australia’s pioneer disability equipment and car insurance specialist, Blue Badge Insurance, provides these great tips:

1. UNDERSTAND YOUR NEEDS, RESEARCH ACCORDINGLY

Obviously accommodation needs to be accessible, as do sightseeing and toileting stops. Similarly, your visits to the coastline. Although accessible beaches are becoming increasingly common, some areas are much better than others. Visit websites like Travel Without Limits and Accessible Beaches to build a list of beaches providing enjoyable access.

2. PLAN YOUR MOVEMENTS Once you’ve an understanding of where you’ll stop and for how long, plan a clever route. Making the fewest indoor stops

possible is especially important today. Which do you really need to make and what other planning will help you avoid high traffic areas, e.g. advance book an online grocery order to arrive at your accommodation.

3. CALL AHEAD ABOUT ACCESSIBILITY EQUIPMENT

5. GET THE RIGHT WAV AND WHEELCHAIR PROTECTION

Approach your trip with greater confidence by securing optimum protection for your WAV and wheelchair. Some key benefits of using Blue Badge Insurance are:

You may want to hire beachgoing equipment like an all-terrain wheelchair (or even a floating wheelchair!) and beach mat from a supplier near home or at your holiday location. First, check in with your destination’s local councils; they may hire these out. Some beaches even have permanent beach matting. Importantly, remember to book well in advance to get in before other holiday planners.

• Up to $150 a day for a hire car (enough for a rental WAV) if your vehicle’s in an accident or stolen, for up to 28 days • $5,000 in assistive technology insurance coverage if it’s damaged in a car accident • Legal liability for personal injury and property damage your chair may accidentally cause in holiday crowds • Knowledgeable service from disability insurance experts who’ll action your insurance claim quickly

Follow hygiene guidelines wherever you go: wear a mask, wash hands, stay 1.5m from others and don’t touch anything unless necessary. Perhaps set a regular timer to sanitise yourself, your WAV steering wheel and your wheelchair, depending on stops you’ve made.

6. ENJOY YOUR EFFORTS

4. STAY COVID SAFE

Preparation is key to making the most of the coast. Plan well so you’ve much more time to enjoy! Visit bluebadgeinsurance.com.au or call 1300 304 802.

Sailing on the electric ecoyacht Barbary to the famous Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings

NORTHERN EXPOSURE

WORDS: JULIE JONES

New Zealand packs a mighty punch as an accessible and inclusive holiday destination. Whether you are an adrenaline seeker or nature lover you’ll find plenty of ways to explore the North Island of New Zealand. fter two previous visits to the South Island, the time had come for our family to head north to explore the beaches, thermal wonderlands, and forests of the North Island. A week of adventure left us entertained, exhilarated and eager to explore more.

Craters of the Moon Taupo

TAUPO

Taupo is centrally located in the middle of the North Island of New Zealand; approximately 3&1/2 hours’ drive from Auckland. Its location provided an ideal base for our day tripping around the region. MINE BAY MAORI ROCK CARVINGS & A SUNSET CRUISE Taupo has a long list of must-see attractions, the most famous being Lake Taupo, often referred to as the great inland sea of New Zealand. Locals flock to the area in summer to enjoy a variety of watersports. We chose to explore the lake with a relaxing sunset cruise on the electric eco-yacht Barbary with the famous Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings listed as the highlight of the trip. Standing 14 metres above the water, the giant rock carving of Ngatoroirangi has been hailed as one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary contemporary Maori artworks. A refreshing swim in the lake, a glass of local wine and a pizza snack ensured we all disembarked happily. Due to the limited space onboard we sailed without our son’s wheelchair. For visitors needing to remain in their wheelchair, Chris Jolly Outdoors offers a similar cruise on Lake Taupo with wheelchair access on the Cruise Cat (gangway width on the Cruise Cat is 73cm). As with most boats, the steepness of the gangway will depend on water levels at the time of booking. 

GETTING STEAMED UP AMID THE GEOTHERMALS Overcast skies, plumes of steam and bubbling mud makes a visit to Craters of the Moon an otherworldly experience. An accessible boardwalk leads visitors around the popular tourist attraction which was created in the 1950s when the nearby power station lowered underground water levels. As hot water was withdrawn from deep within the field, the water level in the reservoir dropped and the remaining water boiled more violently, producing more steam. Large quantities of this extra steam escaped at Craters of The Moon which now draws curious tourists from around the world. Some inclines along the boardwalk required extra muscle-power with our son’s manual wheelchair. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a 40 minute drive from Taupo and is the most popular geothermal attraction in the area. Listed as one of New Zealand’s most colourful, diverse and extensive geothermal attractions was a statement we couldn’t resist. The Lady Knox Geyser at Wai-O-Tapu is a major drawcard. Enthusiastic crowds gather in the amphitheatre to watch its assisted eruption which reaches heights of 10-20 metres. While impressive, our favourite attraction was the Champagne Pool hot spring. Measuring 65 metres in diameter it holds the title of the largest hot spring in New Zealand. It’s estimated it was formed 700 years ago by a hydrothermal eruption. Although we did manage the day at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland with our son’s manual wheelchair, it was tough going in some areas, leaving us thinking a power wheelchair would be an asset.

Quad biking Taupo

RailCruising Rotorua

GET YOUR MOTOR RUNNING IN TAUPO New Zealanders love their adventure sports and have an inclusive attitude. It was therefore no surprise when my daughter wanted to go quad biking that the owner of Taupo Quad Adventures found a way for my son to join in too. My husband and daughter hopped on their bikes, and my son and I joined the owner in a buggy. We were all decked out in wet weather gear (practical but far from fashionable) ready for the muddy, messy conditions which would ultimately leave us smiling from ear to ear. Our gear had to be hosed off at the end, testament to a truly immersive experience.

ROTORUA CRUISING THE TRACKS Rotorua is an easy 60 minutes drive from Taupo and is home to RailCruising, which holds the title of being a world first. The RailCruising journey of 19kms

Hell's Gate Rotorua

between Mamaku and Tarukenga Railway Stations by self-drive rail car may be sedate but proved a winner with our whole family, including our transport-loving son. Ever-changing scenery and the audio tour kept us entertained as we cruised along at a leisurely pace of 20km per hour. The silence of our surrounds was only broken by the clickety-clack of the RailCruiser on the tracks and the giggling of the occupants in our rail car. Visitors need to be able to transfer from a wheelchair to step into the vehicle. It has a high side, so we needed to use portable stairs supplied by RailCruising. RELAXING IN MUDDY WATERS Relaxing in a thermal pool seems like a rite of passage when visiting New Zealand. Hell’s Gate Rotorua is the only Maori owned thermal pool and combines mud baths, thermal pools and a geothermal walk. As well as being a lovely relaxing experience, the geothermal mud has unique qualities, providing a gentle exfoliation of the skin. It’s also just plain fun covering yourself in mud and it makes for great photo opportunities. Time in the mud pools is limited to 20 minutes for safety, then it’s time to wash off the mud and relax in the thermal pools. After time in the pools, we wandered past the many bubbling mud pools, took a native bush walk, and saw New Zealand’s only mud volcano. Hell’s Gate is also home to Kakahi Falls, the largest hot waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere with a temperature of 40 degrees. As we were travelling with our son’s off-road tyres on his manual wheelchair, we managed to negotiate the uneven terrain involved in the geothermal walk, but a power wheelchair would have made it easier. In retrospect, we should have taken the walk first and then relaxed in the thermal pools.

Hell's Gate Rotorua

Snowplanet Auckland

AUCKLAND SNOW TO BEACH IN A DAY As we were visiting New Zealand in summer our only choice to hit the slopes was at Snowplanet, an indoor snow recreation centre located in Silverdale, about 30 minutes north of Auckland. Two snow tracks allowed us to try snow tubing for the first time. A ski mat, which works like a travelator, helped us get our son to the top of the track. From there we were able to double our son for the ride down on the tube. The average temperature is minus 5 degrees so appropriate clothing needs to be worn or hired. Keen to thaw out after our time at Snowplanet we took a 15 minute drive to the coast where we swapped our thermals for swimmers at Orewa Beach. The compact sand allowed us to get close to the water with our son’s wheelchair to enjoy a swim. Since our visit, a beach wheelchair program has emerged in New Zealand and chairs can be borrowed from various surf life saving clubs including Red Beach Surf Club Orewa, Long Bay, North Shore and Takapuna. Follow Grab Your Wheels Let’s Travel for news on other locations. Visit: grabyourwheels.nz

THE ETERNAL CITY

WORDS: CARRIE-ANN LIGHTLEY

“We’d do w hat we alw ays h adapt, and find our ow ave – n way"

ROME DISABLED ACCESS: PUSHING MY TRAVEL COMFORT ZONE

I’m sitting in an open air rooftop bar, holding a glass of chilled prosecco overlooking the ‘glory’ of Rome - the magnificent Colosseum. During moments like this, my guess is that many people would feel relaxed, content, and at peace. What I feel is relieved, empowered, and excited. Relieved that I arrived here safely, and with relative ease. Empowered, because, despite all the barriers in my way, I did it, I got here! And excited because, if I can get here, where else can I go? I’m a disabled woman who has a passion for travel; and despite all my years of experience working in the travel industry, I’d assumed that this trip would be impossible. That the city was too old, not accessible enough, that cobblestone streets and paths and ancient ruins, small hotel rooms and monuments packed with tourists would make it all too difficult. The final decision to go for it came when my husband reminded me that if things did get hard, we’d do what we always have – adapt, and find our own way.

ROME WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE HOTEL

On the recommendation of another wheelchair user, I stayed at the Mercure Roma Centro Colosseo hotel, just a few hundred yards from the Colosseum. The hotel has a ramped entrance for wheelchair users and people with limited mobility, a lift to all floors, wheelchair accessible rooms with double beds and wheel-in showers, and that lovely rooftop bar (as well as a rooftop pool). 

Watching waterfalls in Iceland

“The Colosseum is one of the gr eatest remnants of A ncient Rome"

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE PLACES TO VISIT IN ROME

As the city of Rome grew over the centuries, the major tourist attractions are quite spread out. Wheelchair accessible taxis and tour buses are available, but if you’re using a powerchair or a manual chair and a strong pusher, it is possible to get around under your own steam. I’d recommend a map, a guide book and a sense of adventure – Rome is a beautiful place to get lost in!

IS THE COLOSSEUM WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE?

The Colosseum is one of the greatest remnants of Ancient Rome. The size and detail of the monument combined with a little imagination will leave you in awe. You'd be forgiven for thinking that the Colosseum's disabled access would be difficult for wheelchair users - but thankfully it has been completely modernised and has a smooth flat surface throughout, as well as a lift and wheelchair accessible toilets.

ble

essi heelchair acc w n eo th n ome The Pa ument in R ancient mon

ROMAN FORUM WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

The Roman Forum was once the centre of Roman life, and it's amazing to see these buildings still standing (in one form or another) after so many years, it almost feels like you've gone back in time. For me, the Forum was the most difficult part of Rome to access in a wheelchair. There is a lift to take you down from street level, but the ground is so uneven that wheelchair users may struggle.

THE PANTHEON - WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE ANCIENT MONUMENT IN ROME

The Pantheon is said to be the best-preserved of Rome's ancient monuments (step back 2000 years) with its spectacular, concrete dome and extraordinary architecture. It's an amazing feeling to be inside a temple (now used as a church) which was built almost two thousand years ago. What happens when it rains? Look out for the drain holes in the marble floor. The Pantheon is wheelchair accessible, and entry is free.

DISABLED ACCESS IN ROME'S QUA S R ES|IAP ZNAA VONA

Piazza Navona is the showcase of central Rome. A beautiful square with street artists, ornate fountains and pavement cafes, makes it the perfect place to sit, watch the world go by and enjoy a gelato. Piazza Navona has a kerb to get into the middle of the square, with a slight step up. 

“A beautiful sq uare with stre et artists, ornate founta ins and pavem ent cafes"

CAMPO DE' FIORI - DISABLED ACCESS ROME MARKET

The colourful, loud, daily market at Campo de' Fiori is a part of Roman life. The tantalising aroma of spices, herbs and cheese fill the air and vendors encourage visitors to sample their produce. In the evening the square is transformed into a place to socialise, with lovely music, restaurants with a mix of locals and tourists. The square is level, with no kerbs. The ground is a cobbled surface, which is relatively smooth and pleasant for wheelchair users compared to some areas of the old parts of Rome.

DISABLED ACCESS AT THE OLDEST CHURCH IN ROME

Santa Maria in Trastevere is a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, said to be the oldest in Rome. It 'feels' much more like a church than St. Peter's Basilica - many tourists stumble across it by mistake, a respectful silence is observed, candles are lit and a few photographs taken. There are beautiful golden mosaics and ornate walls and ceilings. Santa Maria in Trastevere is wheelchair accessible, and entry is free.

“The colourfu l, loud, daily m arket at Campo de' Fio ri is a part of Roman life"

d ort disable aff will esc e Chapel" st m u se u n “Vatican M panion to the Sisti m o c 1 + s visitor

VATICAN MUSEUMS DISABLED ACCESS

Visiting the Vatican Museums is an unforgettable experience. Here is one the world's greatest art collections in such a beautiful setting. Don't try to cover it all in one visit - legend has it that viewing every exhibit could take 12 years! Be prepared for crowds which can make the experience stressful, but definitely worth it. Disabled access at the Vatican Museums allows wheelchair users and disabled tourists in Rome to go backwards along parts of the tour route and through roped off areas to avoid stairs.

IS THE SISTINE CHAPEL WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE?

The Sistine Chapel is one of the most famous works of art on the planet and is beautiful, aweinspiring, and everything you would expect. However, though adaptations for disabled access at the Sistine Chapel have been made, the wheelchair accessible route to the Sistine Chapel goes against the flow of people, and the sheer numbers of people packed into one space make it an uncomfortable experience. Despite all of this, the Sistine Chapel is a must-see for everyone visiting Rome. Vatican Museum staff will escort disabled visitors + 1 companion to the Sistine Chapel, as the wheelchair accessible route is roped off.

VISITING ST. PETER'S BASILICA AS A WHEELCHAIR USER

St. Peter's Basilica is Italy's largest church and a symbol of Rome. Its sheer size and beauty is incredible, and it's filled with history. As you'd expect, the crowds are large, but a respectful quiet is (mostly) observed and it's possible to find peaceful corners to take in the opulence of the interior. There are accessible toilet facilities. Admission to the church is free for all, and disabled visitors are entitled to skip the queues. The wheelchair accessible entrance is in St. Peter's Square, to the right of the Basilica's facade. This entrance has a lift that takes you from Square level to Portico level. Travelling to Rome, now one of my favourite cities, was a pivotal moment for me. For as long as I can remember I’ve been an anxious person, a worrier – overthinking every situation, always jumping to the worst-case scenario conclusion. The Rome trip wasn’t the first time I’d pushed against my travel comfort zone – at age 15 I’d tackled Berlin’s then-inaccessible U Bahn many times on a weeklong school history trip – but for whatever reason, sitting on that hotel rooftop with ancient civilisation lit up beneath me, a belief cemented. A belief that, although travelling as a wheelchair user isn’t always easy, it is worth the effort. Follow Carrie-Ann on Twitter @CarrieALightley

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Going Places… portable transfer devices Getting there and getting back is one thing, but if your destination is not specifically accessible and hire equipment not available, do you have the space or luggage allowance for your transfer needs? Depending on the level of assistance required, here are some options that might help.

AT RISK OF FALLING?

If you are ambulant but at risk of falls, it can be a big deterrent to travelling for fear that there will be a struggle to get back up again. The ELK and CAMEL lifting cushions are the most portable devices of their kind, giving you the peace-to-mind to adventure. They fit easily into the tightest spaces, are robust enough for outdoor use and are now regularly funded by the NDIS.

STANDING TRANSFERS

For the weight-bearing but non-ambulant transfer, our suggestion is the Merlin. Constructed of marine grade stainless steel, this device can be used with an optional harness for short distance upright transfers e.g. wheelchair to toilet. It can be separated into two smaller components for transport and is compact enough to be used in the smallest of poorly designed ‘accessible’ bathrooms!

THE PORTABLE LIFTING HOIST

The assistive technology market in Australia offers a number of hoists, which are advertised as ‘portable’. Before you invest,

check some of the following features that could have a big impact on which one is actually practical for you: • Size of the hoist once assembled – can it effectively lift you into your mobility device? • Weight of the hoist once folded – can your carers safely assemble and stow it? • Is there a travel case option – this is a must to protect your hoist when we can all fly again!

SPECIFIC NEEDS – SPECIAL SOLUTIONS

Some transfer needs can be very specific to you and hire is not an option – they have to travel with you. Examples include: • The Raiser lifting cushion, which helps to stand from lower seat heights. • The Sit-U-Up, a portable elevating backrest for when an adjustable bed is not available • The Bathing Cushion bath lift – when showering is not your preference

AND SOMETHING TOTALLY NEW…

Avant Innovations is now offering the unique Milo hybrid device which provides for seated or upright showering, hygiene and transfers. While it is not super compact, it may save taking two separate pieces of equipment in your van… Contact us for all this and more on 02 8315 2834 or browse avantinnovations.com.au

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Crown Towers Barangaroo, NSW

Para Mobility With the weather warming up, it’s time to start thinking about getting accessible in your home pool or even dreaming about that next accessible holiday to somewhere fabulous with sparkling water and sunshine! Many people who think about a pool hoist at home don’t know where to start, so the team at Para Mobility are here to help with 39 years expertise in access and inclusion for aquatic venues, at home, in hotels, or hospitals and even at leisure and entertainment venues. Enjoying time in a pool can be beneficial for so many reasons; for a vigorous workout, some gentle hydrotherapy, calming and relaxation or purely social for quality time with family & friends or even training for the Paralympics! Our team are passionate about creating experiences that enable lives by delivering functional, aesthetically pleasing, rainbow coloured, dependable pool hoists and they are dotted around thousands of locations across Australia and New Zealand.

Knox Leisureworks, VIC

IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER IF LOOKING FOR A POOL HOIST AT HOME:

• Not all hoists are created equal - Quality and Safety & Adaptability are key! • Make sure the pool hoist is: o Built for longevity i.e.value for money! o Made from Marine Grade Stainless steel, built for Australian conditions o Built & tested to Australian Standards AS 3581 AS 2569 AS/ANZ ISO 10525:2011 o Meets the Building Code of Australia DDA Disability Discrimination Act (Access to Premises Standards) • Check what experience the provider has and is there an opportunity to trial the hoist in a public place?

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

Swimming creates opportunities for social or community participation, enables mobility, provides exercise, weight loss, cardiovascular exercise, stimulates muscle tone and promotes blood circulation and of course a dash of splashing and laughter is good for everyone. Not to mention many wellness benefits, improving confidence and fitness and for so many people can be a much-needed mode of relaxation.

WHERE CAN I TRY ONE AND WHERE COULD MY NEXT ACCESSIBLE HOLIDAY BE!

Travel Dreaming Once we can all get out and about again, it will be great to get into the water, boating, swimming with dolphins, scuba diving. Check out some of these great locations with accessible pools available: • Sense of Self Day Spa, Collingwood VIC • Peninsula Hot Springs, VIC • Patterson Boat Ramp, VIC • Westin Hotel Brisbane, QLD • Sea World, Gold Coast, QLD • Tin Can Bay Sailability Club, Nth QLD • Tingirana Apartments, Noosa, QLD • Crown Towers Barangaroo, NSW • Gunyama Aquatic Centre, Zetland NSW • Ritz Carlton Hotel, Perth, WA • Determined2 Immersion Program, SA With nearly 40 years experience in the Aquatic Disability Equipment sector Para Mobility is the market leader in pool hoists and pool access products across Australia and New Zealand. We would love to help anyone considering pool access. Get in touch on 1300 444 600 or email us on sales@paramobility.com.au

POWERING THROUGH HOBBITON WORDS & IMAGES: KIMBERLY GRAHAM

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Finlay outside a typical Hobbit house

THE POWERCHAIR ALLOWED US TO FOLLOW BEHIND MOST OF THE GENERAL TOUR GROUP WITH OUR OWN PERSONAL GUIDE 101

Images, right : A Hobbit house next to the Woodcutters Place, Crossing the bridge to The Green Dragon Inn, The cheese makers house

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he school holidays were upon us and I announced to the kids that we were off to visit the Hobbiton Movie Set down in the Waikato. We binge watched the entire Lord of The Rings film trilogy to have ourselves prepped. Our family is always keen to visit somewhere new, but we do have to plan as much as we can to get the most out of any trip. Our oldest, Finlay, is 16, non-verbal and uses a powerchair for his mobility. His transfers are all performed using a mobile hoist, so family holidays outside the home can often feel like a leap of faith. Going anywhere entails a lot of planning and packing even for one night away! We decided to overnight close to the Hobbiton Movie Set in the small farming town of Matamata. We knew it was essential to pre-book for Hobbiton to prepare the staff around our access needs. The Movie Set is located on private farmland, so you arrive first at The Shire’s Rest and park up before taking a bus to the Movie Set. At The Shire’s Rest you will find plenty of parking, the ticket office, souvenir shop, café, accessible toilets and a fleet of green tour buses. Because the buses aren’t wheelchair accessible we were advised we would have our own personal golf-cart tour instead! This

got the kids excited, nothing like feeling you were getting VIP treatment. We arrived early to grab some breakfast at the café. To our demise the café was accessible only via a mountain of steps. We were told there were plans to remedy this with a lift at a later date. Our option was to sit below in the garden and make the staff go up and down with our orders. After finishing our delicious breakfast, we were greeted by our charming personal guide for the tour. His name was Luke and he instantly made us all feel at ease. Finlay being unable to self-transfer or sit in the golf-cart due to his cerebral palsy meant Luke opted to accompany us in our wheelchair accessible van to the start of the Movie Set. He was great fun to have on board with his knowledge and passion around the making of the films. His enthusiasm was infectious and soon had us absorbed in the world of The Lord of the Rings. Taking the powerchair was the best decision we could have made. Generally, with the golf-cart tour you are taken around alternative back ways to access parts of the Movie Set. Your manual wheelchair or walker can either be attached on the back, or taken onto the infamous Green Dragon Inn

to await your arrival there. The powerchair allowed us to follow behind most of the general tour group with our own personal guide. There was so much to take in and my camera just kept snapping one picturesque scene after another. We were absolutely entranced and delighted by everything. The creativity that has gone into every detail is incredible. Luke pointed out items along the way where we had to guess if they were real or not. Pretty much everything down to the moss on the gates had been painstakingly created. The 44 little Hobbit holes display their own unique characters with a different garden scene behind every miniature picket fence. Finlay and I couldn’t head up to Bilbo Baggins’ house as the paths became steeper, a little more winding with a few steps. However, we could see it from afar and didn’t feel we were missing out too much. We then descended onto the Party Field, home to the famous Party Tree where Bilbo Baggins delivered one of his renowned long speeches before leaving the Shire. Here is where you can see all the landmarks Sir Peter Jackson sent his location scouts out to search for. Who would have thought a humble private sheep farm in the heart of the Waikato would hold the perfect location? There is a real priority here to keep everything as it was when the movies were first made. The hardpacked dirt paths are well maintained to prevent any water damage or general wear and tear. When this movie set was first created, they wouldn’t have considered it becoming the international tourist attraction it is today. Access for wheelchairs hadn’t even entered their minds. I was pretty impressed with how much we could access with the powerchair. We were even able to wheel all the way across the bridge, past the Millhouse and Gandolf’s horse cart, to enjoy a courtesy pint of ale inside the Green Dragon Inn. Here you will find more accessible toilets, a roaring log fire and imagine Rosie behind the bar pulling a pint with all your favourite Hobbits around you. We felt real family inclusion here in terms of adapting to our access needs. Our family was buzzing for days afterwards. The Hobbiton Movie Set is a must-do when in New Zealand, no matter what your access needs are. Kimberly Graham writes about accessible & inclusive travel at grabyourwheels.nz

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It’s safe to say that power wheelchairs have come a long way over the years. What was once just an electrically-powered wheelchair in limited configuration is now a complex custom device, sporting multiple power seat functions, drive wheel options and even memory seating profiles. As technology continues its path to augment our everyday life, the “connected wheelchair” is a natural progression. The MyPermobil app is available for new Permobil F3, F5, F5VS, M3 and M5 Corpus wheelchairs equipped with Connect hardware, and is free to download! Once activated, MyPermobil communicates directly with your power wheelchair and provides real-time insights on battery range estimates, distance travelled and seating system behaviour. So, what does this mean when you’re out and about? You get a visual picture in hours or kilometres of how far you can go each day, how far you went before (perfect for long trips!) and the ability to plan your journey using the integrated map with GPS function. If you reposition often throughout the day, the app also shows precise data on seating angles and adjustment tracking. The latest update to MyPermobil also adds a Voice Assistant using Amazon’s Alexa or Google Assistant, giving users hands-free access to the functions via voice commands. A connected Permobil chair does more than just give the user insights. Should anything go wrong while you’re away, the Connect hardware communicates errors to your service provider remotely, enabling faster troubleshooting and ultimately less downtime for you. Stay informed and feel confident whether you’re going around the block or on an adventure a little further from home. Visit: hub.permobil.com.au/mypermobil-2.0 Email: info.au@permobil.com Phone: 1300 845 483 to find your local retailer.

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106 The sky’s the limit at iFLY Queenstown 108 Trackside with Paralympian Robyn Lambird 110 Kids Picks 112 Directory

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THE SKY'S THE LIMIT

Images: Matt Wong, iFLY

Flying on a cushion of air with no great distance between you and the earth below can satisfy the adrenaline junkie - but hey, maybe it’s the introduction to something wilder. iFLY extends an invitation to fly, or perhaps float. WORDS: JULIE JONES When I chatted with Matt Wong, owner of iFLY Queenstown in New Zealand, it was a joy to realise we speak the same language. I don’t mean English; I’m referring to the language of access and inclusion. Occasionally I meet someone who, despite having no lived experience with disability, just gets it, and Matt is one of those people. iFLY franchises around the world offer indoor

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flying experiences for ages five to 105 years of age with no experience necessary. Unlike skydiving from a plane, where you jump and fall several thousands of feet, at iFLY you fly gently on a cushion of controlled air. It offers all the thrills of flying minus the danger. Matt recently purchased the business having launched iFLY Queenstown three years ago, and in this time he’s truly embraced inclusion. As an international brand, iFLY is strong in the inclusive movement but it’s clear Matt has plans to take it to the next level with his own business. He says the core principle that drives his business is a person-centred approach and used a Maori saying which refers to looking after people: “He aha te mea nui o te ao (What is the most important thing in the world?): He tangata, he tangata, he tangata” (It is the people, it is the people, it is the people). It all began for Matt when began when he was approached by Jezza Williams, the founder of MakingTrax, and respected thought leader in the area of inclusion. Jezza asked iFLY Queenstown to become a member of MakingTrax, a not-forprofit aiming to open up tourism to all abilities. Matt welcomed the opportunity and over time he became keen to learn more to ensure his membership was not merely a token gesture. He met with Jezza again but this time it was to gain an understanding of how businesses in Queenstown could drive the movement and to educate the iFLY staff. Matt believes it’s important that all his staff are trained and can support any guests with a disability and has picked a team that shares his values.

HE TANGATA, HE TANGATA, HE TANGATA” (IT IS THE PEOPLE, IT IS THE PEOPLE, IT IS THE PEOPLE).

Jack Howatson is a raving fan of the iFLY Queenstown team and has become a regular flyer and unofficial ambassador for the business. Jack sustained a spinal cord injury while snowboarding. Seeing a video on iFLY he was immediately keen to give it a go. Jack says the staff at iFLY are “welcoming, laid back and make anything work. Nothing is a drama for them.” Proof of this is the pool noodle adaptation brace the team created for Jack to keep his legs together when he flies. Jack attributes his time flying with improving his health and building a great sense of community for him. When asked what tips he’d have for nervous first-time flyers, Jack’s answer is simple:, “Go for it, the staff are awesome.”

Seeing the difference iFLY makes to his customers has further fuelled Matt’s passion to encourage other businesses to adopt an inclusive approach to tourism. Matt says being inclusive is “not that hard” and businesses shouldn’t be scared to embrace it. Instead, they should work collaboratively, talk to people with lived experience to understand what they need and stop putting it off. Matt says inclusive tourism should be a responsibility and priority for businesses. It would seem iFLY has encouraged Jack to believe the sky really is the limit because he now has his sights set on flying beyond the tunnel and going for his skydiving licence. iflynz.co.nz

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TRACKSIDE WITH PARALYMPIAN ROBYN LAMBIRD Robyn Lambird was gearing up for the Paralympics when she took time out from the track to chat to us about travel and her bid for a medal in wheelchair racing in Tokyo. Robyn, please tell us a bit about yourself. Hi! I’m 24 years old and I am an elite athlete, a social media creative, model and disability advocate. I love vintage fashion, travel and good coffee. What is the biggest challenge you encounter when you travel? The biggest challenge for me when travelling, especially overseas, is accessibility. I love places that are rich in history and beautiful architecture but these often present as the trickiest environments.

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How do you overcome or manage travel challenges? I am an ambulatory wheelchair user meaning that I can walk but I use a chair to manage things like fatigue. When travelling I usually make a rough plan for my day ahead of time so I can figure out what types of places I am going to be visiting, what access to these places is likely to be like, and whether it will be easier for me to walk or roll. If it’s going to be easier for me to walk I like to check out whether there might be some cool cafes or parks nearby that I

can take some time to chill and recoup my energy in between sightseeing if need be. This way I can give my body what it needs whilst soaking up as many experiences as possible. Tell us about a holiday or trip you’ve taken that was a success? What made it a success? I loved New York! My partner and I were lucky enough to stay with some friends of mine in the Lower East Side, and it instantly became my favourite destination. The

Robyn crossing the Brooklyn Bridge New York

Congratulations on winning a bronze medal at the Paralympics

Robyn competing

tourist destinations were generally fairly accessible but to be honest outside of going to the theatre we spent most of our time hanging out with locals, eating multicultural delights, thrifting for vintage goodies, and checking out art galleries. To me the best holidays are always the ones experienced away from the tourist traps and immersed in local culture. The public transport system over there was definitely less than ideal for people with physical disabilities, so I’d recommend looking into it before your trip to figure out the best way to get around, but everyone was very friendly and offered as much help as possible. What are your top travel tips? What do you wish you knew the first time you travelled? Don’t get all of your travel advice from guide books! Whilst they are a great place to start I thoroughly believe in scouring places like Instagram to find the spots that are creating a buzz locally. I think this allows you to be absorbed into the culture as much as possible and by avoiding the tourist traps it actually saves you money that you can then spend on the things you really value. I’m a big foodie so I’ll always check out food related hashtags before visiting somewhere, but whatever your interests are I can guarantee someone has written a blog or social media on the hot spots for

that particular thing: so do your research! Also, I always allow time in my schedule for wandering. As long as I have access to a map so I can find my way back to my accommodation, I like to just go for a stroll and explore the different neighbourhoods around where I am staying. Some of the best holiday moments for me have sprung from this spontaneity and I think you alway remember those special gems that you just so happen to discover. Most map apps these days will also give you a fairly good indication on the accessibility of an area too, so you can always check those out to get a rough idea on which routes are going to work for you. What does travel mean to you? I’ll always travel if the opportunity arises, I think it’s a wonderful way to experience new things and to expand my perspectives. There is so much to learn in the history and culture of other places, and delving into that is one of the best ways to grow as a person. What improvements would you like to see in the future in the tourism industry? I would like to see disabled people valued in the tourism market. There are so many of us that want to be out there experiencing all that the world has to offer, but we are still so often held back - whether that be from a lack of accessibility or the nightmare that

can be flying with a disability. Given the impact of Covid on international sport,we’d like to know more about how you prepared for the Tokyo Olympics Covid has meant that I haven’t had access to the international competition and depth of competition that I would usually have access to in the lead up to a majors. The Swiss Grand Prix for example is usually the highlight of our season and a place where I’d typically get to test myself amongst the world's best before heading to a big event. Without these events it’s been a little harder to track my progress through the season and to remain motivated. However, travel places quite a bit of stress on the body especially when you are competing at a high level so in some ways I think it’s been quite advantageous to just spend a season at home working through all the fundamentals and building on my strengths, Overall I’m just looking forward to soaking up the atmosphere at my first Paralympic Games and am aiming to give a well rounded performance that reflects the last five years of training, if I end up on the podium that will be a huge bonus! Follow Robyn on Instagram @robynlambird Tokyo update Just before going to print we had the pleasure of watching Robyn win a bronze medal at the Paralympics in Tokyo.

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KIDS PICKS Arran is a well travelled 12 year old with plenty sage advice for others looking to travel the world. person in Denmark, three! I would move to Copenhagen in an instant!

Can you tell us a bit about yourself? Hi my name is Arran Keith, I am 12 years old, I live in Sydney NSW, I'm a keen supporter of rugby league and want to own a whippet! I have CP, mixed spastic dystonic quadriplegia, but it does not hold me back. I get around in a walker at my fantastic local inner west school and enjoy cycling on my trike, frame running (racerunning) at the track or park with my mates, footie and travelling with my family. Tell us about your favourite holiday so far? I have holidayed in Scotland, England, France and most recently in 2018 for four weeks in Denmark, Norway and Sweden which was my favourite so far. Copenhagen was awesome and really accessible and there I was lucky enough to compete for Australia in my first international frame running championship, won a few medals and made a lot of great friends who love frame running like me. It was the trip of a lifetime as we stayed in Copenhagen, then took an overnight ferry to Oslo, train and fjord ferry to Bergen, flew over to Stockholm then drove back down to Copenhagen again! Phew! What made it so good? I have to say driving a Twizzy electric car at Flam, in Norway, (Dad was steering of course) along the side of the fjord. Then eating reindeer jerky on the fjord cruise, swimming in Copenhagen harbour, zooming around in a Christiania bike in Copenhagen to meet my grandparents and new mate Noel Eriksson Green from Sweden. Everywhere we went I could use my walker with no bother at all. Did you know there are three bikes for every

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Was there anything you didn’t like about it? I didn’t like it when we visited a museum in Aarhus where we saw the famous Bog man, from medieval/Viking times. He looked quite freaky to me!

Arran Keith

Right, clockwise: Arran at Legoland Denmark, Arran & Dad (Richard) Climbing the back streets in a French village, Rain or shine, this is the only way to get about Copenhagen on a Christiania bike. Keep pedaling Dad, Electric Twizzy car fun on the Flam Railway and Fjord boat trip from Oslo to Bergen in Norway

Do you have any problems when you travel? Not really as I have a foldable walker which is sometimes stowed in aeroplane cabins or in the hold. At airports, like Dubai, it’s great as we are able to skip the large queues with the help of the ground and airport staff, ride in buggies and get to meet the fun airline staff who I enjoy chatting and having a joke with. My family arranges ahead for disabled access to be available so I can get most places by myself which is perfect. Be it planes, trains, cars or buses, we are able to do them, travel in them and enjoy the holiday. What’s your top travel tip for other kids? Take the good with the bad, be loud and proud and friendly with people who stop and stare at you. When they hear me talking their assumptions of my disability are changed and it makes it more fun. Make sure they talk to you and not your parents or family. High five when you can! If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you like to go and why? Germany because I have not been there yet, it sounds really interesting and I want to find out about the culture and stuff.

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Before you pack your car, check your insurance. With Blue Badge you get:

The Disability & Independence Insurance Specialists

Discounted premiums, by up to 25%* New for old replacement option for disability conversions^ Cover your family, friends, carers or support workers who drive your car Up to $150 rental car beneﬁt for up to 28 days following theft Up to $5,000 cover for wheelchairs, mobility scooter or walkers if damaged while in your car

LET’S TALK: 1300 304 802 www.bluebadgeinsurance.com.au

*Discounts for the Blue Badge Insurance Comprehensive Motor Vehicle Insurance will be applied to the base vehicle premium rate subject to the customer holding a disability parking permit and/or the vehicle has been converted for use by a driver of passenger with disability. ^ New for old replacement on conversions up to 5 years old from newly installed to a maximum value of $75,000. For full details of the terms, limits and exclusions and to decide if the cover is suitable to you please read the Product Disclosure Statement at www.BlueBadgeInsurance.com.au. Blue Badge Insurance is underwritten by Paciﬁc International Insurance Pty Ltd (ABN 83 169 311 193 | AFS Licence No. 523921) and distributed by Blue Badge Insurance Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 18 620 594 765) as an Authorised Representative of Paciﬁc International Insurance Pty Ltd (A.R. No. 1274770).

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More than

60 EXHIBITORS

at Australia’s foremost assistive technology event

24-25 NOV 2021

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Have commode, will travel!

Introducing the Sharky Bathroom Chair. The Sharky multi-functional bathroom chair is designed for busy families on the move. This versatile commode is easily adapted for use over a toilet and in the bath. It’s also convenient to store and travel, easily folding down to a compact height of just 28cm (including the seat). Other features include: • A 45-degree tilt-in-space mechanism with locking bolts (for safe tilting while showering) • Effortless height adjustment via gas pressure springs • Removable section in rear area for improved hygiene care • Easy care removable padding for cleaning • Detachable footrest system

To find out more and watch the full video series, visit www.medifab.com.au, or reach out to our friendly team on 1300 543 343 or via email solutions@medifab.com.

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Mable is a website where people living with disability can find and connect directly with independent support workers. By joining Mable, you’re able to: Choose your independent support worker from over 10,000 people offering care and support services.

Choose which services you need from the wide range people offer through the website.

Choose when you receive those services so you can fit the support to your schedule.

Choose with confidence knowing all workers have the relevant Police and reference checks.

Scan the QR code to learn more, or visit mable.com.au

Shaping Better Lives

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GO enjoy the freedom of technology that’s more breathable, lightweight and easier to install, lock and remove.

GO be your best you. With Zygo, you can go for it. GO YOU. Visit spexseating.com/zygo for more.

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Unpack, Unfold and Go 8 models to choose from including NEW Luggie TravelRider Powerchair: • Folds flat for easy loading • Lightweight IATA approved Li-ion batteries • Carrying capacity up to 160 kg • University tested for public transport • Comfortable padded seat • Puncture proof tyres

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GO ANYWHERE!!

This is an all-terrain/ beach wheel chair which will travel easily over all terrains (sand, gravel, snow, mud, grass) and also allows the user water access to the surf, creeks, lakes and rivers. Made of high quality marine grade stainless steel, the Sandcruiser® features multi directional front wheels, four WheelEEZ® low pressure balloon wheels, fully adjustable leg rest and anti-tip breaking system.

Lightweight, rugged and compact when folded this off-road all-terrain 3-wheeler offers access to the great outdoors in a range of sizes for children and adults with mobility problems. The unique multi-position rear axle allows optimum set-up of dynamic stability and balance making the Delta easy to push and maneuver. The Delta Buggy comes in a range of styles, sizes and colours as well as offering a wide variety of accessories and seating supports.

The Hippocampe® all-terrain chair has received numerous awards for its design. It is just at usable on the beach as on the snow, and can be transformed into a ski chair thanks to its front and rear ski kits (as an option). Lightweight, collapsible, and easily transportable: Its small size, fold-down backrest, removable push bar and wheels and its weight of 17kg (37.5 lb.) make it easily transportable and convenient to store in your home or in its transport bag (as an option).

The possibilities are endless.. Phone: 0417 613 566 Email: info@beachwheelsaustralia.com

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ACCESS FOR ALL avantinnovations.com.au

Australia’s most innovative Assistive Technology distributor now offering a broad range of beach access products for all ages & abilities. Contact us to trial at your favourite break!

LET'S GET OUT AND PLAY Helping people with a disability for 35 years

We supply more than just Frame Runners

www.dejay.com.au

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Large bodysuits to assist everyday living • unisex onesies to help keep wandering hands out of nappies & pants • deters inappropriate undressing & other challenging behaviour • range includes back-zips & tummy access styles for tube feeding • available in sizes for kids & adults • soft cotton & tag-free to minimise irriation

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Find your new home achieveaustralia.org.au

We are excited to share our current accessible disability accommodation vacancies in Sydney and invite you to discover what supported independent living with Achieve can mean for your lifestyle. Achieve has partnered with IHA - Inclusive Housing Australia, and together we have more than 65 years’ experience in the sector. We currently have vacancies in shared platinum, accessible apartments in Ryde and homes in north western and western Sydney, so we invite you to learn about our property features and the services we can offer. We are here to support you to find your next home. For more information on our properties and services, visit our website achieveaustralia.org.au There you can see our vacancies, view frequently asked questions, access tips on how to assess properties as well as hear from some of our current residents on what independence with Achieve and IHA feels like. For all enquiries contact Jeremy Edwards jedwards@achieveaustralia.org.au 0420 984 214

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Access & freedom Para Mobility specialises in the design, manufacture and distribution of disability equipment. Our key Australian made products include: • • • • • •

Swimming Pool Hoists Aquatic Wheelchairs Powered & Manual Change Tables Ceiling Hoists & Tracks Pool Platforms Customised Pool Steps

Phone 1300 444 600 sales@paramobility.com.au www.paramobility.com.au

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Be a part of the most inclusive travel magazine around. Contact us to find out how you can showcase your accessible and inclusive offering. travelwithoutlimits.com.au/advertise

Heath is a cheeky one-year-old who loves a cuddle. Thanks to the Little Wings charity he has been able to access the regular medical treatment he needs at Westmead Children's Hospital in Sydney with ease.