VICTORIA'S NATIONAL PARKS MORE ACCESSABILE THAN EVER

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

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

“In the past two years, we have been introducing all -terrain wheelchairs to parks across the state.

It's fantastic to see people who otherwise have limited mobility, getting out and enjoying time at the beach or taking in the stunning views in the Grampians, Wilsons Promontory or Alpine national parks,” he said.

All-terrain wheelchairs are available in the Grampians, Wilsons Promontory, Cape Conran and Point Nepean national parks and Lysterfield Park.  They are also available at selected shires close to the Great Otway, Alpine and Mornington Peninsula National Parks and other park locations.

Other initiatives:

• Wilsons Promontory National Park and Cape Conran Coastal Park are equipped with accessible self-contained cabins. These feature accessible bathrooms and electric high-low beds.  A personal hoist and specialised bathroom equipment including a shower commode chair are also available.

• A new pilot Sherpa Volunteer Program has been introduced in the Grampians National Park, where visitors can book a volunteer to push the all-terrain wheelchair. The service is free but bookings are essential.

• Improved park access information on Parks Victoria's website including photos and descriptions for more than 35 of Victoria's most visited parks.

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