The Bundaberg Botanic Gardens and Bundaberg Regional Libraries has received recognition in the 2024 Access Recreation Awards for efforts in creating accessible and inclusive environments for people of all abilities.
The awards were presented during the celebration of Disability Action Week and International Day of People with a Disability, with the winners chosen by the Access and Inclusion Panel.
The panel, which is made up of individuals with disabilities and their support workers, commended both Council facilities for their ongoing improvements and initiatives designed to enhance the experience for all visitors.
The Bundaberg Botanic Gardens was awarded in the Disability Friendly Tourist Destination category while Bundaberg Regional Libraries received the Most Disability Friendly Community Venue award.
Community, Resilience, and Connection portfolio spokesperson, Deputy Mayor Tracey McPhee said the awards were a testament to Council’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and accessible community.
“Accessibility is vital as it removes physical and social barriers, ensuring that residents can access services and facilities and therefore opportunities,” she said.
“This fosters an inclusive community where people feel valued and empowered and can participate in everyday life.
“These awards highlight the incredible efforts of our Council staff, whose proactive and thoughtful work can sometimes go unrecognised.
“Their dedication to improving accessibility and inclusivity in our parks, gardens, and libraries ensures these spaces are welcoming for everyone in our community.
“This achievement is a reflection of their hard work and commitment to making a real difference.”
Access Recreation’s Pamela Tuesley said Access Recreation were pleased to have been able to acknowledge both facilities.
“Both spaces offer somewhere safe and accessible for many living with disabilities, of all ages,” she said.
“Accessibility may not always mean physical access, sometimes individuals require safe spaces where they can visit to assist themselves to re-regulate, reduce sensory overload or give them access to available resources.
“Access Recreation prides itself in acknowledging, engaging and supporting individuals to access the life they want, and these are two spaces that are participant favourites when looking for some down time within the community.”
Accessible outcomes at the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens include:
- Continual improvement of footpath networks to ensure easier access for all visitors
- Accessible playground designed to be inclusive, with features for children of all abilities
Accessible outcomes at Bundaberg Regional Libraries include:
- Spacious, comfortable areas for relaxing, socialising, or enjoying quiet time
- A wide range of materials in accessible formats, including books, DVDs, magazines, and audiobooks
- Quiet spaces for learning, playing, or socialising in a peaceful environment
- The Ability Diverse program, offering monthly activities for all abilities, including crafts and community visits such as trips to the zoo.
