Rainforest wonder now easier for all to explore

Sunshine Coast Council purchased the $22,000 Observer Aussie Bush 4x4 electric wheelchair through its Accessibility Fund.

This helps make the Sunshine Coast and its lifestyle more accessible to people with restrictions and increases inclusivity.

Sunshine Coast Council Division 5 Councillor Winston Johnston said locals and visitors cared deeply for the rainforest and now Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve was even more accessible for all to enjoy.

“I’m thrilled Council is able to offer a safe and accessible way for all members of our community to enjoy a rainforest experience at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve,” Cr Johnston said.

“Many people enjoy the natural wonders of Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, overlooking the spectacular Glasshouse Mountains.

“Our new 4WD electric wheelchair can be used on the Pademelon track and will enable people who would not have been able to access the trails to be able to enjoy all the sights and sounds of the rainforest.

“It is now available to be booked ahead of your visit to the reserve, and I’m looking forward to seeing people of all abilities discovering the forest at their own pace.

“This is another way we are working with our community to nurture and enhance our environment and quality of life.”

Improving accessibility for all

Strong Community Portfolio Councillor Taylor Bunnag said he was proud Council was helping to create a more inclusive region where everyone could participate equally and feel valued.

“This 4WD wheelchair is one way we are able to improve accessibility to the wonders of Mary Cairncross, benefitting those with disabilities and also their carers, families and friends,” Cr Bunnag said.

“Inclusion builds a strong community where everyone can feel valued and can participate in all aspects of community life.

“Council has committed to improving access and inclusion for all and the Sunshine Coast All Abilities Action Plan 2024-2028 outlines detailed actions Council will undertake over the next five years to improve inclusion for people with disability.

“The measures are practical and include enhancing physical accessibility in public spaces, and this 4WD wheelchair, funded by the Sunshine Coast Council Accessibility Fund, is a great example of how we are achieving this.”

Making a difference

Sporting Wheelies (powered by Spinal Life Australia) Chief Operating Officer Dane Cross said the 4WD wheelchair at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve represented an innovative and transformative step in breaking down barriers to access for people with disabilities.

“It enables individuals with mobility challenges to experience the rainforest’s beauty in a way that was previously inaccessible, promoting inclusion in nature-based experiences, and without necessitating paved or concrete pathways through precious habitats,” Mr Cross said.

“It aligns with the broader vision of making the Sunshine Coast a leader in accessible and inclusive tourism, showcasing a commitment to accessibility and innovation.

“Initiatives like these set a benchmark for other reserves and parks to follow, encouraging widespread adoption of inclusive practices in environmental tourism.”

Into the forest again

Joan McVilly is a volunteer at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve who uses the 4WD wheelchair to access the rainforest for her shifts on the trail.

“I really appreciate being able to get out into the forest again,” Ms McVilly said.

“I commend all involved in making this possible, especially the dedicated and diligent staff at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve.”

Accessibility projects

Through its Accessibility Fund, Council improved accessibility throughout the region on a range of initiatives with $300,000 invested this year, following $150,000 funding last year.

Other projects funded this year include Mooloolaba Surf Club accessibility equipment, and a new DDA picnic table installed at Glenbrook Downs Park in Nambour.

Projects last year included a new beach mat and beach trolley for the Accessible Beach Program at Dicky Beach, playground assessment and park design for an all-abilities playground at Kevin Asmus Park in Buddina.

Cr Bunnag said there are many other Council initiatives that improved inclusion for people with disability, including Council’s award winning Briometrix mobility maps program.

“This clever project collects information about footpath conditions, access to public transport and parking, amenities, boardwalks, beach access and more, with data placed on Council’s website.” Cr Bunnag said.  

“It makes it easier for people of all abilities to get out and enjoy our Sunshine Coast way of life and has been expanding across the Coast since starting in 2022 as a trial project.”

How to book the 4WD wheelchair

Bookings are now available through Council’s Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve website.

Residents and visitors are asked to please book the 4WD wheelchair ahead of time and before your visit.

The 4WD is available for hire from 10am to 2pm daily.

What to know before you visit

• Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve welcomes all visitors, providing accessible spaces and inclusive experiences.
• Rainforest walks are open from 7am to 6pm daily.
• The circuits are between 1.3km and 1.7km long, including the rainforest loop, pademelon loop and piccabeen loop.
• These internal circuits are classified as Grade 2 tracks: the track is a hardened and compacted surface and may have gentle hill sections and occasional steps.
• Wheelchair accessibility is catered for on both the Glider Gallery boardwalk (accessed through the Rainforest Discovery Centre) and Butterfly Walk (following the open-lawn perimeter).
• The 4WD Electric Wheelchair can be used on the Pademelon track.

To access the mobility maps please visit Council’s Mobility Mapping website.

For more information about accessible recreation, tourism, transport and services, visit Council’s website.