Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Brisbane, Australia!

Treasury Casino

Why Visit?

Embark on an accessible and enthralling tour of Brisbane with a highlight visit to the iconic Treasury Casino, situated in the heart of the city. This historic building, once the Treasury Building of the Queensland Government, offers not only games but also a glimpse into Brisbane"s rich past.

Morning - Arrival and Exploration

Start your day by arriving in Brisbane’s vibrant CBD. The Treasury Casino is conveniently reachable via public transport with wheelchair-accessible buses and trains frequently servicing the area. If you"re arriving by train, disembark at the South Brisbane station, from which the casino is just a short, flat walk away. For those driving, the Treasury offers accessible parking options close to its entrances.

Late Morning - Treasury Casino

Enter the Treasury Casino from the main entrance on George Street which provides easy access for wheelchairs and scooters. Inside, you’ll find that the main gaming floor is wheelchair-friendly, with wide aisles and accessible gaming tables. The building itself, dating back to 1886, is a marvel of Edwardian-Baroque architecture, with its vast chambers and impressive facades now hosting thrilling games and high-quality entertainment.

Lunch

For lunch, head to one of the nearby cafes along the Brisbane River. Wheelchair-accessible paths line the river, offering great views and smooth riding. Opt for the Riverbar and Kitchen, which offers easy access and a menu that catifies to all tastes.

Afternoon - Queen Street Mall

Post-lunch, wheel your way up to the Queen Street Mall, just a 5-minute journey from the casino. This pedestrian mall provides level access to a plethora of shops and street entertainers.

Evening - South Bank Parklands

Conclude your day at South Bank Parklands. Access the park via the accessible wheel-train or simply stroll/roll across the Victoria Bridge. The Parklands are fully accessible, featuring smooth paths, adapted restrooms, and serene spots like the Epicurious Garden.

This day-long itinerary offers a seamless experience combining leisure, culture, and splendid city sights, all accessible for wheelchair users and those on mobile scooters, ensuring a delightful visit to Brisbane’s treasures.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

North Gorge Walk

Why Visit?

Exploring North Gorge Walk: A Wheelchair-Friendly Guide

Morning: Arrival & Start at Point Lookout

Begin your adventure at Point Lookout, easily accessible by car with parking available at the Point Lookout Community Hall, where designated disabled parking spaces are available. From here, you can access the iconic North Gorge Walk, renowned for its stunning coastal views. The walk is fully paved and accessible to wheelchairs and mobile scooters, ensuring everyone can enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

Mid-Morning: Journey through North Gorge Walk

Set off on the 1.2 km loop of the North Gorge Walk, which offers smooth paths and several viewing platforms overlooking the ocean. The pathway is well-maintained and features handrails and ramp access where needed. As you navigate the trail, keep an eye out for migrating humpback whales from June to November, and resident dolphins that play in the waves below. Information panels along the path provide fascinating details about the local marine life and geography.

Lunch: Picnic at Headland Park

Halfway along the walk, you"ll find Headland Park, the perfect spot for a picnic lunch. There are accessible picnic areas with stunning sea views. Local shops at Point Lookout can supply all the essentials for a delightful picnic, from fresh sandwiches to tropical fruits.

Afternoon: Explore More & Departure

After lunch, continue the loop back to the starting point. The latter part of the walk offers panoramic views of Main Beach stretching endlessly toward the horizon. Once the loop is completed, rest at one of the cafes near the Community Hall, offering accessibility and ocean-view terraces, perfect for a relaxing end to your day.

Departure

Wrap up your visit by heading back to the parking area, inspired by the natural beauty and accessibility of North Gorge Walk. Whether you"re local or visiting, this wheelchair-friendly excursion promises a memorable and inclusive experience of Queensland"s stunning coastal landscapes.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

North Stradbroke Island (Straddie)

Why Visit?

Embark on an accessible adventure to North Stradbroke Island, affectionately called "Straddie," a gem off the coast of Queensland, Australia. The island is a serene escape with mobility-friendly amenities, making it a perfect spot for a wheelchair or scooter tour.

Getting There

Start your journey at Cleveland, just south of Brisbane, where you can board the vehicle ferry with your wheelchair or scooter. The ferry is equipped with accessible facilities, ensuring a comfortable crossing to Dunwich on Straddie.

Day 1: Historical Dunwich

Upon arrival in Dunwich, explore the quaint town. Visit the North Stradbroke Island Historical Museum, which offers wheelchair access, to dive into the rich indigenous and colonial history of the island.

Day 2: Brown Lake

Next, head to Brown Lake, named for its tea-colored waters due to the surrounding tea trees. The lake’s perimeter boardwalk is wheelchair-accessible, allowing for peaceful views and a connection with nature. It"s a perfect spot for a picnic and some bird watching.

Day 3: Point Lookout

Drive to Point Lookout, where the North Gorge Walk offers stunning coastal views. The walk has been upgraded to be more accessible, featuring smooth paths and viewing platforms overlooking the Coral Sea, where you might spot dolphins or humpback whales during migration seasons.

Day 4: Amity Point

Conclude your tour at Amity Point, aiming for a serene afternoon by the water. The area is known for its calm waters and friendly dolphins that occasionally come close to the shore. The jetty and the main beach areas are accessible, providing a relaxing end to your Straddie adventure.

Practical Tips

- Plan your visit during off-peak seasons for a more relaxed experience.

- Check in advance with tour locations for any specific accessibility needs.

- Stradbroke Island Buses offers some accessible transport options, but verify available services for your travel dates.

Enjoy Straddie’s blend of accessible natural beauty and cultural intrigue, ensuring a memorable and comfortable trip for all mobility levels.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Gheebulum Kunungai (Moreton Island)

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Day Tour of Gheebulum Kunungai (Moreton Island)

Morning Arrival: Board the accessible ferry from Brisbane’s Holt Street Wharf, which offers ramps and facilities tailored for wheelchair users. As you cross Moreton Bay, keep an eye out for playful dolphins and majestic migrating whales in winter months.

Tangalooma Wrecks: Arrive on the sandy shores of Moreton Island, where a specially designed, wheelchair-accessible boardwalk leads you to the vantage point for viewing the famous Tangalooma Wrecks. This site is a stunning collection of 15 ships deliberately sunk to create a breakwater and a diver"s paradise. Here, bask in the sun or enjoy bird watching.

Picnic Lunch at The Bulwer Wrecks: Travel northwards using a beach-accessible wheelchair, which can be rented beforehand to ensure availability. Enjoy a pre-arranged picnic basket at The Bulwer Wrecks, another serene spot perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike. These lesser-known wrecks offer a quiet retreat and a fantastic backdrop for a leisurely lunch.

Afternoon at The Desert: Venture to ‘The Desert’ area, accessible via boardwalks and firm paths. Famous for its sand dunes, this part of the island is an excellent spot for photography. Although sand tobogganing is popular here, the panoramic views of the sweeping landscapes are equally thrilling.

Evening Return: Conclude your day with a smooth ride back to the ferry via the accessible paths. Depart from the island with the golden sunset creating a perfect canvas across the sky.

Interesting Fact: Moreton Island is the third largest sand island in the world and almost completely sand with no roads, making accessibility challenging but rewarding with the right equipment.

This tour not only showcases the natural beauty of Moreton Island but does so ensuring inclusivity and comfort for those with mobility challenges.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Brisbane River

Why Visit?

Explore the Scenic Brisbane River: A Wheelchair-Friendly Guide

Embark on a delightful journey along the iconic Brisbane River, perfectly planned for those on wheels. Brisbane’s accessibility-friendly features make it an enjoyable experience for everyone. Here’s how you can soak in the riverfront charms without any hassle.

Morning: South Bank Parklands

Start your day at the vibrant South Bank Parklands. Wheelchair-accessible parking is available at the South Bank Parklands Car Park. From here, smooth pathways lead you amidst lush greenery and stunning river views. Capture the spectacular sight of the Wheel of Brisbane — a fully accessible giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city (wheelchair-accessible gondolas are available).

Midday: Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)

Continue along the river to QAGOMA, which is located within walking distance from South Bank. Both galleries are fully accessible, with lifts and accessible restrooms. QAGOMA not only showcases fascinating exhibits but also offers tactile tours and other accessibility programs.

Lunch: River Quay Green

Enjoy a peaceful lunch at River Quay Green where several eateries offer outdoor seating with captivating river vistas. These areas are accessible, allowing you to dine comfortably with the best views.

Afternoon: CityHopper Ferry Ride

Post-lunch, head to the nearest CityHopper ferry terminal. This free hop-on, hop-off service is wheelchair friendly and provides a scenic route to see Brisbane from the water. Disembark at Eagle Street Pier, where the riverwalk offers unobstructed paths for a leisurely stroll or roll.

Evening: Howard Smith Wharves

Conclude your day at Howard Smith Wharves. Access the area via elevators from the cliff tops and find yourself amidst buzzing bars and eateries, all accommodating wheelchairs. The sunset against the Story Bridge backdrop is not to be missed.

Each of these locations not only promises full accessibility but also an unforgettable riverside experience, ensuring your visit to Brisbane River is both enjoyable and hassle-free.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.