Yorke Peninsula Council has continued working towards creating an accessible and inclusive tourism sector with a trial of MT Push and eTrike mobility aids.

Yorke Peninsula Council proudly partnered with Yankallila Council and the Legatus Group to undertake the trial through the Open the Door to Nature Project, funded by the Department of Social Services.

The mobility aids were available at Minlaton Caravan Park, SYP Minlaton Show and Marion Bay Caravan Park during the trial, 30 September to 7 October.

Yorke Peninsula Leisure Options coordinator Tanya Walsh led the project for Yorke Peninsula Council, and said it was well received by the community and visitors to the region.

“Participants in the trial spoke about the ease of using the equipment as well as the ability to be a part of the community,” Tanya said.

“One participant, who trialled the eTrike, was able to access walking trails and paths that are usually too challenging.

“The design of the eTrike puts the user in control of propelling, braking and steering the chair and, as a battery-assisted chair, the user is able to traverse over all types of terrain with very little exertion.”

Yorke Peninsula Council Acting CEO Ben Thompson said the success of the trial reaffirms the importance of making Yorke Peninsula more accessible for all.

“This trial encourages Council to continue seeking partnerships with community groups, local businesses and other stakeholders to explore further opportunities,” Mr Thompson said.

“Council aims to make our facilities widely available on a more ongoing basis for all people with a disability living on or visiting the Yorke Peninsula.”

Minlaton Caravan Park managers Glenn and Amy Lennerth said the park is prioritising inclusive tourism.

“We are committed to guest experience and providing accommodation options for everyone,” they said.

“We are continually working towards accessible and inclusive tourism by improving and upgrading aging infrastructure including a new camp kitchen and the inclusion of accessibility villas.

“Thus, we were keen to be involved and host the MT Push and eTrikes trial as this was a great initiative, and Minlaton has many off-trail walking and riding tracks around town.”

 

Accessible tourism business workshop

Yorke Peninsula Council, in partnership with Tourism Industry Council of South Australia and Yorke Peninsula Tourism, will host an Accessible Tourism Workshop in Port Vincent on Tuesday, 18 October.

Businesses play a pivotal role in making tourism more accessible and inclusive with the accessible tourism market in Australia, which is worth about $8.1 billion, largely untapped.

The workshop will provide an industry-oriented and interactive platform for businesses interested in improving and promoting accessible tourism experiences and services.

Speakers will discuss the value and opportunities for accessible tourism, how to make experiences and premises more inclusive, using the Accessible Tourism Accreditation program and more.

The event is free, and businesses from any region are welcome; however, registration are required.

The Accessible Tourism Workshop will be held in the Port Vincent Institute Hall from 10am to 2pm.

To register visit https://ticsa.com.au/events/events-calendar/#!event/2022/10/18/accessible-tourism-workshop-yorke-peninsula.