Nature-loving wheelchair users now have the opportunity to better explore one of the most popular rainforest walks in South-East Queensland.
Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, now has improved accessibility with a 4WD electric wheelchair available for hire.
Sunshine Coast Council Division 5 Councillor Winston Johnston said the purchase of the $22,000 Observer Aussie Bush wheelchair offered a safe and accessible way for all members of the community to enjoy a rainforest experience at the Reserve.
“Many people enjoy the natural wonders of Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, overlooking the spectacular Glasshouse Mountains,” Cr Johnston said.
“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.”
He said the wheelchair could be booked ahead of a visit to the Reserve.
Sporting Wheelies Chief Operating Officer Dane Cross said the 4WD wheelchair at the 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.
Joan McVilly, a volunteer at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, 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.
Strong Community Portfolio Councillor Taylor Bunnag said the wheelchair was purchased using Council’s Accessibility Fund, which supported $300,000 worth of initiatives this year, following $150,000 in funding allocations last year.
Cr Bunnag said other projects funded this year included Mooloolaba Surf Club accessibility equipment and a new DDA picnic table installed at Glenbrook Downs Park in Nambour.
He said 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.
“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,” he 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.”
To book the 4WD wheelchair, which is available between 10am and 2pm daily, visit the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve website.
Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve fast facts
- 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.
