The Ferris Wheel at Stokes Hill Wharf is back for another Dry season with the addition of a new wheelchair-accessible gondola.
More than 50,000 locals and tourists were able to experience this fantastic attraction last season and the new custom gondola means even more people will be able to enjoy the ride and view this year.
Ensuring that people with disability are included and can engage, participate and contribute to community life is a key outcome of the Northern Territory’s Disability Strategy.
Sports clubs, tourism facilities, arts and cultural institutions, entertainment venues and recreation organisations all have a role to play to change the way they operate to ensure anyone can participate.
The Darwin Waterfront Corporation is a leader in this space and is thrilled at the inclusion of the accessible gondola in Skyline Attractions’ third year at the wharf.
The Corporation’s commitment to making its venue and facilities more accessible is evident with the mobi-mat at the recreation lagoon and the wave lagoon also being wheelchair accessible.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Disabilities, Ngaree Ah Kit:
“Ensuring accessibility for people with disability at events, venues and attractions is a high priority for the Territory Labor Government for the benefit of both locals and visitors to the Northern Territory.
“Darwin Waterfront Corporation sets a high standard in this space and it’s really great to see the inclusion of another accessible attraction this Dry season.
“We continue to work with all sectors and the business and events community to provide these important opportunities for people with disability to be included at events, venues and attractions.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Port Darwin, Paul Kirby:
“Having events and experiences that bring more people into the City is great for local businesses – and making them accessible to all people is just so important.
“The Ferris Wheel created an amazing vibe last year when more than 50,000 people enjoyed the ride, and this is sure to continue now that this attraction is accessible to more locals and tourists.”
Quotes attributable to Darwin Waterfront Corporation Chair, Richard Fejo:
“The Darwin Waterfront is committed to ensuring all Territorians can enjoy our facilities and we are continually working to improve accessibility within the precinct.
“We are excited to be able to work with Skyline Attractions to incorporate a wheelchair-accessible gondola this year and we are looking forward to welcoming everyone to Stokes Hill Wharf.”
Quotes attributable to Disability Advocate, Robyne Burridge:
“Congratulations and thank you to the Darwin Waterfront Corporation for taking this exciting initiative.
“I am confident we are seeing the start of the ‘domino effect’ with accessible tourism for all starting to emerge from the darkness.
“Continue to watch this space!”
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Issued by the Northern Territory Government on 19 May 2023
