THE Sunshine Coast hinterland is the next region to be part of an award-winning mobility maps project that enables people of all abilities to explore the area with ease.
The initiative began a year ago as a trial, where trained “pilots” backed by advanced technology tracked busy routes, providing accessibility mapping for those living with disabilities, using wheelchairs, or mobility aids to plan their routes.
The project has since developed into an accessible tourism opportunity, and the council is expanding its scope during the 2023 Year of Accessible Tourism in Queensland.
The first mobility maps focused on the popular area between Maroochydore and Mooloolaba, and the council has developed more maps for the health precinct at Birtinya.
This month, the Sunshine Coast’s major sports precinct in Kawana and Maleny areas will benefit from the expansion, providing travelers and visitors to the region with mobility issues the ability to identify accessible routes suitable for them. The maps identify toilets, parking bays, bus stops, kerb ramps, wayfinding signs, street crossings, surface types, and conditions. The project aims to help the community with their accessibility needs by providing clear solutions for people with disabilities to plan and map their routes. It supports everyone, from mums and dads with prams and toddlers to the elderly and people using wheelchairs and mobility aids.
According to Briometrix , the Sunshine Coast Council’s mapping data covers more areas than any other council area or metropolitan city in Australia. This is an incredible achievement that shows the council’s commitment to equity and inclusion, Council Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said.
sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/Living-and-Community/Community-Support/
Main image: Mayor Mark Jamieson, Kay MacLean, Jason Jones and Councillor David Law at Venue 114
