Looking to try a new adventure? Or find a new adrenaline-fuelled hobby? We’ve broken down some of the best accessible experiences in Australia.
So, whether you’re after a hobby for yourself or looking for a gift for a loved one, there’s an adventure out there!
Skydiving
Experience the ultimate thrill of jumping out of a plane at 15,000 feet with only a parachute slowing you down. Not for the faint of heart, the adrenaline-inducing experience is disability-friendly at the following drop locations through Skydive Australia:
- Wollongong
- Byron Bay
- Newcastle
- Airlie Beach
- Cairns
- Mission Beach
- Melbourne
- York
For more information and to book, visit the website or call 1300 821 628.
iFLY – indoor skydiving
Want to experience the thrill of skydiving without the heights? We’ve got the answer for you. Feel the wind rushing through your hair and the sensation of weightlessness as you soar through a vertical wind tunnel. Available at a range of locations across Australia, iFLY invites people of all abilities to spread their wings. Bookings can be made online or via 1300 435 928.
Adventure Water Sports Queensland
Blue skies, sunshine, the crashing of waves and water sports. This is what Queensland is known for. So, get out and experience the best of what the Sunshine State has on offer with Adventure Watersports Queensland (AWSQ). AWSQ provide water and land-based experiences for people with physical and intellectual disabilities. Available on Brisbane and the Gold Coast, activities include:
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Stand-up paddle boarding
- Boogie boarding
- Surfing
- Swimming
- Snorkelling
Sailing
Disability-friendly sailing organisation Sailability, offers a fun and safe environment for those who want to dip their toe into sailing or other on-water activities. Experience the power of wind as you’re propelled through the water or take a more subdued approach and feel it gently nudge you in the right direction as you enjoy a peaceful day out on the water. With Sailability clubs across Australia, this could be the perfect adventure for you or a loved one.
Whale watching
From June to November each year, South East Queensland's crystal-clear waters become home to some of the world’s most magnificent creatures as humpback whales migrate to and from Antarctica. If you ever wanted to spend your day searching for one of the largest animals on earth and see the frolicking giants up close, this is your chance. For bookings and accessibility information, visit the website.
Blue Mountains tour
With this accessible tour of the Blue Mountains near Sydney, you can immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of eucalyptus forests, waterfalls, villages, gardens and more. Designed for wheelchair users or those who prefer minimal walking, the tour also includes a visit to a wildlife park to get up close and personal with Australia’s native animals. Visit the website for more information and to book.
Horse riding centres
Ever wanted to ride a horse? Now’s your chance with the Riding for the Disabled Association. See nature from horse-back as make your through Australia’s countryside or experience the intuitive nature of horses through the Hippotherapy program. Available at locations throughout Australia, you can learn everything from:
- Horse riding
- Equestrian skills
- Mounted games
- Dressage
- Hippotherapy (physio and occupational therapy)
- Unmounted activities
- Horsemanship
Theme parks
Did you know that most theme parks offer accessible rides and attractions? You can experience thrilling rides, meet some of your favourite movie characters, get in your togs for water slides and even swim with dolphins. For more information on accessibility options, please visit their websites:
CPL can support you to get out and about in the community - whatever your age, whatever the situation and whenever you need us. If you need support to attend any of the activities listed above, CPL can assist you. For more information and to book, visit our website.
