When you’re heading to an event, like a concert or show, many people think about where they might park or what they’re going to eat beforehand. For people with disability, the main thing they think about – before even booking tickets – is whether or not the venue is accessible.
Having accessible venues may seem like a no-brainer, but unfortunately, it’s not always the case. Which is why CPL teamed up with QMusic this year to search for the most accessible venue.
The Accessible Venue of the Year Award recognises the efforts of venues creating inclusive and accessible event spaces. The Award recognises the importance of making live music events accessible to everyone and celebrating the incredible work of many venues throughout Queensland that are taking fundamental steps to ensure accessibility.
After much searching – and a vote! – the winning venue was found! Logan City Council’s new arts and culture precinct, Kingston Butter Factory, took home the honours, despite a strong showing from fellow finalist The Fortitude Music Hall. Both finalists made significant efforts towards accessibility and inclusivity for people with disability.
CPL’s Chief Experience Officer, Julie Byth hoped the award would be a catalyst for more venues to make improvements in access and inclusion.
“Both QMusic and CPL believe live music should be for everyone, so we are thrilled to be able to join together to create an Award that recognises the efforts of venues at the forefront of access and inclusion," she said.
Kingston Butter Factory is a newly transformed cultural precinct that offers a year-round program of art, culture and entertainment. Accessibility has been a focus in the development of the precinct, which is part of Logan City Council’s Logan Arts platform.
Madeleine Little, Undercover Artist Festival director, was on the judging panel for the awards. Madeleine is a disabled performer, theatre maker and access consultant. She is the 2022 recipient of the Australia Council’s Arts and Disability Early Career Artist Awards.
“Art should be for everyone, and this Award is an opportunity to recognise venues who truly embrace that idea and welcome everyone to enjoy amazing live music,” said Madeleine Little.
Kingston Butter Factory has been developed to support as many accessibility needs as possible, with accessible parking, a hush room, and a Changing Places facility. The Changing Places facility includes larger-than-standard accessible toilets, an adult-sized changing table, ceiling hoist, a peninsular toilet, privacy screen and additional circulation space. It is designed to meet the various needs of people with complex disabilities.
Watch the video below or read more about the physical accessibility and wheelchair access right from the train station to the theatre.
Find out more about this venue's accessibility features:
