The new accessible climb at Story Bridge Adventure Climb features a motorised stairclimbing wheelchair and technology designed especially for the bridge.
The new accessible climb was designed by John Sharpe, who founded the Story Bridge climb, and Mike Box from Box Wheelchairs. The pair also enlisted the help of professional wheelchair moto-cross rider Timothy Lachlan to test the climb and refine its performance.
The new accessible climb was funded by a $250,000 grant from the Queensland state government through an accessible tourism fund.
“This incredible initiative to make a wheelchair-accessible bridge climb experience reinforces why Brisbane is capturing global attention as one of the best places in the world to visit,” said Brisbane City Council’s chair of community and the arts, councillor Vicki Howard.
“It’s a defining moment that will set the gold standard for future tourism attractions not just here but around the world.
“I am so proud Brisbane is leading the way with accessible tourism offering as we cement our reputation as an accessible and inclusive city.”
Queensland’s 2021 Australian of the Year Dr Dinesh Palipana OAM, also a business events ambassador for Experience Gold Coast was one of those who participated in the accessible climb on its launch day this week.
“When I was laying in a hospital bed once, not far from the bridge, I remember looking at a window, wondering if I will be outside again,” said Palipana, who became a quadriplegic after a car accident.
“To be now seeing the world from the top of our city’s bridge is like a dream.
“With about one in six people on this planet experiencing disability, the courage to do things like this reduces disability, enabling people to participate in a full life.”
While John Sharpe founded the Story Bridge Adventure Climb, it recently passed into the ownership of the group behind riverside precinct Howard Smith Wharves, Artemus Group. Its new owners have moved the start of the climb to Howard Smith Wharves, making the activity even more attractive for corporate groups who can combine it with dining or event experiences within the precinct.
“This world-first accessible bridge climb marks an important step for accessibility and adventure tourism in Australia, and Brisbane is leading the way,” said CEO of Howard Smith Wharves by Artemus Group, Luke Fraser.
“We are proud to deliver this initiative and be a leader in delivering memorable tourism experiences for all.
“Research conducted by YouGov found three in five people want Brisbane to be known as accessible. In the lead up to 2032 we’re committed to creating experiences for all to enjoy the very best that Brisbane has to offer.”
