If you or your loved one is living with a disability, the idea of getting involved in community activities can seem out of reach. However, there are plenty of experiences to be had in Bundaberg that are well equipped to accommodate everyone’s needs. And, of course, Community Access Care is always here to help you access them. 

Here are five accessible activities in Bundaberg:

1. Bargara Beach

Bagara Beach is the place to go to soak up that salty air and sunshine! It’s located 15km east of the Bundaberg town centre and is backed by a beachfront road, with great parks, amenities and ample parking. While the sand isn’t accessible the coastal pathways at Bargara are perfect for wheelchairs. Spend your day making your way along Bargara’s coastal pathways which hug the coastline, providing stunning views at every point.

2. Alexandra Park Zoo

Located snugly along the banks of the Burnett River on Quay street lays Alexandra Park. Only 1.4km from the centre of town this park is great for picnics or relaxing in its open spaces as it has large shade trees. This park is also home to Bundaberg’s zoo – Alexandra Park Zoo! With wheelchair accessibility, this zoo is a must for a free day during the weekend. From frogs, lizards and freshwater turtles to wallabies, quoll and dingoes you’re bound to find an animal that’ll catch your eye. While you’re there make sure you keep an eye out for the dingo’s daily stroll through the park! Once you’ve soaked up all the animal gazing you can for one day, take a stroll along the river path and you’ll find a wheelchair-accessible pier that you can fish from. 

Entry to the Zoo is free and opening hours are 8.30am to 4.45pm every day. It’s definitely worth checking out!

3. Botanic Gardens & Hinkler Hall of Aviation

Bundaberg’s Botanic Gardens provide a gorgeous and fun day out with excellent wheelchair access and accessible amenities. Its pathways and boardwalks take you through the wonders of the Japanese garden, Chinese garden, Australian forest, the prehistoric forest and much more. You can also take the time to visit the various museums on-site dedicated to the region’s cultural history. 

The Botanic Gardens’ Sugar Cane Railway is also there to take you on a 2km scenic tour across the Gardens. The train is well equipped to accommodate wheelchairs with ramps to permit wheelchairs and mobility scooters in the carriages. 

Wondering through botanic gardens aren’t quite your thing? Why not head to Hinkler Hall of Aviation instead! One of Bundaberg’s most famous residents was Bert Hinkler, a celebrated aviator who performed several groundbreaking feats including completing the first solo flight from England to Australia and being the first to fly solo across the Southern Atlantic Ocean. 

The Hinkler Hall of Aviation, located in the Botanic Gardens, is one of Bundaberg’s central tourist attractions. Its multi-media displays and exhibitions transport you back to a time when aviation was a daring new frontier. Hinkler’s remarkable career and achievements are wonderfully depicted and fully accessible to everyone. 

4. Going for a dip

Bundaberg has excellent options for the aquatically inclined with the Norville Park swimming pool and the ANZAC Park swimming pool. You can relax with some light refreshments or enjoy a barbecue. The pools themselves are serviced by a disabled access lift chair to provide for all abilities. 

An initiative by CQUniversity, in conjunction with Bundaberg Regional Council and a number of local not-for-profits, is aiming to provide disability access to local beaches in the near future with facilities such as access paths out onto the beach, and specialised equipment including wheelchairs designed for sand and water. The project is targeting Nielsons, Elliott Heads and Moore Park. 

5. Try a glass of Bundaberg’s best

If there’s one thing Bundaberg is known for the world over, it’s our famous Bundaberg Rum and ginger beer. The Bundaberg Rum Museum Experience includes a look back to the history of the distilling business that engages all the senses. You can then tour the distillery itself in the company of a highly knowledgeable guide and discover what makes Bundaberg Rum so special. 

All of this is provided in a disability-friendly way, with ample wheelchair access and assistance wherever needed. 

Safe to say, Bundaberg has plenty to offer to anyone and everyone! Community Access Care is dedicated to helping our Participants engage with community experiences through our social participation and transport services that will provide you access to these experiences safely. Check out our services here.