WESTERN AUSTRALIA
BASK ON THE BEACH
The beautiful beaches of Western Australia are less crowded than their East Coast counterparts, with free services and support available for visitors with disabilities.
The beach at Hillary's Boat Harbour has been developed with accessibility in mind. There is permanent beach matting leading to the water at the swimming cove, and an accessible fishing platform at the northern end of the harbour. If you're approaching from the water, or heading out that way, a Universal Floating Pontoon allows for easy boarding and disembarking. Two free beach wheelchairs are available for use. Sorrento Beach, also in Perth's northern suburbs, has a beach wheelchair and all-terrain walker free to use on a first-come-first-serve basis (no bookings required). Park at the convenient accessible parking, and make your way around on the firm sand with gentle gradient, or stick to the barrier-free paths. There is a Changing Places facility at Sorrento, accessible with a MLAK key.
GET BACK TO NATURE
National Parks throughout Western Australia have stepfree paths and viewing decks, allowing you to get close to nature without sacrificing accessibility.
In Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, take in spectacular views on the Cape to Cape Track, with a 3.5km path from Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse to Sugarloaf Rock lookout. The sealed grade 1 track is suitable for visitors using mobility aids, and there is seating en route if you'd like to rest and take it all in. Entry is free.
Take it up a notch with the incredible Valley of the
Giants treetop walk in Walpole-Nornalup National Park. The 600m path is suspended 40m above the forest floor, with incredible unique views from accessible vantage points. There are complimentary wheelchairs available for visitors with limited mobility, as well as designated parking and accessible bathrooms.