NEW SOUTH WALES
MAKE A (BEACH) DAY OF IT
Many tourists head straight for the big-name beaches of Bondi and Coogee, but there's a lot more accessible fun to be had on a budget at Manly Beach. Take one of Sydney's accessible ferries across to Manly, and spend the day on the scenic foreshore. If you want to take a dip, head to the Queenscliff Rockpool (widened ramp access from the beach and modified pool stairs) or borrow a beach wheelchair from the Manly Life Saving Club and get out on the sand. Rinse off at the accessible showers, then wheel or wander along the flat paved paths of the beachfront promenade. Kids will have a wonderful time at the North Steyne Major inclusive playground, with a pod swing, carousel, sensory play boards, and a Butterfly see-saw to cater to all abilities.
APPRECIATE SOME ART
Across New South Wales, you have plenty of opportunities for art appreciation, with many museums offering free or discounted admission. The Art Gallery of New South Wales is the shining jewel in the art scene's crown, welcoming over one million visitors each year. Admission is free, and the galleries are open 10am-5pm daily (excluding Christmas Day and Good Friday). The venue is designed for universal access, with barrier-free entrances and navigation throughout. There are both accessible bathrooms and a Changing Places facility available for use. Additional aids and supports are available for people with low vision or colour vision deficiency, people who are d/Deaf or hard of hearing, and people with sensory sensitivities. Everyone gets an opportunity to fully appreciate the art on display.
GO BIG BEFORE YOU GO HOME
No trip around Australia is complete without checking one or two Big Things off your bucket list. There are several you can visit across New South Wales, including: the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour; the Big Merino in Goulburn; the Big Prawn in Ballina; the Big Potato in Robertson; and the Big Kookaburra in Kurri Kurri. Most of these sculptures are free to see, and can be accessed by vehicle or on foot and/or wheel. You can purchase a souvenir or a themed meal at each, or simply snap a photo for your scrapbook for a free memento.