People with disabilities or mobility restrictions can now access new experiences in the Grampians National Park, thanks to the generous donation of a new motorised TrailRider.
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In late 2015, the local Smith family offered the funding to Parks Victoria for the purchase of the motorised TrailRider.
The purpose of the donation was to allow the TrailRider to be used by the community to better enjoy the Grampians National Park.
Parks Victoria volunteer coordinator Caity O’Reilly said people with disabilities, seniors and others with mobility limitations can now visit walks, views and sites in the Grampians, which are inaccessible by standard wheelchairs.
Ms O’Reilly said as the TrailRider is motorised, it also reduces the load on friends and carers pushing and steering the TrailRider.
“Accessing nature and enjoying the outdoors is something everybody should be able to experience,” she said.
“At times, people with limited mobility may feel like they can’t get out into Victoria’s national parks.
“The TrailRider allows not only people with disabilities, but also seniors and others with mobility limitations who struggle walking long distances or over uneven ground, to be in the environment seeing the amazing native plants and wildlife.”
Ms O'Reilly said the donation from the Smith family for the new TrailRider in the Grampians was very generous.
“The kindness and generosity displayed by the Smith family means visitors from all over Victoria, interstate and overseas will now be able to visit the Grampians and experience all of the beautiful tracks, trails and natural experiences the park has to offer,” Ms O’Reilly said.
“I’m so excited that beautiful walks such as Lakeview Lookout, Fyans Creek Loop, Venus Baths and Clematis Falls are all accessible using our all-terrain wheelchairs.
“Lakeview Lookout is an easy 1.8m circuit with views across Mt Williams and Lake Bellfield. Fyans Creek Loop is 2.5kms, best enjoyed in the early morning or dusk to see birds and native animals.
“The Venus Baths easy grade 2.3kms circuit offers picturesque rock formations and rock pools. Clematis Falls is a medium grade 2.4km return track through forest ending at the foot of delightful cascades.
“The TrailRider is a free service which is available through the Brambuk Cultural Centre in Halls Gap. It has already proven to be an amazing tool to assist people accessing natural areas.”
Make a booking for the TrailRider today by calling Brambuk Cultural Centre on 03 5361 4000.
Ms O’Reilly said the TrailRider was a magnificent asset for the Grampians.
“The Trail Rider really exemplifies our Parks Victoria approach of Healthy Parks Healthy People for all,” she said.
“The Grampians National Park team and broader community thank the Smith family for this wonderful gift, which helps everyone be able to enjoy and appreciate the inspiring Grampians National Park.”
