Brisbane boasts world-first bridge climb
- Brisbane to make history as the first city to host an accessible bridge climb at the Story Bridge.
- Cutting-edge installation made possible through $250,000 in Queensland Government funding.
- The inclusive attraction is expected to be a major visitor drawcard in the lead up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The Crisafulli Government has once again put Brisbane on the world stage with the first accessible bridge climb in the world from Howard Smith Wharves.
Thrill-seekers with accessibility requirements - including wheelchair users - will now be able to scale Brisbane's iconic Story Bridge in a specially designed wheelchair.
The motorised stair climber is of the highest safety standard and has been customised for the Story Bridge using advanced technology.
This advanced wheelchair ensures people with accessibility requirements can expect smooth and safe movement over inclines, ergonomic design for comfort, and integrated safety features.
The world-first has been co-designed by tourism operator John "Sharpey" Sharpe, Mike Box of Box Wheelchairs, and Timothy Lachlan – a professional wheelchair moto-cross rider who has played a key role in testing the system and refining its performance on the Story Bridge.
The Accessible Bridge Climb has been made possible through a $250,000 grant from the Queensland Government's Accessible Tourism Elevate Fund, and positions Brisbane as a world-class city with dynamic tourism offerings ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the Accessible Bridge Climb was a welcome addition to Queensland's tourism offerings.
"The Crisafulli Government is proud to be delivering this world first adventure-based tourism attraction," said Minister Powell.
"Queenslanders will be proud to know we are championing projects like the Story Bridge Accessible Bridge Climb and we want to see more attractions like this ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games."
Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin welcomed the move from the team at Story Bridge Adventure Climb to make the tourism icon even more accessible.
"This is a great local tourism business going from strength to strength, opening up access for even more locals and visitors," said Minister Minnikin.
"Our para-athletes set a wonderful example for all Queenslanders, whether they are racing in the pool or now enjoying a unique Brisbane icon by taking in the view from atop the Story Bridge.
"I look forward to seeing the next generation of para-athletes putting their name forward at the Australian Aged Championships and the Australian Open Championships at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre over the next few weeks."
2021 Queenslander of the Year Dinesh Palipana said the focus on accessible tourism reflects the spirit of a warm and inclusive Queensland.
"When I was laying in a hospital bed once, not far form the bridge, I remember looking at a window, wondering if I will be outside again," Mr Palipana said.
"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 a disability, the courage to do things like this reduces disability, enabling people to participate in a full life.
"The world is shaped by people who don't see it as it is, but see it as it can be.
"I feel lucky to have this opportunity, thanks to people who are shaping the world. We continue to show the pioneering spirit of Queenslanders, highlighting that we can, and we will."
Howard Smith Wharves by Artemus Group CEO Luke Fraser said the accessible climb would position Brisbane and the Story Bridge Adventure Climb as a world leader in accessible tourism, which a YouGov survey has shown is a key priority for Brisbane locals.
"This world-first accessible bridge climb marks an important step for accessibility and adventure tourism in Australia, and Brisbane is leading the way," said Mr 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."
