The coastal Western Australia town of Mandurah has won the top award at Australia’s Top Tourism Town Awards 2023.
The Awards are part of an industry-wide push to promote and celebrate regional areas as tourist destinations. Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon Don Farrell, says: “Tourism is the lifeblood of so many communities around the country and the Top Tourism Town Awards are a chance to acknowledge the contribution they have made to our visitor economy,”.
Mandurah is known for its stunning coastline and internationally significant wetlands. It is one of Australia’s most spectacular playgrounds for boating, fishing and wildlife watching. The town’s relaxed holiday atmosphere makes it the perfect family getaway destination.
But is Mandurah accessible? Yes, of course!
In 2020/21, Mandurah also won top honours at the Most Accessible Community in WA (MAWCWA) Awards. The town has partnered with SpinalLife Australia and other advocacy groups to ensure that their public spaces and attractions are accessible for all and inclusive for visitors with disabilities.
For visitors to Mandurah’s renowned beaches, you’ll find accessibility supports and accommodations like beach matting (at Mandora Bay, Orion Street Silver Sands, Town Beach, and Swimmers Beach) in the warm seasons and mobility aids (Hippocampe Beach Wheelchair, Track and Trail Beach Wheelchair, Beach Walker) free to hire.
There are Changing Places facilities available to MLAK keyholders at the Mandurah Visitors Centre, Mandurah Aquatic and Recreation Centre (MARC), and Mandurah Forum Shopping Centre.
The Mandurah Visitor Centre was the first Visitor Centre in Western Australia to join the Hidden Disability Sunflower program, ensuring that visitors with non-visible disabilities are welcomed and supported.
Many visitors are drawn to Mandurah to experience the epic art adventure that is the Giants of Mandurah. Artist Thomas Dambo has exhibited his larger-than-life sculptures, made from recycled and reclaimed materials, all around the world – but Mandurah is their first home in Australia. As the sculptures are displayed on an outdoor trail, levels of physical access can vary and are weather-dependent, but all efforts are made to ensure that everyone can enjoy their experience. Giants of Mandurah also offers audio and written descriptions of each artwork, Visual Stories, and other supports.
Mandurah has many options for accessible accommodation, recreation, and entertainment that suit all ages, abilities, and budgets. It’s great to see that Australia’s Top Tourism Town is so inclusive! Find out more about accessibility in Mandurah on their council website, and more about their award win on the award website.
