The view from the Supercars accessible platform.
Carpentaria is proud to champion increased accessibility across mainstream events in Darwin. This year, Carpentaria has partnered with both NT Major Events Company (NTMEC) and AFL Northern Territory (AFLNT) on multiple events, supporting increased accessibility measures and collecting event feedback and advice directly from people with disability.
Carpentaria is passionate about removing barriers that prevent or impact someone’s ability to participate in community events. Improved accessibility increases the opportunity for greater participation, benefiting the whole community.
Partnerships improve access to mainstream events
NT Major Events has partnered with Carpentaria on multiple major events in the 2023 calendar, including the Eels vs Broncos NRL match, BASSINTHEGRASS, and the BETR Darwin Triple Crown Supercars at Hidden Valley.
Sensory bags developed with input from Carpentaria’s Allied Health team.
Carpentaria participants and staff provided valuable feedback following each of these events, which will inform ongoing improvements. This feedback detailed each participant’s experience navigating a range of factors including access to entry, food, water, and facilities; and other considerations including appropriate seating, shade, viewpoints, signage, information, map readability, and available assistance. As an additional navigation tool Carpentaria developed sensory bags for this year’s BASSINTHEGRASS and Supercars events, containing simple communication resources, sensory and fidget toys, and a simplified event map.
ALF Northern Territory partnered with Carpentaria to provide a dedicated accessible area at 2 Gold Coast SUNS AFL matches held at TIO Stadium. The private area and accessible platform provided a dedicated space for people with disability to enjoy the game.
Sharing knowledge to increase accessibility
Members of Carpentaria’s Allied Health team have delivered workshops on Accessible Communication to both City of Darwin employees and members of the NT Major Events team. These workshops shared valuable information with the Communications and Marketing teams on the use of accessible symbols and visual
supports, communication friendly fonts and document layouts, and exploring inclusive
communication approaches.
Carpentaria Speech Pathologists Megan and Alex deliver training to City of Darwin employees.
How can you support accessibility as a mainstream business?
Accessibility and inclusivity are important factors to consider when hosting a community event or providing a public service. Equal access benefits the entire community. Carpentaria provides training and workshop options tailored to meet the interests and needs of different teams, and partners with organisations to promote and improve accessibility measures.
To enquire about training for your organisation, or partnership and consultancy options for your next event, contact info@carpentaria.org.au or 08 8920 9400.