New trails get Victorians walking and rolling together

With breathtaking scenery across a whole range of terrains, Victoria’s great outdoors is a major attraction for people of all ages and abilities.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend escape or some nature therapy this International Day of People with Disability, 27 new accessible trails around Greater Melbourne and regional Victoria are showcased in the new Walking and Rolling Together trails online resource.

The initiative was developed by Victoria Walks in partnership with Scope and helps Victorians get active whilst taking in nature, wildlife and some stunning views and surrounds.

From the ocean views along the Inverloch foreshore to spotting bandicoots at Cranbourne Royal Botanic Gardens, the resource provides a gateway for people with disability to assess a range of all-abilities trails for accessibility and gather information to confidently map their next adventure either as a walker or roller, carer or service provider.

Morgan, a member of the Scope audit tool advisory group said, ‘I think it is very beneficial to have information about the accessibility of walks as it allows everyone to enjoy parks and walks, without having to stress about needing extra help, getting stuck or facing unexpected barriers while on the walk.’

‘Having more information about accessible walks also helps more people feel less anxious about getting outside and enjoying nature,’ Morgan said.

Victoria Walks are one of 15 organisations to recently share in more than $1.5 million from the Access for All Abilities Program 2021–23 to support a range of initiatives that will make a difference to people’s lives.

The grants help develop or expand sport and active recreation initiatives to ensure everyone can reach their full potential, including more competitions as well as leadership, volunteer and employment opportunities.

Whether it’s walking, strength training, gymnastics, tennis for beginners or aspiring Paralympians, the Access For All Abilities Program is supporting organisations to develop initiatives that help people with disability to benefit from participating in sport and recreation.

More than 1 million people in Victoria have a disability and just over 50% participate in sport and recreation 3 times per week.

Initiatives like these provide even more opportunities for people with disability to get active in Victoria’s great outdoors.

For more information about the Walking and Rolling Together trails initiative, visit Victoria Walks