Accessibility

Taronga Western Plains Zoo has some excellent accommodations in place to ensure that all their visitors can enjoy the experience.

Parking | There are a number of disabled car parking spaces located at the front entrance, as well as around the Zoo circuit, to assist with access to exhibit viewing areas and facilities.

Access by wheelchair | Most of the Zoo is accessible by wheelchair or by those with walking difficulties. Many of the exhibits are just a short walk from the Zoo circuit and the ground is generally flat. The African Savannah Tower is the only raised platform that is not accessible by wheelchair, however, the African Savannah exhibit can be viewed from ground level.

Hiring a wheelchair | The Zoo provides sturdy, all-terrain manual wheelchairs at no cost to those who require mobility assistance. Identification is required and a disclaimer form must be completed. These wheelchairs must be pushed by a carer/companion and seat belts must be worn. Advanced booking is recommended (02 6881 1400). Wheelchairs may be collected from the Hire Centre on arrival.

Accessible toilets | Wheelchair accessible toilets are located around the Zoo circuit as well as in the Savannah Visitor Plaza.

Carers and companions | The Zoo offers free entry to carers or essential companions of those with disabilities. The Zoo accepts the national Companion Card or a letter from a recognised care/social service organisation.

First Aid | Taronga Western Plains Zoo has a well-equipped First Aid Centre and a large number of trained First Aid officers. Contact the Information Desk or a Zoo employee for assistance in the event of an emergency. The First Aid Centre is located next to the Information Centre.

Assistance dogs | Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo welcomes certified Assistance Dogs on-site. However, due to the nature of the Zoo, there are a number of support measures which are in place to ensure the safety of guests, staff and the safety of wildlife. If you have a Guide Dog or Assistance Animal, please contact the Zoo in advance so that arrangements can be made prior to your visit email twpz@zoo.nsw.gov.au

Interactive and hands-on activities | Large models of animals are found within Taronga Western Plains Zoo including a Black Rhino, Giraffe calf, African Elephants and a Hippo, to name a few. The free access Safari Playground also features a number of models of animals. These can be fully explored by children with vision impairments.

Dubbo Regional Theatre and Convention Centre (DRTCC) is committed to making performances accessible to the widest possible audience.

Level Access Points | Level access to the main foyer is via Dubbo Regional Theatre and Convention Centre's main entrance on Darling Street. To reach the mezzanine level there is a lift in the main foyer which operates between Foyer/Ground level and the Mezzanine level. There is also a level access point to the auditorium through Door 1 which allows patrons to walk directly into the theatre.

Stairs | Patrons who experience difficulties with stairs are encouraged to purchase tickets in the following areas; No stairs - Row A and Row P. These rows include the designated accessible seating. All other rows require a step up or down. Leg room - need more leg room? Rows E and M have more leg room than any other rows!

Accessible Facilities | There are accessible toilets on the Foyer/Ground level.

Hearing Impaired | Approximately 80% of the Theatre auditorium and Theatre Foyer is equipped with an induction hearing loop compatible with T-Switch hearing aids suitable for musicals and concerts which have the sound desk in the auditorium. Please note it is not available in rows A, B or C due to the close proximity to the stage and speakers.

Companion Cards | Dubbo Regional Theatre is affiliated with the Companion Card program. The Companion Card program is a not-for-profit program funded by the NSW Government. A Companion Card is for people with significant and permanent disability that need a carer with them at all times to participate in community-based activities. When the card holder buys a ticket for themselves through the Box Office, their companion with receive a complimentary ticket. This program demonstrates DRTCC's commitment to social inclusion and community and cultural access for people with a disability.

Sensory Sensitive | Please let Box Office staff know if you, or someone you know, would like to attend the Theatre but feel unsure and overwhelmed at the prospect. The DRTCC's has a Social Story that explains in easy-to-understand language what to expect on your visit to the Theatre. Theatre staff are happy to offer a free customised 'familiarity' tour of the foyer, auditorium and amenities when there are no events on and the theatre is quiet. This is an ideal way to become comfortable in the venue before returning to see a show.

Guide Dogs | Service dogs are welcome at Dubbo Regional Theatre. If you require information on bringing your service dog into the Venue, please contact drtcc@dubbo.nsw.gov.au or (02) 6801 4378.

Social story | A social story is a tool that helps individuals better understand the world around them so they can plan for a positive experience – especially if they are going to a place that is unfamiliar to them. Social stories help individuals know what to expect and what to do in unfamiliar situations by walking them through the experience. They are often used by individuals on the autism spectrum, children with sensory needs or those with other requirements. Download a copy of the DRTCC's social story here.

Wheelchair bookings | The Theatre offers seating accommodations to patrons who use wheelchairs or have other requirements, such as an aisle seat or limited stair access. Patrons who use a wheelchair can transfer to a theatre seat or may remain in their chair and request for a seat to be removed. To best meet your seating needs, you are encouraged to book your tickets early. Accessible seating cannot be booked online and are released for general sale one week prior to the show or earlier for sold-out performances. The Theatre is also trialling an assisted lift chair known as ‘Kayla’ located in row P 1. They have introduced wheelchair service for patrons who prefer not to use the external stairs or ramp to the front foyer. Ushers are on hand to meet you at your car out the front of the Theatre and escort you to the Theatre Foyer. Please call the Box Office on (02) 6801 4378 to reserve an accessible seat, to book Kayla or to book the wheelchair service. Alternatively, you may email drtcc@dubbo.nsw.gov.au

The Western Plains Cultural Centre strives to offer options and accommodations for all visitors.

Virtual tour | The WPCC Museum offers a fully accessible experience, and for those unable to visit in person an immersive online virtual tour is available through the extensive collection. Access the virtual tour here.

Access | There are a number of disabled car parking spaces located in the carpark and the facility is fully accessible by wheelchair. Visitors can also use the courtesy wheelchair to explore the exhibitions and museum. Accessible toilets are available.

Audio descriptions | The WPCC plays host to a kaleidoscope of rotating exhibitions and some of these have accessible features built in like audio descriptions. Just get in contact with staff to discuss upcoming exhibitions to see what accommodations are available wpcc@dubbo.nsw.gov.au

Assistance dogs | The Cultural Centre Gallery and Museum welcome certified Assistance Dogs on-site.

Old Dubbo Gaol has facilities in place to allow all visitors to experience and eerie glimpse into it's history.

Access | Old Dubbo Gaol strives to be an accessible attraction for all. The historical site has ramps into the main building entrances to provide easier access, with the addition of plentiful seating through the site.

Sensory friendly | The Gaol team can arrange a sensory friendly experience within the facility, where dim areas are illuminated and soundscapes and talking mannequins are turned off. Just get in touch to make arrangements prior to your visit odg@dubbo.nsw.gov.au

Animals | The Gaol is proud to be pet friendly! This includes Guide Dogs and companion animals. As long as your pet is leashed, friendly and cleaned up after you can bring them with you at no extra charge.

Maps | Interactive map videos are close captioned.

Exciting and accessible play elements are available at a number of local playgrounds to allow visitors with physical needs including those using wheelchairs to join in.

Dubbo Regional Adventure Playground | Dubbo's most exciting playspace has a variety of elements designed for inclusive play and caters to all ages from toddlers to seniors.

• The playground features a wheelchair friendly Liberty Swing.
• Senior's fitness area for gentle exercise.

Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden | Visitors are encouraged to explore at their own pace and enliven their senses in five distinctive garden spaces.

• Sensory Garden - There is a rich range of sensory experiences provided by the clever design and carefully selected plants, as well as playful water features, a striking sculpture of the Barking Gecko and the enticing stepping stones.

Cameron Park | Located in the heart of town this exciting playground caters to a range of ages and abilities.

• Duo swing allows an adult and toddler to sit face-to-face during play ensuring safety and positive interaction.
• Playhouses and tactile elements accessible by ramps so children in wheelchairs can join in.
• Inclusive roundabout with seated, standing and space to securely accommodate wheelchairs.
• All abilities swing seat with a harness.
• Junior adventure zone with timber cubby designed to be accessible to 0-5 year olds.

Victoria Park | Children of all ages will love exploring this exciting playground.

• Junior play space with elements catering to toddlers and preschool children.
• Duo swing allows an adult and toddler to sit face-to-face during play ensuring safety and positive interaction.

The Wellington Caves Visitor Experience offers immersive experiences in the Ancient Landscapes Gallery and Fossil Discovery Lab that are accessible to all visitors.