Caloundra Music Festival will be rolling out the accessibility mat this year, allowing festival goers with disabilities, prams or walkers direct access to the beach.
Due to the inclusion of the new Sand Stage, a temporary amendment will be made to the coastal boardwalk that runs along beautiful Kings Beach, with the boardwalk to be diverted along the beach, behind the stage.
An exciting part of this amendment is the inclusion of accessible temporary beach matting running down to the water’s edge.
CMF festival director Richie Eyles said the temporary beach matting would deliver another unique experience for festival goers.
“Every year we aim to make CMF accessible and inclusive for all music lovers,” Mr Eyles said.
“The beach matting as part of the Sand Stage is not just for people with disabilities – it’s for anyone who wants to get their feet wet while listening to some cool tunes, be they in a wheelchair or using a pram or walker.”
Bruce Stark, the president of 121Care, a local not-for-profit disability support services provider, said the group was excited to see council looking at issues of accessibility around major events.
“This is a great initiative that we are very excited to be involved with as the CMF organisers are very proactive in making the event accessible for all,” Mr Stark said.
“Speaking on behalf of our group and from my own personal experience, one of the biggest challenges for people with disabilities is car parking and general access.
“CMF does a fantastic job of providing both access and easy to find information on how best to enjoy the festival.
“I personally never miss the Festival. I go to a lot of music festivals and this is, by far, the best of all the annual festivals.”
121Care have generously donated some loan wheelchairs which can be taken to the water’s edge.
Volunteers will be on-site between 10am and 4pm to assist with chair and or water transfers if needed.
The stellar line-up set to headline this year’s CMF includes Ronan Keating, Xavier Rudd, Grinspoon, Wolfmother and Baby Animals.
For information on the accessibility options, the full CMF line-up and ticket prices, visit www.caloundramusicfestival.com.
