Each year in July, the inland city of Bathurst transforms into a magical winter wonderland, delighting both locals and visitors alike. This spectacular mid-winter carnival features an amazing outdoor ice rink, a giant Ferris Wheel, and a two-storey carousel – all set against a backdrop of light shows, live music, twilight markets and food stalls.
LiveBetter Accessibility Day is a highlight of the festival program. Held on Thursday, July 11, the day ensures that people living with a disability can enjoy the Bathurst Winter Festival in a fun, safe and supported environment.
Reduced capacity sessions will ensure more room on the ice for people who use wheelchairs, or have other accessibility needs, and ‘quiet sessions’ will offer a low sensory, music-free skating experience. And importantly – carers can skate for free!
Festival goers will also have the opportunity to meet their local LiveBetter team, who will be on hand to provide information, answer questions, or just enjoy a friendly chat over bowls of hearty winter soup – made by our very own Café Connect!
“This is a great opportunity for people with accessibility needs, “ said Kristen Holgate, LiveBetter’s Head of Social and Community Support. “ Having the opportunity to skate in a safe and supported environment means they too can experience the magic of a winter wonderland. It’s a fantastic experience for our customers – it’s something they look forward to every year!”
The 2024 Bathurst Winter Festival will run from Saturday, July 6 to Sunday, July 21, with LiveBetter Accessibility Day being held on Thursday, July 11.
Bookings for the McDonalds Bathurst Ice Rink are essential. To book your ice rink tickets visit https://www.bathurstwinterfestival.com.au/Whats-On/Ice-Skating
For further information on access and inclusion, including festival facilities, entry points and parking visit https://www.bathurstwinterfestival.com.au/Plan-Your-Visit/Festival-Info/Festival-Accessibility
