What’s Happening?
Brisbane’s Story Bridge Adventure Climb (SBAC) is about to launch a world-first: a wheelchair-accessible bridge climb. Located at Howard Smith Wharves, this groundbreaking initiative allows participants with mobility impairments to ascend the iconic Story Bridge using a specially engineered, motorised stair-climber wheelchair.
Why It Matters
This project redefines inclusive adventure, offering a thrill once out of reach for wheelchair users. Queensland’s 2021 Australian of the Year, Dr Dinesh Palipana, who tested the experience, said: “When I was laying in a hospital bed once, not far from the bridge, I remember looking out the window, wondering if I would be outside again. To be now seeing the world from the top of our city’s bridge is like a dream.”
This climb empowers individuals, showing what’s possible when innovation meets accessibility.
Local Impact
The accessible climb positions Brisbane as a trailblazer in inclusive tourism. A YouGov survey commissioned by the Queensland Government found that 3 in 5 locals want Brisbane to be known as a city accessible to all. It also strengthens community pride by showcasing homegrown solutions and collaboration.
This milestone sets a powerful precedent for inclusive tourism nearby place like the Redlands. As Brisbane pioneers accessible adventure, nearby councils—including Redland City—can follow suit by enhancing local tourism and recreational sites to meet similar accessibility standards.
For Redlanders living with disability, the Story Bridge Climb offers a new bucket list experience just an hour away. It also boosts confidence in Queensland’s commitment to creating more inclusive attractions statewide.
Disability advocate and Redlands resident Belinda Harris, who contributed to the climb’s development, exemplifies how local voices are shaping state-first initiatives.
This move may inspire upgrades across Redland’s parks, coastal trails, and community spaces—ensuring people of all abilities can participate fully in local life and leisure.
By the Numbers
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$250,000 – Queensland Government funding through the Accessible Tourism Elevate Fund.
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9 participants max per session, including one wheelchair user and at least three companions.
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2.5 to 3 hours – Duration of each accessible climb experience.
Zoom In
The project was brought to life by a passionate team, combining expertise from tourism, engineering, accessibility, and lived experience. The stair-climber wheelchair was custom-developed to navigate the incline safely and smoothly.
SBAC would like to extend a huge thanks to the following individuals who worked tirelessly to make this innovation a reality:
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John Sharpe – Project driver and tourism visionary
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Nicole Were – Operational Procedures
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Dean Anderson – Engineer
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Guy Pearce – Height Safety Expert
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James Hogan – Tradesman
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Mike Box – USA-based Wheelchair Manufacturer
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Dane Cross – CEO, Sporting Wheelies
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Louise Yates – Disability Advocate and Writer
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Belinda Harris – Accessible Tourism Advocate
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Timothy Lachlan – Occupational Therapist and wheelchair motocross athlete with lived disability
Zoom Out
This accessible climb cements Brisbane’s global leadership in inclusive adventure tourism. Tourism Minister Michael Healy said: “This is a world-first and it’s happening right here in Queensland. We are proud to support innovative experiences that showcase the best of our state.”
The initiative aligns with broader goals for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games, focusing on access and equity.
What to Look For Next?
The Story Bridge accessible climb is expected to open in the coming weeks. Once operational, it could become a benchmark for similar offerings across Australia and internationally.
Keep an eye on @storybridgeadventureclimb for official updates and launch details.
For bookings and more information, visit:
🔗 storybridgeadventureclimb.com.au/accessible-climb
