Accessibility at Winter Magic

(a work in progress)

Winter Magic is a public event, a large part of which occurs outdoors on a street that is known for its steepness and uneven terrain. The current committee is working to improve access for people with mobility restrictions and to ensure that those with sensory impairments are catered for.

We work to a social model of disability. We employ artists with a wide range of disabilities and do our utmost to ensure they can access our stages and open spaces. We acknowledge that we have some way to go in this respect. 

Organisers hope that the removal of the parade will reduce crowding in the street and make the space more welcoming for people with mobility restrictions, including those with wheelchairs, as well as for prams and people with small children.

Noise and crowds can mean Winter Magic is overwhelming for some people with auditory sensitivities. Some of our spaces are suitable for people needing a quieter indoor space. 

Only Katoomba Street is closed for the duration of the Winter Magic Festival. Designated mobility parking is available in the usual spaces on Main Road/Bathurst Road (in the old train station carpark), on Gang Gang Street and Parke Street, within the Cultural Centre car park (underneath Coles), and in the Pioneer Place carpark.

Accessible venues

• The Cultural Centre (lifts from Coles Car Park, level access from College Lane)
• Katoomba Library
• Civic Place and the Old Library (lifts from basement, level access from Katoomba Street and Froma Lane)
• Carrington Driveway (open to the street)
• The Carrington Hotel (lift and level access is possible)
• The Palais Royale (ramp and vehicular access from mobility parking spot, wide doors)

Venues with stairs at entrances and other barriers

• The Baroque Room (narrow corridor to entrance, steps, unsuitable for wheelchairs)
• Old City Bank (stairs at front and side entrances but ramp access is possible)
• Aunty Jack's (stairs)
• The Metropole Hotel (stairs)
• The Avalon (stairs)
• Junction 142 (stairs)
• Blackburn's Family Hotel (stairs, but staff are accommodating)

Quieter spaces

• The Old Library in Civic Place (exhibition space)
• The Cultural Centre (kid zone, but fewer crowds)
• Katoomba Library (inside the Cultural Centre)