Supported by a $500,000 investment from the NSW Government, the project will deliver new accessible camping and caravanning accommodation at Belmont on the Central Coast.
Delivered in partnership with Lake Macquarie City Council, the upgrades include two accessible cabins, an accessible safari tent and a family safari tent, improved accessible pathways and wheelchair-friendly ramps, a communal outdoor BBQ area, as well as a swimming pool hoist and aquatic wheelchair.
The accessible cabins and safari tent include adjustments like access ramps, automatic doors and blinds, motorised adjustable kitchen benchtops and accessible bathrooms.
Since its opening in late 2023, bookings for the inclusive cabins and safari tent have increased by nearly 22 per cent year-on-year, with over 800 travellers making use of the facilities.
The project aims to foster a stronger sense of belonging for visitors to the park and reinforces the importance of designing tourism experiences that support all abilities and age groups.
Creating accessible tourism experiences gives regional NSW tourism operators an opportunity to target people of all abilities in the growing travel market.
A Tourism Research Australia report forecast NSW to experience annual growth of 3.4 per cent each year from until 2029 in visitor nights for domestic travellers.
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said: “Accessible tourism accommodation mean people have more options for travel in regional NSW, whether for a special occasion, weekend getaway or longer break.
“By expanding who our tourism sector can cater for, we’re helping regional operators tap into a growing market while delivering lasting benefits to local communities.
“These upgrades ensure that families of all abilities can feel welcome and enjoy one of the most beautiful parts of our state.”
Minister for the Hunter and Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley said: “Lake Macquarie is one of our region’s most picturesque and treasured destinations, and we want everyone, regardless of age, ability or circumstance, to have the opportunity to experience and enjoy everything it has to offer.
“The strong increase in bookings since opening clearly shows there is genuine demand for inclusive, accessible spaces. This funding will help our region to meet that demand and make sure people can participate fully in community life.
“Better access for families also strengthens our local economy. More accessible facilities mean more visitors, more tourism and more support for local businesses across the Hunter – something I’m proud to support.”
Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said: “People with disability want to enjoy a great holiday with dignity, and projects like this show that inclusive tourism isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business.
“I’m pleased to see this grant being used by Sails Holiday Park to remove barriers for people with disability and their families; giving them the opportunity to create memorable experiences on the shores of Lake Macquarie for years to come.”
Lake Macquarie City Council Holiday Parks Coordinator Garry Ellem said: “Since introducing the inclusive and accessible accommodation options we have seen a marked increase in visitation to the park and, despite wet conditions in 2024/2025 we received over 28,000 tourist guest nights.
“Tourism provides a solid support for the Lake Macquarie community with the park operations contributing $8.7 million to the local economy last financial year.
“While parks might not fit the typical mindset of a person with disability, the accessible bathrooms and footpaths improve their experience and also allow for an older generation of adventurers to continue to travel and explore the region.”
For more information visit: lakemacholidayparks.com.au
