Inclusive Community Champions named at State Reception

A Bundaberg tourism attraction, a Cairns business, a Brisbane tourism venue and a Sunshine Coast nature reserve were recognised last night for their commitment to inclusive communities at a State Reception for Canadian icon Rick Hansen.

Mr Hansen, who champions equitable access around the world, is currently visiting Australia to commemorate the 25th anniversary of his Man in Motion Tour that saw him wheel 40,000km through 34 countries in 1985 and raise more than $26 million for spinal cord injury research.

Queensland Premier Anna Bligh presented the following businesses in four regions with Inclusive Community Champion Awards:

• Portside Wharf and Cruise Terminal – Southern Queensland

• Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve – South Coast Queensland

• Hinkler Hall of Aviation and Café – Central Queensland

• Decision Easy – North Queensland

From the four regional winners, Portside Wharf and Cruise Terminal was also named the major statewide Queensland winner of the Inclusive Community Champion awards.

“I am delighted to acknowledge a business such as Portside Wharf and Cruise Terminal that is leading the way when it comes to equitable access in the community,” the Premier said.

“These awards recognise the many Queensland businesses and services who are doing the right thing and ensuring that equity and accessibility is part of their everyday business and activities.”