With the support of TAFE, Radio Blue Mountains (RBM) has improved the accessibility of its premises, throwing the door open to the whole community.
“I am delighted that we now have an accessible entrance to our new radio station, so that all our presenters, guests and volunteers can now easily use our facilities,” said Hereward Dundas-Taylor, President of Radio Blue Mountains.
“Making sure everyone can be a part of Radio Blue Mountains is really important to us as a community broadcaster. People with disability, seniors, and anyone with mobility issues can now feel included and more welcome.”
The new glass double sliding doors are at the top of the ramp of Block A at the entrance off Parke Street into the former Katoomba College where Radio Blue Mountains is now calling home. The building also has an accessible toilet and the studio and office are fully available to everyone.
“We now also have a number of presenters from the disability community conducting their own shows, bring a diverse range of voices to the airwaves,” said Mr Dundas-Taylor.
“I present a program, ‘Blast to the Past, Back to the Future’, at Radio Blue Mountains on Wednesdays 2-6pm and the new accessibility features make it so much easier for my mobility scooter to get in and out of the building and the studio,” said Josh Abbott who presents with Anthony Mahr and his guide dog Elsie.
“I am one of the presenters of the Ability Hour on Wednesdays between 10 and 12 which focuses on disability issues and features many people with disability from the local area. Having these new features is a great way to practically demonstrate that Radio Blue Mountains is here for all the community,” said Jenny O’Brien, presenter of the Ability Hour, brought to RBM by Nepean Area Disability Organisation.
One in five Australian have a disability and many older people also find accessibility features improve their experience of the built environment. Parents with prams know that ramps, automatic doors and wider doorways can be invaluable for navigating buildings with small children.
“We pride ourselves here at Radio Blue Mountains in being at the heart of our community. These new accessibility features mean that there are fewer barriers for Blue Mountains residents who want to be a part of our growing radio station,” said Mr Dundas-Taylor.
“The time is right for people to come and join us. New opportunities abound for the Blue Mountains community to get involved, become a member, advertise with the station or host a local program.”