Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World has long been known for its breathtaking views and immersive visitor experiences. In recent years, it has also become a powerful example of what truly inclusive tourism can look like.

With the support of a $25,000 Accessible Tourism Infrastructure Grant, and a QTIC Letter of Support strengthening their application, the Gardens transformed how visitors of all abilities can explore the site.

The grant was used to purchase two wheelchair-accessible golf buggies, specifically designed to navigate the Gardens’ expansive and steep terrain. Backed by an additional $75,000 investment from the business, the project went beyond a simple upgrade. It became a comprehensive overhaul of accessibility across the property.

Developed in collaboration with Augusta Golf Cars and tested on-site with Spinal Life Australia, the buggies were carefully designed to be safe, practical and fit for purpose in a real tourism setting. These upgrades complemented broader improvements already underway, including accessible toilets, concreted pathways and enhancements to the entire buggy fleet.

For General Manager Verena Olesch, the impact has been lasting and deeply meaningful.

“The buggies are now an integral part of our visitor experience,” she said. “They’ve opened the Gardens to new visitor groups, including people with disability, seniors and multigenerational families.”

The changes have not only expanded the Gardens’ reach but also strengthened confidence in promoting the attraction as genuinely accessible. Staff are now better equipped to deliver safe, inclusive and dignified experiences, while visitors can explore the site without limitations.

Some of the most powerful moments have come from returning guests.

“Several wheelchair users have shared how meaningful it was to be able to explore the Gardens alongside family and friends, rather than being limited to certain areas,” Verena said. “Seeing the excitement and emotional response from guests who could fully participate for the first time has reinforced just how impactful these upgrades have been.”

While the outcomes speak for themselves, securing funding is often a critical step for tourism operators looking to grow and evolve. For Maleny Botanic Gardens, having industry backing made a difference.

“Several wheelchair users have shared how meaningful it was to be able to explore the Gardens alongside family and friends, rather than being limited to certain areas” – Verena Olesch

“Receiving a QTIC Letter of Support was very important,” Verena said. “It strengthened our application and gave us confidence that the project aligned with broader tourism and accessibility priorities.”

This kind of support plays an important role in helping operators bring projects to life, particularly those that deliver long-term benefits for both visitors and communities.

QTIC is proud to support members as they pursue funding opportunities that enhance Queensland’s visitor economy. Initiatives like this demonstrate what is possible when industry, operators and partners work together to invest in better, more inclusive experiences.

For operators considering their next step, Maleny’s story is a clear example of how the right support, combined with a strong vision, can turn ideas into lasting impact.