A shared vision for more inclusive snow sports
DDEG is proud to announce a new three-year partnership with Disabled Wintersport Australia (DWA), reinforcing our commitment to creating inclusive environments for everyone.
The exciting new collaboration enables us to leverage our expertise in accessibility solutions to support DWA’s mission of enriching people’s lives through adaptive snow sports.
“We are incredibly grateful to welcome DDEG on board as a major partner,” says Rick Hastie, CEO, DWA. “Their expertise and commitment to access and inclusion will make a real and lasting difference to our work in the alpine environment. Together, we can continue to break down barriers and create more opportunities for people with disabilities to enjoy the freedom of the Alpine regions.”
How DDEG will help improve ski resort accessibility
The alpine setting presents different accessibility challenges from urban environments. Paul explains the difficulties of designing for extreme weather.
“Winter versus summer conditions can be totally different. A ramp that works well in summer might be buried under metres of snow and ice in winter.” He points out that a 9-metre ramp in summer could become only a 6-metre ramp in winter. However, it can still allow for easy entry and exit in every season with careful planning.
DDEG will offer its skills and services to DWA in several ways:
- Site audits: Identifying compliance gaps and planning future improvements.
- Performance solutions: Delivering tailored strategies to make resorts more accessible.
- Site inspections: Offering on-the-ground insights and recommendations.
- Access design reviews: Ensuring architectural plans meet or exceed compliance standards for access and inclusion.
Many older lodges and buildings in the alpine regions were constructed without accessibility in mind. They are often built into hillsides with numerous stairs and limited access by lift. “Accessibility was usually an afterthought,” Paul explains.
DDEG will focus on upgrading existing infrastructure. We will also ensure that new developments, such as the accessible accommodation planned for Mount Hotham, are designed with inclusivity in mind.
Our approach goes beyond just meeting compliance requirements. It aims to improve the experience for all users, including people with disabilities and an ageing population who want to keep enjoying the mountains.
Inspiration on the slopes
The new partnership with DWA is especially meaningful for Paul Mulholland, DDEG’s Access Director. Paul is a keen skier and has long admired their inspiring work. As a regular on the slopes of Mount Hotham, Paul often sees DWA athletes navigating the mountain.
He was drawn to the synergy with DDEG’s mission to break down barriers and create environments where people of all abilities can participate and thrive.
“I used to see them around, doing the sit ski down the hill, and I said to my team, ‘We have to sponsor them.’ It’s such a natural fit for DDEG and will allow us to make a real difference to people’s lives by improving access in a challenging environment.”
Making the mountains accessible for all
Paul has seen the transformative impact of making snow sports more accessible firsthand. He recently observed a blind skier confidently navigating a blue run. The skier turned out to be World Parasurfing champ Kirk Watson. When Paul’s son skied into Kirk’s path, he was guided by a team communicating via radio to avoid a potential collision. “The person on the radio behind Kirk just said, ‘Stop!’ and he immediately stopped.”
Paul admits, “I wish I skied as well as he does! The skill and determination are amazing to see. It feels great to know we’re helping more people embrace the thrill of snow sports by ensuring the alpine environment is more accessible.”
Looking to enhance accessibility in your next project?
DDEG’s expert Access team specialises in performance-based solutions that go beyond compliance, creating truly inclusive environments.
Contact us today to book a meeting and discuss how our access audits and tailored strategies can benefit your commercial, government or public space.
Can you support DWA’s mission?
Established in 1978, DWA has assisted thousands of individuals with disability to participate in winter sports. You can support them to provide life-changing opportunities through adaptive snowsports by making a tax-deductible donation.