As part of this year’s Thirlmere Festival of Steam, Wollondilly Shire Council will provide a Sensory Friendly session on Saturday 18 March from 10.30-12 noon for adults, young people and children living with disability.

During the session there will be no PA announcements, no flashing lights or music on rides and there will be a quiet tent with sensory activities. Food and sideshow games will be available to purchase during the session.

Mayor Matt Gould said, “We want to make sure that the Festival of Steam can be accessed and enjoyed by everyone in our community.”

“Last year, Council endorsed the Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 2022-2026 to ensure ongoing support for people living with disability and their carers to be involved fully in community life and increase opportunities for social connection through accessible events. Providing sensory sessions at Council events is just one of the actions that Council is implementing as part of the DIAP.”

In addition to the Sensory Friendly session on Saturday, there will also be a sensory friendly tent during the main festival activities on Sunday 19 March from 9:00am to 4:00pm.

The tent, provided by the team at Mess it Up, will be situated in the Thirlmere Memorial Park and will include access to sensory activities and products, with a quieter space to sit and relax with supportive staff.

Accessible parking on Sunday is available in Mason Street, Thirlmere. The accessible park pass will need to be visible for road closure staff to provide access.

All efforts will be made to ensure noise is kept to a minimum during the Sensory Friendly session on Saturday, however, steam trains may be heard in the distance. Music, lights and noise at the carnival will recommence at midday.

Tickets to the Sensory Friendly Session on Saturday 18 March are essential as there is a limit on how many people can attend. Click on the link to register https://www.thirlmerefestivalofsteam.com.au/about-us/saturday-18-march/

For more information, contact Council on 02 4677 1100.