IN a major boost to increasing snow sports access to people of all abilities, Disabled Wintersport Australia (DWA) has opened a new hub in the heart of Falls Creek village.

With the assistance and support of Falls Creek Alpine Resort, DWA officially opened its new home in Falls Creek’s Slalom Plaza on June 24.

DWA president, Melinda Brown, said the facility will not only serve as a central meeting point for DWA members and volunteers but also significantly enhance the organisation's visibility within the resort.

“DWA is delighted to be opening our new on-snow home at Falls Creek,” Ms Brown said.

“Accessibility for people with disability is a key barrier to participation in snow sports and this facility will be a significant asset in providing support for our members and their families into the future.

“Our tremendous thanks goes to Falls Creek Alpine Resort for their generosity and assistance in making this happen.”

As a national organisation, Ms Brown said DWA takes responsibility for the development of disability winter sports throughout Australia.

Guided by its mission to promote and foster the participation of individuals with disabilities in winter sport, DWA has been actively engaged in Falls Creek for many years, with DWA members and guides regularly on the slopes, enjoying the winter sports experience.

In October 2022, Falls Creek Alpine Resort received a $180,000 grant from the Victorian Government as part of the “Changing Places” funding round.

This grant will contribute towards the installation of a Changing Places bathroom at Falls Creek - one the 19 planned for public spaces across Victoria.

The State Government said Changing Places bathrooms seek to go beyond the conventional accessibility features, offering height-adjustable, adult-sized changing tables, a ceiling hoist system, grab rails, and ample space to accommodate two or more carers.

The government said these state-of-the-art facilities are purpose-built to empower individuals with high support needs to use bathrooms safely and with dignity.

Situated at the Rocky Valley foreshore within the new lakeside development site, this facility will be the first of its kind in any public space within Australian alpine resorts, according to Falls Creek Alpine Resort.

Its establishment is expected to significantly enhance accessibility opportunities in Falls Creek, benefitting individuals with specific mobility needs.