Discounts for people with disability and seniors at Ekka

Published Thursday, 04 August, 2016 at 01:16 PM

Minister for Disability Services, Minister for Seniors and Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland
The Honourable Coralee O'Rourke

People with disability and seniors who hold a Queensland Government Companion Card or Seniors Card will have discounted entry at this year’s Ekka.

Minster for Disability Services and Seniors Coralee O’Rourke said the Palaszczuk Government was committed to supporting people with disability and seniors to be more involved in their community.

“We recognise that cost of living for seniors and those with disability can be a big issue, and we’re always looking at ways to ease that pressure,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“Seniors Card and other concession card holders can take advantage of this year’s discounted entry rate of $24, meaning they can have a great day out without busting the bank.

“Our Companion Card also makes it easier for people with disability to get along to the Ekka by allowing them to bring a companion free of charge.

“The Companion Card caters for people with disability who require a carer, and would not be able to attend the Ekka without being accompanied by their companion.

“It’s wonderful to have the Ekka on board with the Companion Card and the Seniors Card, as it makes a huge difference to the affordability of the show for people with disability and older Queenslanders.”

Mrs O’Rourke said the objective of both the Seniors Card and the Companion Card aligned with the Palaszczuk Government’s Queensland: an age-friendly community strategy.

“An age-friendly community ensures people are free from age or ability related barriers that prevent them from participating in all aspects of community life,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“This strategy has set the platform for a whole of government vision to create a community in which people of all ages and abilities are valued, respected and have every opportunity to be involved.”

The Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services will have a stall at this year’s Ekka Learning Trail and will be available to assist card users and answer questions.

All Gates into Ekka are wheelchair accessible, however, the official drop-off point is through Gate 1 on Gregory Terrace.

There are two dedicated recharge stations for electric wheelchairs, located in the Woolworths Fresh Food Pavilion, and a number of toilets with disability access.

The Ekka starts on Friday 5 August and runs until Sunday 14 August.

Media Contact:          Minister O’Rourke’s office                  3719 7184