YAMBA GETAWAY - YAEGL COUNTRY - YAMBA, NSW~Accessibility Review
Laid Back Wheelchair Accessible Beach Vibes
A quirky, warm-feeling one-bedroom renovated garage in a great Yamba location, only a 10-minute drive to the main tourist shopping and dining precinct and beaches.
The unit is attached to the main house with direct access to the shared backyard deck area with BBQ. The owners had no one else staying, so we had that to ourselves.
WEBSITE | BOOKING:
Julie, Yamba Getaway’s friendly owner, responded quickly to my query through her listing on accessibleaccommodation.com.
Of course, Accessible Accommodation has photos and very comprehensive property information, so I felt confident from the start.
WHAT WORKED:
Comprehensive description and photos of the property type, its accessibility and location
Quick response from the owner and confirmation of my booking via text
WHAT DIDN’T WORK:
The booking process with Julie worked seamlessly, although my preference is to have an emailed invoice rather than a text confirmation.
ACCESS TO VENUE | PARKING:
Easy off-street uncovered parking right in front of the 1100mm sliding front door.
The backyard ramp to the deck area is 870mm wide with raised timber side and no grab rails.
WHAT’S INSIDE:
The converted space is separated into a large living/kitchenette, bedroom and ensuite bathroom which also has an external door. The front entry is through an 1100 mm wide sliding door accessed by checker plate ramps on either side.
A small kitchenette, remote-controlled recliner chair, a few couches, chairs, cushions and floor rugs throughout the living area and bedroom exude a warm and eclectic welcome.
External rear doors - cavity slider to backyard 820mm, hinged door from bathroom 900mm
Internal bathroom door clearance 820mm
While the bathroom is a bit narrow for manoeuvring a support person and shower commode or wheelchair at 3550mm x 1750mm, the length helps.
WHAT WORKED:
The floor rugs can be rolled up for easier device manoeuvring on the smooth concrete flooring, and the owners are happy to help with this.
The discreet water drain in the shower area does its job beautifully.
The adjustable sliding shower rail worked for assisted showering.
Bed risers installed upon request.
WHAT DIDN’T WORK :
The external cavity sliding door to the backyard is latched only by a hook and could be draughty in winter.
The bathroom sink and the kitchen sink and bench are not accessible from a wheelchair.
The front entry threshold is still a bit jolty and not completely flush.
The backyard, deck and barbecue are shared with any occupants in the main house.
The outside laundry isn't wheelchair accessible.
SUMMARY:
Julie and Jason have done a good job of retrofitting a garage space into a comfortable and nearly inclusive accommodation unit. Yamba Get Away is in a beautiful holiday destination and will suit many people.
IMPORTANT FOOTNOTE:
I look at how accommodation providers present an overall inclusive experience for their guests. While I focus on mobility access, I hope to get ideas from you and others to add observations relating to other disabilities. I take a comprehensive look at everything from initial website experience to staff attitudes. All door measurements are the workable door width, considering the edge of the door or other obstacles intruding into the threshold. Finally, and importantly, I advise you to research to suit your individual needs, and I hope this is a good start.
Happy accessible living and playing!
My reviews are my own and I have not received payment or entered into any contra arrangements with accommodation owners or second-tier providers.