SCEIA recently welcomed members and industry guests to Beyond the Ramp, a thought-provoking session exploring how accessibility and inclusion can shape the future of events on the Sunshine Coast as we look towards Brisbane 2032.

Led by our key note speaker, disability advocate and former Paralympic athlete Paul Nannari. We not only heard lived experiences of accessible (and not so) events but also were provided by Dane Cross (CEO of Sporting Wheelies) and Chris Kerrisk (Co-founder of Cerge) with practical frameworks and tools to drive inclusivity for Sunshine Coast events.

The discussion challenged attendees to think beyond compliance and recognise accessibility as an opportunity to create better events for everyone.

One of the strongest messages from the session was that the Paralympic Games should be delivered in true parallel with the Olympic Games, not as a reduced or secondary experience, but with the same level of planning, investment and visitor experience.

The conversation also highlighted a significant opportunity for Queensland and the Sunshine Coast well before 2032. Athletes, teams and visitors with disability are expected to travel to the region in the lead-up to the Games to test venues, transport networks, accommodation and event logistics. This presents an opportunity for our region to establish itself as a leader in accessible event delivery.

Attendees heard that accessibility begins long before guests arrive at a venue. For many people with a disability, the decision to attend an event depends on having detailed, reliable information available from the outset. Clear guidance around transport, parking, accommodation, venue access, amenities and event logistics helps visitors make informed decisions and, importantly, feel genuinely welcomed.

Technology also plays a critical role.

Research shows that 55% of people with disability rely on AI-powered tools for information, compared with 35% of people without disability.

This reinforces the importance of ensuring websites and digital information are accurate, detailed and structured so they can be easily interpreted by AI platforms. Tools such as Cerge demonstrate how "know before you go" technology can improve the visitor experience—not only for people with accessibility requirements, but for every event attendee.

A recurring theme throughout the session was that accessibility does not automatically create inclusion. Great event design comes from engaging people with lived experience throughout the planning process, ensuring accessibility is embedded from the beginning rather than added as an afterthought.

The business case for accessibility was equally compelling. Visitors with a disability often travel with carers, family members and friends, expanding attendance and visitor spend while creating richer, more inclusive event experiences for entire communities.

As the Sunshine Coast prepares for the opportunities leading into Brisbane 2032, the message was clear: accessibility is not simply an obligation, it is a competitive advantage. By embracing inclusive event design today, our region can position itself as a destination where every visitor feels welcome and every event leaves a lasting legacy.

SCEIA thanks everyone who joined us for Beyond the Ramp and contributed to an inspiring conversation. Together, we can ensure the Sunshine Coast is recognised not only for delivering outstanding events, but for creating experiences that are accessible, inclusive and welcoming for all.