Halls Gap and Stawell visitor information centres are offering new technology to enhance tourism experiences for visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing.

The centres have reopened for the first time since March to cater for an expected influx of visitors with COVID-19 regulations easing. 

Grampians Tourism and The Deafness Foundation have partnered to ensure people with hearing difficulties are well catered for, with new assistive hearing equipment available in both centres.

The Deafness Foundation has contributed more than $4500 towards the equipment, which Grampians Tourism chief executive Marc Sleeman said would help deaf or hearing-impaired visitors ‘explore the wonders of the region with unprecedented accessibility and flexibility’.

The technology will be used by tour guides and attractions to help hard of hearing visitors to engage with tours, presentations, demonstrations and multimedia content throughout Grampians National Park and surrounds.

Mr Sleeman said Grampians Tourism was dedicated to offering an inclusive destination for people of all abilities to explore, wander and enjoy freely.

The new equipment is available at Halls Gap and Stawell visitor information centres and regional operators can use the tour guide equipment available at Halls Gap.

The Grampians attracts more than 1,156,000 visitors each year from throughout Australia and the world.

Mr Sleeman said one in six of these visitors was estimated to have some degree of hearing loss, making the new technology a welcome addition.

“Grampians Tourism prides itself on welcoming visitors of all abilities to enjoy the rich natural beauty of the Grampians National Park, award-winning food and wine and strong indigenous heritage,” he said. 

“Not only are we thrilled to be back doing what we do best, which is welcoming visitors to the area, but our partnership with The Deafness Foundation will allow deaf and hard of hearing visitors to engage with our beautiful region with ease.”

People can call Jason at Halls Gap Visitor Information Centre on 1800 065 599 to inquire about using the new equipment.

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