Access All Areas: Petition Power (Part 1)

AdelaideMetro rail car

It may not be a hyperspace bypass, but it is threatening the independence and access to transport for many people in my local community:   an extension of my local railway line (which is a good thing) but, in the process, my local railway station will be permanently removed (a devastating outcome).

International symbol for disability
 in crochet
 

You may remember this was mentioned in a previous blog post "Battling Bureaucracy" (3 Nov. 2017) and today I have news of developments in my fight to maintain access and equity for people in my neighbourhood, especially for people with disabilities for whom the station will be a huge loss and profoundly affect lives.

Battling Bureaucracy

So much to blog about, so little happening on the blog!
 
It’s not for want of trying but my attention has been temporarily diverted to bigger bureaucratic battles.

What Do Trains Have to Do with Crochet?

Many people like to crochet (or knit) while travelling on trains.

Further to an earlier post about trains, I am continuing the theme to reflect on what makes a good pattern for travel and investigate train-themed projects; but before I do that, I have some photos to share of a recent encounter with steam locomotives.

Access All Areas: Training the Transport Department

International Access Symbol
crocheted by Jodie


 

In 2011, I attended a 'Come and Try Accessible Public Transport' day organised by the government's transport department. 

It was a chance to try out the various forms of transport in a safe environment while at the same time provide feedback to the government about the transport system of the day and how to best cater for the needs of people with disabilities.  

New trains and trams had been commissioned and the government was seeking advice from people with disabilities about how to design the internal features of the trains to make them more accessible.

It was very exciting to be able to influence positive change and communicate with decision-makers.