PRESS RELEASE: Cocky Guides Celebrates 7 Years with $7 Sensory Day Experiences for Blind and Low-Vision Australians

Australia’s leading not-for-profit tour operator for blind and low-vision travellers, Cocky Guides, is turning seven — and they’re celebrating with seven unique sensory day experiences across Sydney, starting from just $7.

Throughout August, Sydneysiders who are blind or have low vision can explore a series of immersive, multisensory day trips designed to showcase the best of local culture, nature, and community — all with the expert support of Cocky Guides’ trained trip leaders and support guides.

The Seven Experiences Include:

1. Explore local produce at Exeter Village Markets in the Southern Highlands
2. Hike with global visitors on a Blue Mountains Sunset Tour with Autopia Tours
3. Taste culture and cuisine in Chinatown with Local Sauce Tours
4. Cruise Sydney Harbour by ferry to a surprise waterfront dining destination
5. Walk the Inner West Ale Trail and discover Sydney’s indie-beer boom
6. Wander beneath cherry blossoms at Auburn Botanic Gardens
7. Step back in time with the scents & sounds of a steam train on the Zig Zag Railway

“What makes Cocky Guides truly special, apart from the sensory experiences we create, is the power of our advocacy,” says James (Buck) McFarlane, Founder and Leader of Cocky Guides. “We champion inclusive travel by being out there — boots on the ground — working with destinations and businesses across the visitor economy to deliver exceptional experiences for blind and low-vision Australians.”

Since testing his concept of sensory tourism in 2018, Buck has grown Cocky Guides into an award-winning national leader in accessible tourism. Over the past seven years, Cocky Guides has:

– Delivered around 400 tours across 80 destinations
– Facilitated 1,700 individual passenger movements
– Connected with more than 200 tourism businesses to champion accessibility

Partner With Cocky Guides

Cocky Guides is always looking for new tourism businesses, attractions, accommodations, and venues to collaborate with. If you’re part of the visitor economy and want to be involved, start by emailing: [email protected]