PRESS RELEASE: Sensory Tourism Australia Launches New Community Group for Blind and Low-Vision Residents in Sydney’s South-West
To mark International White Cane Day, Sensory Tourism Australia has announced the launch of its new White Cane Mingle initiative, in partnership with Moorebank Sports Club.
The White Cane Mingle provides a welcoming and supportive space for people who are blind or have low vision — including dog guide handlers — along with their families, friends, club members, and local supporters to connect, share experiences, and celebrate community at Moorebank Sporties in Hammondville.
The first event will take place on Wednesday, 12 November 2025, at 10:30 am. Guests will have the opportunity to meet others in the community and explore accessible activities and opportunities. The program will feature Jason Stubbs and athletes from Blind Sport & Recreation NSW/ACT, as well as James (Buck) McFarlane and travellers from Cocky Guides, Sensory Tourism Australia’s not-for-profit tour operator partner supporting blind and low-vision travellers. A social lunch will follow.
Low-vision community member Kristy Quigg shared her enthusiasm for the new group:
“Living away from family, I’ve found great support in meeting others who’ve had similar experiences. It’s refreshing and empowering to see that there are still many ways to travel, play sports, and participate in my community — things I once thought were no longer possible due to my progressive eye condition. The opportunity to meet others locally at Moorebank Sporties is really exciting.”
Kellie Hayes, Director and Co-founder of Sensory Tourism Australia, said:
“White Cane Mingle brings the broader community together with blind and low-vision individuals to help break down barriers to participation and build meaningful social networks. Together with Moorebank Sports Club, we saw an opportunity to create a supportive and inclusive community hub for Sydney’s south-west.”
The White Cane Mingle will take place at Moorebank Sports Club, 230 Heathcote Road, Hammondville, six times a year, each on a Wednesday at 10:30 am, with the first on 12 November 2025.
Community organisations and supporters — including groups like Lions International, long-time advocates of the white cane and International White Cane Day — are invited to get involved.
Complimentary transport is available on request from Casula, Chipping Norton, Hammondville, Holsworthy, Moorebank, Pleasure Point, Sandy Point, Voyager Point, Wattle Grove, and Liverpool and Holsworthy train stations.
RSVP: Register online at www.trybooking.com/DGOWI
Sensory Tourism Australia is an Australian enterprise dedicated to making tourism and recreation more inclusive for people who are blind or have low vision. Through partnerships, training, and sensory experiences delivered by its not-for-profit partner Cocky Guides, the organisation helps create accessible travel opportunities, raise community awareness, and build confidence and connection for people with vision impairment across Australia.
