Yarrangobilly Thermal Pool in NSW’s Kosciuszko National Park has been upgraded with a new access ramp into the pool making it easier for visitors with mobility issues to enjoy this spectacular area.
Improved Accessibility to the Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool
Access to the Yarrangobilly Thermal Pool area has always been difficult, as a steep track is the main way to reach the pool.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service has explained that although the new upgrades don’t make the general area more accessible, they make the pool and other facilities easier to use for those who may have trouble getting in and out of the water via the step ladder.
‘Unfortunately, geography and geology make it hard for the site to be fully independently accessible for all users. But these upgrades are designed to make the stunning thermal pools more accessible to more people’, NSW NPWS said in a Facebook comment.
The new ramp also features seating for people to enjoy
In addition to the new access ramp, the new facilities include in-pool seating, shelters, and more accessible walkways to the new toilet block and change rooms. Existing shelters around the pool have also been upgraded.
The upgrades to NSW’s Yarrangobilly Pool include new toilets and change rooms
The public response has been mixed, with many comments on Facebook praising the upgrades, ‘This will make such a huge difference to those of us with mobility challenges. Thank you!’, one commenter said.
‘Thanks NSW NPWS for making these upgrades. Optimising a difficult spot is thoughtful and appreciated’, said another.
However, some people questioned NPWS’s decision to make the pool accessible but not the general area. ‘Why bother when people with mobility issues cannot get down to the pool area? Such a waste of public funds!’, one person asked.
Some commenters highlighted that NPWS staff are happy to drive people to and from the pool upon request. ‘From what I observed when I was there in January, the park rangers/staff were quite frequently driving people too and fro who looked like they needed the assistance.’
The pool now has multiple ways to access it, either via the step ladder or ramp
About the Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool
Located in the Yarrangobilly area of Kosciuszko National Park, the thermal pools stay heated at a cozy 27ºC all year round. The main pool cascades into a children’s wading pool with a surrounding picnic area to enjoy. The pools are reached via two walkways, the short but steep Thermal Pool Walk or the Yarrangobilly River Walk Loop, which is a bit longer.
In summer it’s a beautiful picnic area and in the winter you may even be able to enjoy a swim in the pools while snow blankets the ground.
For more information visit the NSW National Parks and Wildlife website or call the Yarrangobilly Caves Visitor Centre on 02 6454 9597.
Images by E Sheargold/DCCEEW
