Sydney nightclub upgraded for accessibility for people with disabilities — ABC News Australia
In Sydney, Australia, the electronic music club Club 77 has completed renovations aimed at improving accessibility for people with disabilities. The venue in the Darlinghurst district, which has operated for nearly three decades, reopened at the end of July after several months of renovations.
Ramp, lift and adapted DJ booth
The club received a grant from the New South Wales government for the renovation. Club 77 owner Dane Gorrell told ABC News Australia that the need for changes became apparent after performances by artists with disabilities: difficulties arose in creating comfortable conditions when organizing such events.
The club consulted an accessibility specialist as well as representatives of the disability and electronic music communities. A ramp and wheelchair lift were installed near the laneway entrance, accessible toilets were added, and part of the bar counter was lowered. A sensory area outside the dance floor was also created.
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The DJ booth can be adjusted to the performer’s height and moved forward and backward to accommodate mobility aids. Haptic vests that vibrate to the rhythm of the music are available at the club for visitors with hearing impairments.
Training for staff
The club is also introducing training programs for staff so that employees can better take into account the needs of visitors with disabilities. Interior designer Kristy Paul noted that the team carried out substantial research during the design process and did not seek to change the character of the venue, but wanted to update it.
DJ Lana Zilla, who describes her disability as dynamic or fluctuating and sometimes uses a walker or cane, welcomed the changes. According to Zilla, being able to visit a venue where the necessary conditions are already in place will make club visits easier for many people. Gorrell urged other venues to consult people with lived experience of disability when planning such upgrades.
