A pathway will be built to link camping areas to a new, accessible viewing platform, so those with mobility aids or access needs can safely camp and cross paddocks to view the stage.
An amenities block is also being built with an accessible toilet, shower and hydraulic lift for disabled patrons.
Complementing this is a new car parking area to improve wheelchair and ambulant access across the site.
General manager Vicky Lowry said she is thrilled to be able to make the event more inclusive.
“Our plan is to really make our site inclusive and accessible to everyone.
“Even for any locals with accessibility needs that now don’t have to go all the way into town - that will save a lot of people a lot of time.”
She said the changes would benefit a reasonable number of attendees, including wheelchair users or ambulatory people, who might use a cane or other mobility device to navigate the festival site.
“We have young ones that camp in the Ute paddock with wheelchairs,” she said.
Play on the Plains Ltd will use grant funding from the NSW Government to build the infrastructure, including $153,107 from the Regional Tourism Activation Fund, awarded in late February, and $115,672 from the Regional Events Acceleration Fund, announced in September.
“We’ve identified areas to make the event more accessible and inclusive, and the funding from the NSW Government will enable us to adapt the festival site and significantly improve the visitor experience for people with disability,” Ms Lowry said.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole visited Deniliquin on a tour of the regions, fulfilling a promise made after he took over the deputy role in October.
Mr Toole said both grants will inject an economic and cultural stimulus to the region.
“Each year the Deni Ute Muster gets bigger and better and is a major drawcard for people from every corner of Australia, providing a great economic boost, not only for Deniliquin but for numerous surrounding towns and villages,” Mr Toole said.
Some of the funding will also contribute to main stage entertainment, allowing the Ute Muster to put on six performances by popular children’s TV character Bluey.
Bluey’s live shows are an extension of the Australian children’s TV series of the same name - a blue heeler dog popular with many young families.
Ms Lowry said Bluey’s performances will add to the family appeal of the Ute Muster.
“After each stage show, there’ll be the opportunity for some families to do a meet and greet,” Ms Lowry said.
A number of extra reserved camping sites have also been made available.
General admission tickets with free camping are still available, however reserved camping, where patrons can choose their spot in advance, have already sold out.
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