Walk, talk and experience Hobart through a different lens

Published on 15 October 2026

The City of Hobart is partnering with Blind Citizens Australia Tasmania Branch to celebrate International White Cane Day with a unique event designed to spark conversation, build understanding and help create a more accessible city for everyone.

To be held today, community members are invited to experience Hobart from the perspective of people who are blind or have low vision through a guided accessibility walk in the city centre, followed by a panel discussion featuring people with lived experience.

The event reinforces our commitment to an accessible and inclusive Hobart where everyone can participate fully in community life.

Participants will begin with a guided walk through Hobart's CBD, gaining insight into the challenges and opportunities people who are blind or have low vision encounter when navigating the city.

The event will then move to Hobart Town Hall, where a panel hosted by the Tasmanian branch of Blind Citizens Australia will explore accessibility, inclusion and what makes communities truly welcoming and accessible.

The City’s Access Advisory Committee, made up of people with lived experience of disability and other community representatives, has played a key role in advancing accessibility initiatives across Hobart, including the Access Map, Access Guides and Respect the Space campaign.

International White Cane Day is observed around the world to recognise the achievements and independence of people who are blind or have low vision, while raising awareness of the white cane as a symbol of mobility and empowerment.

Quotes to be attributed to Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds:

“The City is excited to be partnering with the Tasmanian branch of Blind Citizens Australia to celebrate International White Cane Day and make a commitment to keep working towards a city where everyone can move, participate and feel welcome.

“Creating an accessible city is everyone’s responsibility. Small things can make a big difference. Today’s event is providing an opportunity to listen, learn and see our city differently as we hear from a panel of people with lived experience.

“People with disability should be visible in our communities, workplaces and importantly, in leadership and decision-making roles. Real change happens when people with lived experience are at the table helping shape the decisions that affect their lives.

“Let’s all work together to make sure that everyone has a voice in shaping the city they call home.”

Quotes to be attributed to Blind Citizens Australia Tasmania Branch President Duncan Meerding:

“White canes for many are not only a tool, but a symbol of empowerment and independence. Stating this, the cane is only one part of making sure we lessen disabling barriers to the blind and vision impaired in society more broadly.

“My white cane provides the independence and confidence that allows me to engage with people, places and opportunities as a designer, maker and business owner.

“This conversation is going to be about lived experience, but also about practical ways councils, governments, businesses and various other decision makers can take actions to help have positive impacts towards the blind and vision impaired societal participation.”

Quotes to be attributed to BCA member and forum panellist Emma Bennison:

“My white cane gives me the freedom to navigate the world on my own terms, whether I’m heading to work, meeting friends or enjoying a walk around Hobart. It supports my independence and my ability to lead, advocate and contribute as a chief executive.

“Accessible streets and public spaces are essential to making that possible. This White Cane Day, we’re walking to celebrate our freedom and highlight the barriers we still face.

“Accessibility needs to be built in from the beginning, with blind people involved in genuine co-design and leadership. We bring expertise that should shape decisions about our city, so we can all move with confidence and participate fully in community life.”