My Visit To Moonee In Melbourne: Most of my accessibility reviews are typically on coastal or regional holiday-type properties. So I was thrilled to have the rare chance to review* an accessible 2nd-floor apartment in a lovely Melbourne’s inner suburb. The location – 7 km from the CBD and 13 km from Tullamarine (Melbourne) domestic and international airport – is exciting enough. That this apartment is huge with two extra bedrooms on top of the enormous accessible bedroom, has a real kitchen and a view is a super welcome option for many scenarios where people need or want to be close to urban life.

I loved the fact that the accessible zone can be separated from the rest of the apartment, which is ideal if you require carers yet prefer a little privacy. The accessible zone has an ensuite, kitchenette, dining table, a massive TV plus two hi lo electric beds and the option of a hoist!

At the bottom of the page, I have a full video tour for you to see.

THE ACCOMMODATION:

What Worked:

• Lift access from the foyer – large enough for a powerchair and attendant.
• Wide main hallway
• A family apartment but can be closed off from the accessible bedroom en-suite.
• Huge and private accessible zone including the bedroom, ensuite and kitchenette. The accessible zone has heaps of space in the room for hoist transfers, and the kitchenette is a roll-under bench top.
• Plenty of power points and space, particularly in the main accessible room, for charging appliances and equipment.
• King-size bed with 2 x fully height and position adjustable king single beds with optional side rails. This is my dream for me, and sadly rare to find.
• The fourth bedroom is used to store equipment, including a hoist ( BYO sling of course ), a shower chair, and a commode chair.
• The second and Third bedroom has a Queen sized bed and two single beds in each. The main bathroom supports these rooms and the bonus is the third toilet in the large laundry.
• The full kitchen facilities are in the main living area.
• Fully opening sliding doors from the kitchen/living/entertaining area to the outside make for inclusive outdoor-indoor gatherings.
• Choice of heights for under-bench access to a wash basin in the accessible bedroom/ ensuite.
• Choice of heights for roll-under dining in the kitchen/dining area with the choice of dining table and island bench.

What Didn’t Work:

• Ample basement parking is available, however, the access to the foyer is either a set of internal stairs or from the external car parking entrance onto a short strip of cobblestone paving, and then smooth concrete path. There is a video below to show you. Pascoe Vale Road facing the entry to the apartment is generally available for parking. I found it easier to exit out the front of the building and have someone park the car in the basement.

What Might Not Work For Everyone:

• Slightly narrow ensuite, however, with room for a shower commode (as pictured) and one attendant.
• The threshold ramp on the outside of the balcony entrance doesn’t meet flush with the door tracks by about 2cm. So it may be a bit bumpy for a power chair user.

WEBSITE | BOOKING:

From my knowledge and experience Accessible Accommodation is a unique leader in understanding what types of respite, rehab and holiday accommodation people with disabilities need. But more importantly what information is required for prospective guests to feel confident in their choice of accommodation. They are the benchmark and I think their website and booking information works beautifully.

WHAT WORKED:

• Booking availability: This property is listed with Accessible Accommodation. As such both online booking and personalised bookings are available.
• Large photo gallery
• Loads of accessible property information are provided through 50+ accessible FAQs and descriptions.
• There is always someone to talk with, to clarify accessible information
• Surrounding area information.

SUMMARY OF MOONEE IN MELBOURNE:

This gorgeous, modern apartment is the closest I’ve seen to full accessibility for all physical needs while retaining the comfort and beauty that I would expect from an inner-city stay.

I was really delighted in the inclusive two-block roll along Pascoe Vale Rd to the historic and breathtaking Queens Park. Wide smooth paths, exquisitely manicured and roll-able expanses of lawn, ducks, swans, playgrounds shaded by grand old trees, a café and an Exeloo confirmed to me that Moonee Ponds is a great place to visit.

Click HERE for the listing to view over 50 frequently asked questions and to book

IMPORTANT FOOTNOTE:

I look at the ways in which businesses present an overall inclusive experience for their patrons. While I focus on mobility access, I hope to get ideas from you and others to add observations relating to other disabilities. I take a comprehensive look at everything from initial website experience to staff attitudes. Finally and importantly, I advise you to research to suit your individual needs but I hope this is a good start.

*Although I was paid by Accessible Accommodation for this opportunity I have been honest in my comments and feedback. Please reach out with any questions HERE. Happy accessible living and playing!

Leanne Watson

LEANNE’S WHEEL LIFE