Ebenezer Church
Overview
Built in 1809 Ebenezer Church is the oldest existing church in Australia and became the first Presbyterian Church in Australia in 1824.
It pioneered education in the colony, beginning a school in 1810. The church is the oldest existing school building, constructed in 1817 as a residence for the teacher and is now open for Devonshire teas and coffees. The first burial was in 1812; the cemetery is one of the most important in Australia with six generations buried in its grounds, including some of the first free settlers in the colony.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour using the pamphlets provided. The pamphlet contains information on the historic precinct of the church, cemetery, churchyard and the historic tree across Coromandel Road.
Visit the Schoolmaster's House to view photographs and memorabilia on the church's interesting history. Casual visitors may enjoy Devonshire teas/coffees (lunch available for large groups only) and purchase locally made jams, crafts, souvenirs and family and church history books.
Groups such as coaches, car and social clubs must make bookings for teas/lunches. A talk on the fascinating history of Ebenezer Church is offered at no extra charge.
Accessibility
A quiet space is available at the venue/ facility
Actively welcomes people with access needs.
Advise tour guides of the access needs of guests at the time of booking (includes pick up and drop off requirements)
Ask all visitors if there are any specific needs to be met
Caters for people who use a wheelchair.
Caters for people with sufficient mobility to climb a few steps but who would benefit from fixtures to aid balance. (This includes people using walking frames and mobility aids)
Employ people with disability
Have a step free main entrance to the building and/or reception area (includes ramps or slopes with a maximum gradient of 1:14, otherwise are too steep for wheelchairs)
Have a wheelchair accessible toilet / shower and change room
Have accessibility information and photos, including of a bathroom, room and/or floor plan on your website (can be emailed on request)
Have an accessible public toilet which is unlocked
Have doorways which are easy to open and have lever handles (doorways 850mm or wider when open and not heavy)
Have grab rails in the bathroom
Have step free access to restaurant, lounge and bar
Have step free outdoor pathways (includes picnic areas, barbecues and shelters)
Offer a range of contact methods for receiving complaints
Offer multiple options for booking - web, email, phone
Provide assistance with booking arrangements (includes providing clear itineraries with written instructions on what to do at various destinations)
Provide seating in common areas including reception area
Train your staff in disability awareness
Use floors/coverings which are slip resistant, firm and smooth
Use non-slip tiles in the bathroom or slip resistant matting
Use Plain English / easy read signage and information (includes menus and emergency information)
Website meets WCAG 2.0 accessibility standards
Welcomes and assists people who have challenges with learning, communication, understanding and behaviour. (includes people with autism, intellectual disability, Down syndrome, acquired brain injury (ABI), dyslexia and dementia)
