Tourism experiences of people with a spinal cord injury: a photovoice study of the Gold Coast region
Published 10th November 2025
Purpose
The aim of this participatory photovoice study was to explore the tourism experiences of people with a spinal cord injury (SCI) on the Gold Coast.
Methods
Four co-researchers engaged in personalised three-day tourism itineraries, collected photographs representing their experiences, and shared their insights through individual interviews and a focus group discussion.
Points of Interest
- Researchers wanted to understand the experience of visiting a tourism destination for people with SCI.
- Four people with SCI travelled to the Gold Coast in Queensland Australia and took photographs that illustrated their experiences.
- The discussions about the photographs highlighted that inclusion was important and was evident when they received the same experiences as others; felt valued; shared with family and friends; and had agency and control.
- Accessibility together with these inclusive practices were considered essential for optimal tourism experiences.
Conclusion
Findings highlighted that for people with SCI, tourism is about the experience and feeling included and valued. Inclusion was achieved if the person felt like they were receiving the same experience as others, were a valued traveller, could share the experience with others, and had choice and agency.
Project
Tourism Experiences of People with Spinal Cord Injury
Citation
Greenwood, J., Gustafsson, L., McShane, M., Mackereth, C., Greenfield, N., Fernandes, J., & Walder, K. (2025). Tourism experiences of people with a spinal cord injury: a photovoice study of the Gold Coast region. Disability & Society, 1–22. https://doi.org/10.1080/09687599.2025.2492658
Authors
Professor
Publication Type
Journal Article
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