NYE on the Cahill Expressway 2024 FAQs - Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program
What is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower?
Some disabilities, conditions or chronic illnesses are not immediately obvious to others. For some people, this can make it hard to understand and believe that someone with a “non-visible” condition genuinely needs support. Some people question whether you have a disability because you don’t look ‘like you have a disability".
That is why the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower was created - to encourage inclusivity, acceptance and understanding.
It is a simple tool to share that you have a hidden disability voluntarily. Simply by wearing the Sunflower, you’re just letting everyone know that you might need extra help, understanding, or just more time.
Who runs the Sunflower program?
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower originated in the UK and in Australia is managed by Bayley House, a non-profit organisation based in Melbourne. They are the sole distributors of the program in the country, ensuring that the initiative is accessible and effectively implemented across various regions.
What does Sunflower friendly event mean?
A "Sunflower-friendly event" refers to an event that is inclusive and accommodating for individuals with hidden disabilities, signified by the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower symbol. These events are designed to be accessible and supportive, ensuring that people with non-visible conditions such as autism, chronic pain, mental health issues, or learning difficulties feel comfortable and understood.
At a Sunflower-friendly event, organisers and staff are trained to recognise the Sunflower symbol. The Sunflower may be worn by attendees at the NYE on the Cahill Expressway event to discreetly indicate they have a hidden disability and may need extra assistance, understanding, or time.
Where can I get a lanyard/wristband?
Anyone with a Hidden Disability can pick up a Sunflower lanyard at your local train station – click here to view locations.
What if I can’t get to a station?
You can order a lanyard online for free delivery at transportnsw.info/sunflower, please allow between 7 and 14 days for dispatch and delivery.
How much does it cost?
Lanyards are free of charge for persons with a hidden disability, limited to one per customer.
Do staff know about the Sunflower?
Staff working on the NYE on the Cahill Expressway event have completed an awareness module to educate them about Hidden Disabilities and how best to respond to someone wearing the Sunflower. Staff that have completed the awareness module can be recognised wearing the White Sunflower supporter lanyards/badges.
How is a Sunflower support person identified on NYE on the Cahill Expressway event?
A trained Sunflower support person is identified by wearing a white Sunflower supporter lanyard.
How can I help someone who is wearing the Sunflower?
If you see someone wearing a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard or wristband, offer them help, assistance or simply give them more time.
- Ask if you can help
- Be kind
- Listen closely
- Have patience
- Do not judge
- Show respect
Is there a map of the accessibility/disability viewing area?
You will receive a map and details about the event on your tickets.
Will there be staff to assist people registered in the accessibility/disability viewing area on the night?
For additional assistance on the evening please defer to a staff member wearing a pink vest.
What are the transport arrangements for people with a disability or those with limited mobility at the event?
If you have been successful in securing tickets for the accessibility/disability viewing area, you will be contacted directly by email to confirm your ticket and transport arrangements. Please check your inbox and spam folder regularly.
Getting to the event
If you have been successful in securing tickets for the accessibility/disability viewing area, you will be contacted directly by email to confirm your ticket and transport arrangements. Please check your inbox and spam folder regularly.
What are the closest public transport hubs to the gate entry?
Martin Place station is about 1 kilometre away from the site on a flat surface. St James station is 1.5 kilometres away from the site on a flat, paved surface. There is no access via Circular Quay station due to pedestrian street closures.
What are the site conditions?
The Cahill Expressway is accessible for prams and wheelchairs. As a working roadway, some areas of the expressway have uneven and rough surfaces. If using a wheelchair, please use caution when traversing these areas. There is a steep incline from the Macquarie Street entry to the viewing area. Wheelchair accessible toilets are available adjacent to the viewing area. Security and first aid will be on site. BYO food is permitted, and food / soft drinks are available for purchase.
What is the site access?
Patrons making their own way to the event will access via the event entry at the corner of Conservatorium Road and Macquarie Street. The viewing area is 700 metres from the entry point including a steep incline of approximately 220 metres. If you have been successful in securing tickets in the accessibility/disability viewing area, you will be contacted directly by email to confirm your ticket and transport arrangements. Please check your inbox and spam folder regularly.
Are there recharge areas for electric wheelchairs and scooters on the deck?
No.
Are there any captioning services while viewing from the deck?
There will be a digital screen in the accessibility/disability viewing area with key messaging captioned on screen.
Will I be required to wear a wristband?
We require all accessibility guests to wear wristbands for entry to the accessible viewing area.
Are assistance animals allowed into the event area?
Only authorised assistance animals will be permitted within the event. Please register your assistance animal prior to attendance by emailing enquiries@nyecahillexpressway.com.