Can’t get you outta my way: Tension as Brisbane fans in wheelchairs struggle to see Kylie

He said venues should not only consider whether their spaces were accessible and functional, but also if their staff had adequate training in how to respond when accessibility issues rise.

A Brisbane Entertainment Centre spokesperson responded that more than 450 guests with accessibility needs were assisted over the two Kylie Minogue concerts this week.

They said the venue had multiple dedicated front-of-house staff primarily to assist guests on arrival and throughout the event.

They said that previous feedback from wheelchair advocates requested an inclusive experience on the Main Arena floor, and not to be segregated.

“As a result, seating on both the reserved and the general admission floor was introduced and is included as part of every event build,” they said.

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The BEC said that it had received positive feedback from wheelchair users in the past.

Cross said that the challenge facing venues was to avoid segregation, or wheelchair users being separated from their friends, while providing adequate sight lines.

Mobility device user and frequent Boondall patron Tim McCallum agreed.

“I would never complain about someone standing up in front of me dancing at a concert. You’re going to a Kylie Minogue concert, Kylie is renowned for having songs that make you want to dance.

“Instead, have an accessible platform, so people with disabilities can see over those that stand. I’ve seen that at many venues around the country.”

A spokesperson for Frontier Touring said that affected fans on Wednesday night were offered free tickets to the following night’s performance in a different seating location.

The 13,500-capacity Brisbane Entertainment Centre opened in 1986.

Its location and susceptibility to late-night traffic jams have made it controversial with visitors. Nevertheless it is slated to host Olympic events in 2032.

“This is old infrastructure, and back then when these places were built, access and inclusion wasn’t front of mind,” Cross said.

“That’s why it’s important now that whoever’s designing new and retrofitted facilities that universal design is applied and that access and inclusion is at the forefront of thinking.”

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