In a small but heartfelt gathering at the Cowra Van Park, the community came together to officially unveil the Garry Starr Plaque, a simple yet powerful tribute to a man whose quiet dedication to accessibility has made a lasting impact on our town.
Garry Starr was never one to seek the spotlight, but his work behind the scenes helped bring about real, meaningful change for people living with disability in Cowra.
His commitment to creating an inclusive community is now permanently recognised at a place that perfectly represents what he stood for: the new accessible cabin at Cowra Van Park.
"Garry understood that accessibility isn't an add-on, it's a right," Mayor Paul Smith said.
"His work laid foundations we're still building on today."
"You could always count on Garry to ask the tough questions.
"Especially when it came to inclusion and access.
"He never let the issue slip through the cracks," he said.
The new cabin, purpose-built with accessibility front of mind, is a milestone for the region.
"This cabin is more than just a place to stay, it represents the kind of community we want to be," Mayor Smith said.
"Garry Starr was instrumental in putting accessibility on the agenda, and today’s opening is part of that legacy.
"We’re proud to carry that work forward.
"This cabin ensures that people of all abilities can enjoy what Cowra has to offer, from our natural beauty to our community spirit," he said.
Designed with wide doorways, accessible bathrooms, and step-free entry, it ensures that guests of all abilities can enjoy a comfortable stay, something Garry believed should be a basic right, not a luxury.
It’s a fitting tribute to someone who spent years working to make public spaces in Cowra more welcoming for everyone.
In attendance this morning were Garry’s family, former mayors, council staff and members of the Accessi Committee, many of whom had worked closely with him over the years.
Though the event was small in scale, it was big in meaning.
It reflected the quiet strength of Garry’s legacy: one built not on grand gestures, but on consistent, compassionate advocacy.
As the plaque now stands beside the new cabin, it serves as both a memorial and a reminder.
A reminder that change doesn’t always come with fanfare but through persistence, collaboration and heart.
"We’ve come a long way, but we’re not done," Mayor Smith said.
"Whether it's improving transport links, updating older buildings or ensuring events are inclusive, we’re committed to making Cowra a town where nobody is left behind."
Cowra is better because of Garry Starr and his legacy will continue to guide how we think about accessibility, inclusion and community for years to come.