AUSTRALIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 1 CONTENTS

Australian Paralympic Committee 2 President’s Report 3 Message from the Australian Sports Commission 4 Honour Roll 5 Chief Executive Officer’s Report 6 Finance and Fundraising 10 Torino 2006 Winter Paralympic Games 14 Sport Reports 16 Archery 16 Athletics 17 Wheelchair Basketball 18 Cycling 19 Equestrian 20 Football 21 Judo 22 Powerlifting 23 Rowing 24 Wheelchair Rugby 25 Sailing 26 Shooting 27 Swimming 28 Table Tennis 29 Tennis 30 Winter Sport 31 Acronyms 32 Sponsors 33

Cover photos Claire McLean Toby Kane at the 2006 Paralympic Winter Games 2 AUSTRALIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 3 THE APC PRESIDENT’S REPORT

The reality of Paralympic sport is that today’s world record can be next week’s minor placing. That is the world in which our athletes compete.

One measure of the success of the Australian perspective, through its contributions to the Paralympic Committee is the performance of international Paralympic movement. The APC the Australian Team at the Paralympic Games helped to establish and continues to support and, increasingly, Paralympic achievements the Oceania Paralympic Committee (OPC). are hard-won. In Athens, there were 304 new Through the OPC, Paralympic sport in the world records. In Torino this year, the Oceania region is developing. The introduction competition was the toughest ever, with 52 of the Oceania Paralympic Championships hopefuls finishing behind bronze medallist within the 2007 Arafura Games – an APC Toby Kane in the Super-G. For Beijing, the initiative – will mark another milestone. forecast is more of the same. The Australian Paralympic movement is The reality of Paralympic sport is that today’s increasingly represented on the International world record can be next week’s minor Paralympic Committee, from its Governing placing. That is the world in which our Board through to classification committees and athletes compete. anti-doping, medical and coaching forums. The APC also operates in an environment Back in Australia, the past year has seen the where, if you are not moving forward, you are Australian Sports Commission conduct a going backwards. The Board of the APC is major project to develop a national plan for conscious of the need to keep the APC at disability sport. While the APC made a the forefront of Australian sport – in terms of submission to the ASC, the APC Board also sport performance and the organisation’s saw the need to appoint a Paralympic Sport corporate performance. Task Force, under the chairmanship of Jim Ferguson, to ensure that there was due The need to constantly better our previous consideration of the needs of Paralympic performances is an ongoing philosophical sport. I expect that we shall see the results of driver for the APC. The APC regularly examines both exercises unfold in the coming year, its role and how it can best achieve its strategic appreciation to all those from whom we hopefully to the benefit of all people with aims. While we learn the lessons of the past, receive support, especially the Prime Minister, disabilities, including those who are and who L–R Standing: Doug Denby; Paul Bird; Justin Holdforth; Joyce Parszos; Graeme Watts we keep our sights firmly on the future. John Howard, the Minister for Sport, Rod L–R Seated: Nick Dean; Ken Brown; Greg Hartung (absent: Steve Loader and Darren Peters) aspire to be Paralympians. It is essential that Kemp, the CEO of the Australian Sports This approach has resulted in a number of the APC (including our members) controls our Commission, Mark Peters, and his staff. recent APC initiatives, including the destiny – our record is unparalleled in sport. mainstreaming of the Paralympic Preparation This year I have been delighted to see the The Board of the APC continues to play a vital Program with national sporting organisations, establishment of a supporters’ group of APC Board APC Member Organisations role in ensuring that the APC is dynamic and the Talent Search Program, the APC Federal Parliamentarians, Parliamentary relevant. In the past year its members have Greg Hartung OAM President Athletics Australia Classification Program (under the IPC Friends of Paralympians. I am particularly continued to be active on a range of Classification Code) and the Paralympians pleased that the Prime Minister and the Leader Nick Dean Vice President Australian Sports Organisation for the Disabled committees and, once again, on the Australian Alumni. The APC will soon launch the Telstra of the Opposition have agreed to become joint Paralympic Team. The APC is fortunate to Ken Brown AM Vice President Australian Blind Sports Federation Paralympic Education Program. patrons of the Parliamentary Friends and I have such a committed and talented group to express my appreciation to the group’s Paul Bird OAM Director Australian Sport and Recreation Association for Persons In March 2006, the Commonwealth Games oversee its progress. Chairman, Senator Michael Ronaldson, and with an Intellectual Disability showed how the media can create household Doug Denby Director I also wish to acknowledge the role played by Deputy Chair, Senator Kate Lundy. I wish this names of Australia’s leading athletes with a Basketball Australia the APC’s CEO, Darren Peters, and his staff. valuable group every success. Justin Holdforth Director disability. The APC understands the need to We have become a completely different Cerebral Palsy – Australian Sport and Recreation Federation provide opportunities for Paralympic athletes The past year has been another good one for Steve Loader Director organisation over the past four years, in large to be seen in Australia and the value of the APC. We have set the foundations for the Cycling Australia part due to the ability of Darren, with his core Joyce Parszos Director communicating images and messages future, so that we can continue to make the group of senior managers, to make the Disabled WinterSport Australia about Paralympic sport and we are initiating best use of the resources available to us and Graeme Watts Director changes necessary to keep us effective and relevant programs. continue to provide the best possible Riding for the Disabled Association of Australia relevant to the needs of Paralympic sport. Darren Peters Chief Executive Officer/ opportunities for Australians with a disability to In the coming year, many of these APC Non-voting Director Swimming Australia The APC is fortunate to enjoy strong and pursue their dreams in the Paralympic arena. programs will take centre stage. ongoing support from a range of sponsors Table Tennis Australia Greg Hartung Through the performances of its athletes, most and providers. The most important of these is President Tennis Australia recently in Torino, Australia is seen as a leading the Federal Government and the relationship Australian Paralympic Committee Paralympic nation. The APC seeks to support we enjoy with the Government is a factor in our Wheelchair Sports Australia that position from an administrative success. Once again, I extend my Yachting Australia 4 AUSTRALIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 5 MESSAGE FROM THE AUSTRALIAN SPORTS HONOUR ROLL COMMISSION

The Australian Government is a strong finishes, in addition to the medal winning supporter of Australian sport. The Australian runs, signify a great achievement for a Paralympic Medal recipients Sports Commission (ASC) is the government relatively inexperienced team where six of the body that develops, manages and invests in ten made their Paralympic debuts. This 2001 Mrs Marie Little sport at all levels in Australia. success continued at the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games, where Australian 2002 Mr Ron Finneran The Commission funds and works closely elite athletes with a disability won four gold, with a range of national sporting two silver and three bronze medals. 2004 Ms Adrienne Smith organisations, state and local governments, schools and community bodies to ensure The 2004 election policy contained a 2005 Mr Nick Dean sport is well run and accessible so that commitment by the Australian Government to everyone can participate and enjoy the establish a working group to strategically benefits. The Commission upholds the review the current environment for including integrity of sport through many innovative people with a disability in sport and sport- Australian Paralympian programs to promote ethical sporting related physical activity. The purpose of this practices and sport free of performance review is to determine if the participation in of the Year enhancing drugs. sport by people with a disability can be better met and to develop a plan at During 2005/06, the Australian Government, 1994 Louise Sauvage community, regional, state and national levels through the ASC, supported the Australian to address these needs. The review has Paralympic Committee (APC) through 1995 Priya Cooper progressed well, and the Commission will funding of approximately $5.5 million for the continue to work with the APC to develop a 1996 Louise Sauvage development of the Australian Paralympic National Sport Plan for People with a movement and the continued support of elite Disability report. 1997 Louise Sauvage athletes with a disability. The Australian Sports Commission looks 1998 Louise Sauvage The Commission acknowledges that the APC forward to a continued winning partnership has continued to work to achieve Paralympic with the Australian Paralympic Committee. 2000 Siobhan Paton success, resulting in commendable Australian performances at the IX Winter Mark Peters 2002 Michael Milton Paralympic Games in winning two Alpine CEO Skiing medals. The four Alpine Skiing top ten Australian Sports Commission 2004 Tim Sullivan

Michael Milton

Five time Paralympian Michael Milton retired from Paralympic competition after the 2006 Torino Paralympic Winter Games. During his career, Michael won 11 Paralympic medals, including six gold. He was named the 2002 Laureus World Athlete of the Year with a Disability, the 2002 Paralympian of the Year and currently holds the world speed record for skiers with a disability.

Kurt Fearnley (centre) 6 AUSTRALIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 7

During the year the APC has also benefited • Steve Mason and Belinda Green, who greatly from the support of companies which during the year raised $36,000 for the have provided professional services on a APC from the 4WD ‘Desert Duel’ rally. This CEO’S REPORT pro-bono or heavily discounted basis. adds to previous Desert Duel event fundraising which now totals in excess of In particular, I take this opportunity to thank: $200,000 for the APC; • David Fagan, Managing Partner, and David • John and Di Pass, from 360HR, who The four year Winter Paralympiad culminated in the 2006 Torino Hillard, Pro-Bono Partner, of Clayton Utz created a corporate Bowls Day during for legal advice provided to the APC; the year, raising approximately $24,000 Paralympic Winter Games. Australia sent away its largest ever Winter • Danny Cunningham, Partner of Ernst and for the APC; Young for the donation made from the • John and Yvonne Almgren who donated Team, comprising ten athletes and ten officials. Ernst and Young Foundation; $25,000 to the APC during the year. Since • Shane Dooley, Business Development 2004, the APC has received $76,000 from Manager of Christie Corporate for the the Almgren family; and provision of office accommodation in • Peter Perini and the Perini Family During this past year the APC successfully Sports Commission and used this funding to Queensland and Melbourne; and Foundation, who donated $20,000 to the met its competitive performance targets of advance Paralympic sport and awareness. • John Croll, Chief Executive Officer, and APC during the year. Since June 2004, two Paralympic medals in Torino and of Total income for the year was $8.4 million, Sean Smith, Account Manager, of Media the APC has received $35,000 from the increasing the base of talented athletes for with expenses of $8.2 million and an Monitors for their ongoing provision of Perini family. the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games. Now, operating surplus $185,000. In broad terms, media monitoring services and The APC’s branches play a major role in the competitive challenges lie ahead in the APC performed to budget in 2005/06. commercial advice. Beijing, Vancouver (2010) and London (2012). fundraising, with the work of APC staff SPONSORSHIP AND SUPPORT The APC’s marketing and communications enhanced by volunteers in key roles. The Following the 2004 Athens Paralympic activities are overseen by an advisory sub- contributions made by Di Pass (Chair) and Games, the APC introduced a plan for The principal partner of the APC is the committee to the APC Board, the Marketing Karen McBrien (Deputy Chair) in NSW, Dale growth. It included strategies aimed at Australian Sports Commission. It provides and Communications Commission (MACC). Parker (North Queensland Fundraising sustainable sport performances supported $5.23 million of Federal Government funding The MACC is chaired by APC Director Joyce Coordinator) in Queensland and David Baker by systemic growth, business partnerships a year for the achievement of Paralympic Parszos. Its members are David Flaskas, (Chair) in South Australia are particularly Eliza Stankovic with governments and corporations and sporting results, development and Justin Holdforth, Steve Loader and Darren appreciated. community awareness through Paralympic awareness. I take this opportunity to Peters. The MACC has been very active in programs. This report provides an update on acknowledge the Federal Government’s strategically evaluating marketing and GOVERNMENT SUPPORT the key results, programs and activities of the support of the APC and the Australian communications needs and in assisting the Government support increased during the APC during 2005/06. Paralympic Team and thank the Chairman of APC to take advantage of opportunities. The year, largely due to the Australian Sports the Australian Sports Commission, Peter commitment of this group is greatly valued. An eventful year has included a Paralympic Bartels, and Chief Executive Officer, Mark Commission grant of $5.23 million. In Winter Games in Italy, which overlapped the Peters, for their financial support and advice The APC is also grateful to have benefited addition, the Australian Institute of Sport summer Commonwealth Games in over the past year. Without this, the APC from the knowledge and expertise of Chris provided $240,000 for AIS Paralympic sport Melbourne; reviews of each sport in the would struggle to remain competitive. Branson QC, Honorary Legal Officer; Nicki programs in Swimming and Alpine Skiing. Paralympic Preparation Program (PPP); the Vance, Honorary Doping Officer and Peter State and territory government support continued rollout of our successful national Sponsorship revenue for the year was $1 Brukner, Honorary Medical Officer, all of declined during the year to $133,000, Talent Search Program; consolidation of our million, incorporating significant components whom give freely of their time and advice. compared to $214,000 in the preceding headquarters and branch operations under a from our major sponsors Telstra and Toyota. community awareness is essential to the (Games) year. We are actively working to unitary model; and the continuation of a This was the first year of new sponsorship wider understanding of Toyota’s disability FUNDRAISING improve state and territory government diversified marketing and fundraising strategy agreements with both companies and we access initiatives and to the exposure of baseline contributions to Paralympic sport. aimed at increasing revenue for Games intend to continue to build on the initiatives Fundraising revenue for the year declined to Paralympic athletes and the Paralympic $1.74 million due to the cessation of some years. The 2005/06 year has been both and energy of each to deliver improved I thank Dr. Phil Hamdorf, Executive Director of brand. Toyota’s association with Michael raffles and a slower market – the tsunami challenging and rewarding. benefits to them. On behalf of the APC I thank the South Australian Office of Sport and Milton and the Winter Team this year was effect. Of this fundraising total, approximately the CEO of Telstra, Sol Trujillo, and the Recreation, for its increased support in The four year Winter Paralympiad culminated particularly well-received. half was recognised from prior Summer and Executive Chairman Emeritus of Toyota, John 2005/06 to assist our Paralympic Talent in the 2006 Torino Paralympic Winter Winter Team fundraising activities. Income Conomos AO, for their companies’ support. In 2005/06 we also reached agreement with Search initiatives. The APC received Games. Australia sent away its largest ever was derived from events, face-to-face raffles, Both are fully behind the Australian Paralympic the Motor Accidents Authority (MAA) New $46,000 from the South Australian Winter Team, comprising ten athletes and ten telemarketing, direct-marketing by mail and Committee and our talented athletes. South Wales and Workcover NSW. Government Office of Sport and Recreation. officials. The team achieved two medals, general solicitation. Michael Milton’s silver and Toby Kane’s Telstra, through the personal support of The MAA, through General Manager David Thanks also to Craig Matheson and Ray A diversified fundraising strategy has been bronze. Our partners in the winter program Nicole Wilson and Rhonda Youil, has been Bowen, has introduced an innovative lifetime Ebert, from Sport and Recreation adopted to increase revenues during the James Millar were Disabled WinterSport Australia (DWA) actively engaged in the development of the care policy which has a direct link to athletes Queensland, who authorised an independent lead-up to Beijing, 2008. More work is and the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS). Athlete Ambassador Program and the with a disability. This sponsor support is review of the funding for the APC Queensland required to secure the right commercial DWA identified and developed the athletes Telstra Paralympic Education Program, highly regarded and extends the MAA Branch, on behalf of the State Government, partners and agreement terms for these During the year the APC sought improved over the Paralympiad and the AIS provided which will be rolled out between now and partnership with the APC, which aimed at maximizing services in relation to the important fundraising programs. We will baseline and Paralympic Team related resources, technical and sports advice. The the Beijing Games. Each program aims to commenced well before the 2000 Sydney State Development Program. As a result of redouble our efforts to achieve results in the support from governments for the 2006/07 program’s Head Coach, Steve Graham, set excite and educate audiences about the Paralympic Games. this review a positive report, with role of the APC and Telstra within the year ahead. and 2007/08 financial periods. The success the strategy that ensured the results in The partnership with Workcover NSW, recommendations, has been implemented to community and to connect Australians with of this activity will be declared in next year’s Torino. Each organisation and individual through the enduring support of Heidi Pollard I particularly thank: benefit both parties for future years. The APC annual report. involved shares the success of these Games our Paralympic athletes. received $57,000 from the Queensland and Patricia Rixon, has proven to be • Ray Epstein, his staff and the volunteers at and, on behalf of the APC, I thank them. Toyota, through Peter Evans, Scott invaluable to our athletes. For more than six Department of Local Government, Planning, NON GOVERNMENT the Queensland Sporting Wheelies and Sport and Recreation. Thomson and Jennifer Crowe, has years now, they have assigned sponsor Disabled Association, which this year PARTNERSHIPS FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE support for athletes to speak at key consolidated its strategy for the partnership raised $74,598 for the APC in The APC also received $30,000 from the New South Wales Our financial position has improved during and has actively used Paralympic athletes to engagements to reinforce workplace safety Queensland. This is a great partnership New South Wales Department of the Arts, the year, partly due to increased Australian promote its sponsorship of the APC and the messages and also provide a donation to WorkCover NSW continued its sponsorship between two disability organisations which Sport and Recreation and I thank its Director- of the Paralympic Speaker Program. This Government revenue. The APC received a Australian Paralympic Team to dealers, athletes and the APC. This program works conduct an activity to benefit athletes with General, Bob Adby, and the General Manager grant of $5.23 million from the Australian suppliers and the broader public. This for the public benefit. program reinforces workplace safety a disability on a mutual profit share basis; of NSW Sport and Recreation, Daryl Clout, for messages while helping five Paralympians the Department’s ongoing support. 8 CEO’S REPORT AUSTRALIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 9

achieve their sporting goals. These athletes workplace safety messages and positive has continued to identify potential TABLE 2 provide inspirational presentations to outlooks while helping these athletes achieve Paralympians around Australia. Such is the 2006 Winter Games and Commonwealth Games Media workplaces, schools, colleges, conferences, their sporting goals. success of the initiative that a number of media events or annual dinners. athletes identified through the Talent Search Victoria 2006 Winter Games Commonwealth Games Program were selected to represent Australia The Motor Accidents Authority of NSW will 1 1 During the year the Victorian Branch at World Championships in 2006 in Athletics, Articles Circ/Aud Articles Circ/Aud provide funding of $300,000 over three welcomed the Victorian Disabled Sports Swimming and Rowing. Many more will years for the delivery of the Paralympic Print 134 19,411,484 210 22,503,630 Advisory Committee into its offices. We are represent Australia at the FESPIC Games and Accident Awareness and Rehabilitation delighted that through the continued support other international events over the next 12 Television 410 7,839,769 180 5,864,333 Program. The aim of this program is to link of Christie Corporate we have been able to months as they advance their development. Radio 327 7,455,900 357 8,557,900 people in rehabilitation centres across NSW provide this important umbrella body with to Paralympic sports and raise awareness of office space and in so doing have forged a The program is driven by APC Development Total 871 34,707,1532 747 36,925,8632 specific rehabilitation processes undertaken strong organisational relationship that will be Officers in the ACT, NSW, Queensland, 1Circulation/Audience by elite Paralympic athletes who have been of great benefit to all athletes over the South Australia, Victoria and Western 2Total combined audience over the Games period involved in motor vehicle accidents. coming year. Australia. In Queensland and Western Australia, we conduct the program under an The NSW Branch has gained the support With the regular conduct of athlete forums for arrangement between the APC and the TABLE 3 of Precedent Productions, which produces Victorian based members of the Paralympic Queensland Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Comparison of web site traffic for first four months of 2004/05/06 The Business Awards. This relationship fraternity, the Victorian Branch has been able Sport and Recreation Association and the provides the NSW Branch with access to to create a regular communication channel Wheelchair Sports Western Australia 2004 (Jan–April) 2005 (Jan–April) 2006 (Jan–April) thousands of small business across NSW and the beginnings of a Paralympic Association. Total Hits 313,506 564,793 958,801 as part of the APC’s new fundraising community within the state. initiative, Connect1000. Potential Paralympians have been identified Total Visits 24,602 69,686 81,734 in Archery, Athletics, Wheelchair Basketball, Queensland MAINSTREAMING Boccia, Cycling, Equestrian, Powerlifting, The very important strategic, operational Mainstreaming is an area that the APC Rowing, Shooting, Swimming, Table Tennis, Coverage of athletes with a disability in both plays a vital role in ensuring the business partnership between the APC Queensland manages diligently to ensure the best Tennis and Winter Sports. The APC events was predominantly results-focused, objectives of the organisation are achieved. Branch and the Sporting Wheelies and outcomes for athletes. concentrating on the Winter medallists Development Officers work closely with Our Branch Managers and National Disabled Association continues to prosper. Michael Milton and Toby Kane and During the year the APC mainstreamed identified athletes and the relevant NSOs, Development Managers continue to prove Following a formal review and the Commonwealth Games Swimming dual Shooting and Rowing with the relevant national NSODs and state sporting associations to that we can be successful ‘in the field’. While continuation of the Service Agreement gold medallist Matt Cowdrey. sporting organisation (NSO). It also entered into ensure that each athlete has access to fundraising has been difficult, there has been established last year, once again the an agreement with the Riding for the Disabled coaches and a relevant pathway to assist in Sporting Wheelies team has provided The ABC provided excellent coverage of the an increase in public awareness, athlete Association of Australia (RDAA) in relation to the fast-tracking their development. 2006 Paralympic Winter Games and I thank numbers (due to Talent Search), excellent results in the area of talent Equestrian program. We continue to work with identification and is preparing to assist in The next twelve months will see more Talent Iain Knight, Head of Sport for this coverage. organisational standing in the community Talent search day the Equestrian Federation of Australia and Search Days and a move into areas such as The group of ABC production staff worked and operational synergy. I feel we have the launching the APC Paralympic Education RDAA to forge a tripartite mainstreaming Program throughout Queensland Schools. Tasmania and the Northern Territory, with a tirelessly in Italy to produce an excellent daily right staff to achieve the targets we have set. agreement for this program. package of action from the Games. The APC appreciates the effort of the many focus on developing strategies to bring Talent On behalf of the President and Board I thank Sporting Wheelies staff members and There are now ten sports managed under Search to indigenous communities and to all staff for their dedication and work during volunteers who have provided assistance mainstreaming agreements with generic offer opportunities for athlete classification as WEB SITE this past year. throughout the year. NSOs: Athletics; Basketball; Cycling; Football; part of the program. Usage of the APC web site continues to Rowing; Shooting; Swimming; Table Tennis; Table 1 summarises the results of the Talent increase. In 2005, the APC conducted a GOVERNANCE The Queensland branch office continues to Tennis; and Yachting. In addition, Equestrian customer survey to ensure that remodelling of Search program for the 2005/06 year. The APC Board met on five occasions during receive generous support from Christie and Wheelchair Rugby are currently managed the site met the needs of key stakeholders. In the year. The Board has been actively led by Corporate, which provides office by relevant NSODs. Sports are at varying February 2006 the remodelled site was MEDIA the President, Greg Hartung, who has accommodation within the Christie Centre in stages of disability integration and the APC is introduced, with a dynamic new look and worked tirelessly in his role as President and central Brisbane, through Chairman Robert working with the NSOs, NSODs and Media attention during 2005/06 was additional sport, athlete and organisational Chairman. Business addressed by the Board Christie and General Manager Tim Lambert. government to manage the services and boosted by coverage of the 2006 Paralympic information. Table 3 compares the traffic over during the year included the Winter Team, programs provided to athletes with a disability. Winter Games and the Melbourne the first four months of the last 3 years, with South Australia funding submissions, the ASC disability Commonwealth Games, which included both visits and hits more than trebling in that A new partnership has been formed with review, marketing, financial performance, TALENT SEARCH events for elite athletes with a disability (EAD) time. Even allowing for the activity around the Workcover SA, with five of South Australia’s operations and staffing. The Executive in some Paralympic Sports. Media coverage 2006 Winter Games, the figures clearly well known Paralympic athletes to take part As part of our goal of doubling our athlete Committee met on two occasions during the of these two events is listed in Table 2. demonstrate the continuing increase in traffic. in the program. The Program reinforces base, the nationwide Talent Search Program year, concentrating primarily on issues in STAFFING relation to staffing. The Marketing and TABLE 1 Communications Commission, chaired by The APC has 23 employees throughout Summary of the Talent Search Program, July 2005 to June 2006 Director Joyce Parszos, met on four Australia, with 15 located at its head office occasions during the year. Its discussions Number of Days held 21 (13 regional, 8 metropolitan) in Sydney. centred on the attainment of sponsorship and communications goals. Total Participants 473 (including 125 participants with an intellectual disability).* During the year a revised staffing model was adopted. A functional model, incorporating I wish to express my personal gratitude to Participants with Beijing Potential (Tier 1) 55 three business units – sport, policy and Greg Hartung and the members of the Board Participants with London Potential (Tier 2) 167 information, finance and administration – was for their passionate and professional chosen to improve results and to increase contribution and for the support and NSW 6 talent search days, 106 participants (incl 35 ID) 7 Tier 1, 46 Tier 2 the APC’s strategic focus. guidance they provide to the staff. VIC 6 talent search days, 134 participants (incl 35 ID) 18 Tier 1, 29 Tier 2 The three business units are headed by Darren Peters QLD 4 talent search days, 109 participants (incl 21 ID) 8 Tier 1, 28 Tier 2 Director of Sport Jason Hellwig, who was Chief Executive Officer also appointed Deputy CEO in 2006, Australian Paralympic Committee SA 3 talent search days, 61 participants (incl 5 ID) 9 Tier 1, 25 Tier 2 Director of Policy and Information Tony Naar WA 2 talent search days, 78 participants (incl 25 ID) 7 Tier 1, 22 Tier 2 and Margaret Bouttell, our National Finance and Administration Manager. Each executive Ben Austin *ID figures are excluded from the Tier 1 and 2 breakdown, following the IPC decision to exclude ID athletes from IPC sanctioned events. 10 AUSTRALIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 11 FINANCE AND FUNDRAISING National Fundraising Campaigns Finance Report – 30 June 2006

During 2005/06, there was a decline in The NSW Branch has started to roll out FACE-TO-FACE RAFFLES The Australian Paralympic Committee (APC) June 2005 to $4.1m at 30 June 2006. An The Sydney Legacy Fund has been created fundraising performance as is historically Connect1000 to small businesses which Face-to-face raffles were conducted in most operated in all States and Territories of explanation for the movement of Net Assets from the balance of the sale of the evident in the year following the Summer were finalists in The Business Awards and States and Territories by contractor Allsports, Australia during the year ended 30 June is given in the Statement of Changes in Paralympic marketing rights during the period Games. The gross income recognised for will extend the program to small businesses a subsidiary of Cobra Pty Ltd. The gross 2006 and the attached finance report Equity. The investment account of $5.3m prior to the Sydney Paralympic Games in the period was $1.74m, with expenses of in the ACT in 2006/07. income generated through face-to-face reflects these operations. includes a $2.0m prepayment from the 2000. The reserve is regarded as ‘capital’ in $1.2m, resulting in a net return of $574K. Australian Sports Commission for use in nature and is matched by a separate trust raffles was $369K. The two major raffle The APC’s financial results for the year ended The APC invested in donor acquisition, preparations for the Beijing Games in 2008. fund. The Sydney Legacy Fund balance at DONOR DATABASE campaigns running in 2005/06 were in 30 June 2006 reflect a financially sound through the face-to-face raffle method, The investment account also includes the 30 June 2006 was $2.25m. The APC donor database increased from South Australia and Tasmania. South organisation built on a solid foundation. which resulted in an additional 103,574 Sydney Legacy Fund of $2.25m and $0.8m 173,831 to 277,405 during the year. This Australia generated a net result of $180K and As always, we are extremely grateful to our donors. The cost of this is expensive and is For the year ended 30 June 2006 the APC is relating to the Paralympic Games Reserve represents a significant increase of 63% of Tasmania $30K. The raffle in Victoria which sponsors and to our benefactors and reported in the direct marketing costs for reporting an operating surplus of $185K. (refer below). new donors, largely acquired through ran over most of 2004/05 was completed in especially to the Australian Federal each State and Territory where face-to-face Income of $8.4m compares with income of Allsports raffle campaigns in Victoria, South 2005/06 and raised a net surplus of $199K. This year was also a ‘Games year’, with the Government through the Australian Sports raffles occurred. This action is a key $9.4m for the previous year. The peak in Australia, Tasmania and the ACT. The net Paralympic Winter Games taking place in Commission for its ongoing support of fundraising strategy to secure income as we Raffle campaigns are planned for Victoria, 2005 is attributable to sponsorship earned cost of donor acquisition for the year was March 2006. The cost of sending the team the APC. head to Beijing, 2008 and London, 2012. South Australia, Western Australia and NSW for the 2004 Paralympic Summer Games. $120,000. In future years this strategy and to Torino was $656K, balanced against a in 2006/07. Total expenses reduced marginally from The summarised financial report for last year, Revenue was generated from events costs will be of lesser importance as donor budget set before the Games of $740K. $8.6m in 2005 to $8.2m in 2006. In together with comparatives for the previous ($194K), face-to-face campaigns ($369K), relationship building is emphasised. EVENTS accordance with Federal Government In 2006 the APC established two year, are given on the next page. For further telemarketing ($75K), direct marketing conditions attached to our funding, additional restricted reserves. detailed financial statements, together with ($149K), general fundraising ($71K) and TELEMARKETING Desert Duel sport programs have been introduced during the report of our auditors, Ernst and Young, deferred Winter Games fundraising ($885K) During 2005/06 the Desert Duel four wheel The Paralympic Games Reserve was created While regulations relating to privacy have the year, as a result of which expenditure on I would invite you to apply to the offices of generated in the previous year. drive activity was again a major success. As to reflect the portion of accumulated funds limited telemarketing within Australia, our sport programs has increased by $1.3m for the APC. in past years, the event was organised and that have been earned specifically to meet Unfortunately, during the year some natural telemarketing for the period still generated the year (compared with 2005). hosted by Steve Mason and Belinda Green, the expenses of future Paralympic Games. Doug Denby disasters which occurred in the region $75K. This resulted from a successful Art with fifty Desert Duellers teaming up and The APC has a strong balance sheet with The reserve is restricted to Games’ Finance Director reduced the public offering to the Australian Union conducted by the Queensland navigating their way through the Clare Valley healthy short term and long term liquidity. Net expenses. The reserve balance at Paralympic Committee through planned Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Association on the way to Woomera, William Creek, Assets have increased from $3.7m at 30 30 June 2006 was $800K. campaigns. It is expected this will improve for mutual benefit during the year. NBN Coober Pedy, Marla, Uluru, Kings Canyon in 2006/07. In addition, we have a strong Television, through Mike Rabbitt, provided a and then on to Alice Springs. base in existing donors and proposed new Community Service campaign to promote fundraising relationships. the Art Union in the Gold Coast area. This has been an annual event, generating income for the NSW branch for many years. Looking forward towards its Beijing, 2008 Another activity will be conducted by the In 2005/06 the event generated $36K for the fundraising targets, the APC has adopted a Queensland Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Paralympic Team campaign. new fundraising strategy and recently Association in 2006/07. appointed South Australia Branch Manager, Corporate Lawn Bowls Day DIRECT MARKETING Sue Shepherd, to the role of National In NSW, Di and John Pass of 360HR Fundraising Manager. Direct marketing generated $149K during the hosted their inaugural corporate lawn bowls year, with a net return of $82K. This derived day to raise money for the APC. The event CONNECT1000 from two national direct mail campaigns, one was well attended, with Ray Hadley as the Connect1000 is a new initiative of the APC, in November 2005, and the other in June auctioneer. Paralympians Kurt Fearnley, designed to generate revenue from small 2006. On both occasions the highest Amy Winters and John Marshall participated and medium sized businesses. It is primarily revenue was derived from NSW, where a in the event, which raised a total of $24K for a corporate membership program where total of 1,460 donors contributed a net the APC. businesses and schools can form a amount of $63K. This included a substantial North Queensland workplace giving partnership with the APC, for an annual individual donation of $20K. scheme contribution. Industry best practice for response to direct mail campaigns stands between 0.5 to 1.5%. The efforts of long-standing Chairman of Connect1000 was launched in South Fundraising in North Queensland, Councillor Australia in May to 50 corporate The response rate for the APC’s direct mail activities in 2005/06 was 3.58%. Dale Parker, were recognised in this year’s businesses. In attendance were Her Queen’s Birthday Honours. This year, in Excellency Marjorie Jackson Nelson, conjunction with Townsville City Council, Governor of South Australia and Dr Phil which provided all the promotional material, Hamdorf, Executive Director of the South Dale launched a workplace giving scheme, Australian Office of Sport and Recreation. under which staff from Townsville City Council, the Townsville Port Authority and members of the community provide a weekly donation through their pay, right through to Beijing in 2008. Wade McMahon 12 FINANCE AND FUNDRAISING AUSTRALIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 13 FINANCE AND FUNDRAISING Finance Report – 30 June 2006 (continued)

INCOME STATEMENT (IN $000) STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (IN $000) for the year ended 30 June 2006 2006 2005

Restricted Reserves Income Asset Sydney Paralympic Australian Sports Commission (Note 1) 4,648 3,750 Accumulated Revaluation Legacy Games Other grants and sponsors 1,639 3,237 Funds Reserve Fund Reserve TOTAL Fundraising 1,742 2,078 Income from investments 410 356 At 1 July 2004 2,888 63 - - 2,951 Other 7 7 Fair value revaluation of Investments - (46) - - (46) 8,446 9,428 Surplus for year 876 - - - 876 At 30 June 2005 3,764 17 0 0 3,781 Expenditure Fair value revaluation of Investments - 169 - - 169 Paralympic Games 656 2,801 Transfer to Sydney Legacy Fund (2,250) - 2,250 - 0 Sport programs 4,561 3,227 Promotions, marketing and media 601 913 Transfer to Paralympic Games Reserve (800) - - 800 0 Fundraising 1,168 469 Surplus for year 185 - - - 185 Administration 1,275 1,142 At 30 June 2006 899 186 2,250 800 4,135 8,261 8,552

Surplus for year 185 876

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2006 (IN $000) BALANCE SHEET (IN $000) as at 30 June 2006 2006 2005 APC ACT NSW QLD SA TAS VIC WA Total as per income Assets statement Cash and cash equivalents 1,648 2,185 Income 6,884 31 602 281 341 87 143 77 8,446 Investments and managed funds 5,339 4,163 Receivables and other assets 382 1,192 Expenditure 6,732 67 491 228 338 58 285 62 8,261 7,369 7,540

Surplus / (deficit) for year 152 (36) 111 53 3 29 (142) 15 185 Liabilities Payables and provisions 408 654 Deferred revenue and grants 2,826 3,105 Note 2 Note 2 3,234 3,759

Net Assets 4,135 3,781 Note 1: The Australian Sports Commission grant of $5.23m was reduced to $4.648m due to an amount of $582K unexpended during the financial year and carried over to 2006/07. Equity Note 2: The deficits in ACT and VIC arose as a result of extended direct marketing campaigns over two years where Restricted reserves 3,236 17 the majority of income was recognised in 2005 with the majority of expenses in 2006. Accumulated Funds 899 3,764 4,135 3,781

Heath Francis 14 AUSTRALIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 15 2006 PARALYMPIC TORINO WINTER GAMES 10–19 MARCH 2006

The Torino 2006 Team, the biggest to cross-country events, and covering some class skiers. Australia’s second medal of the Downhill and Toby’s bronze in Super-G – sought and was granted permission to announced their retirement from Paralympic represent Australia at a Paralympic Winter 55 kilometres in competition, James Games was won by the Team’s youngest placed Australia 13th out of 39 countries on transfer the Closing Ceremony honour to competition. Both will continue their Games, included Australia’s first ever female became known as the “Ironman of the member, 19 year old Toby Kane, who won the overall medal table. Toby Kane, who is seen by many as having involvement with skiing and the APC thanks Winter Paralympian – Emily Jansen – and Australian Team”. bronze in the Super-G for standing class Michael Milton was selected as the the potential to also become a legend of them for their significant contribution to Australia’s first Nordic Skier at a Paralympic In his fifth and final Paralympic Games, skiers. Toby shared the medal podium with Flagbearer for both the Opening and Closing the slopes. Paralympic sport and wishes them both well Games for more than 20 years – James Millar. Michael Milton won his 11th Paralympic two athletes who were both in their mid-30s. Ceremonies. While he proudly carried the On the last day of competition, Scott in their future endeavours. Competing in a total of five biathlon and medal, a silver in the Downhill for standing Australia’s two medals – Michael’s silver in Australian flag at the Opening Ceremony, he Adams and Michael Milton officially

AUSTRALIAN TEAM AUSTRALIAN TOP 40 TORINO 2006 FINISHES AT THE TORINO Athletes: PARALYMPIC GAMES Shannon Dallas – Team Captain Scott Adams Scott Adams Downhill 40 Dean Calabrese Giant Slalom 40 Emily Jansen Slalom 38 Toby Kane Dean Calabrese Marty Mayberry Giant Slalom 34 James Millar Slalom 37 Michael Milton Shannon Dallas Cameron Rahles-Rahbula Emily Jansen Super G 9 Nicholas Watts Giant Slalom 18 Emily Jansen Michael Milton Staff: Giant Slalom 21 Darren Peters – Chef de Mission and APC Toby Kane Chief Executive Officer Super G 3 Nick Dean – Assistant Chef de Mission Downhill 9 Steve Graham – Head Coach James Millar Slalom 16 Andrew Bor – Coach Marty Mayberry Alan Dean – Technical Official Downhill 33 Fiona Peat – Medical Officer Giant Slalom 21 Alison Daniel – Trainer Natalie Jenkins – Administration Officer Slalom 19 Margie McDonald – Press Attaché Michael Milton Angus Mackenzie – Attaché Downhill 2 Super G 12 Marty Mayberry Joint Management Committee: Giant Slalom 13 Steve Gibb – Chair Slalom 9 Ron Finneran – Member James Millar Shannon Dallas Biathlon 2.5km 20 CC Short Distance 5km 22 Biathlon 7.5km 18 CC Medium Distance 10km 25 CC Long Distance 20km 24 Cameron Rahles-Rahbula Slalom 14 Nick Watts Downhill 31 Super G 33 Cameron Rahles-Rahbula Toby Kane, Scott Adams, Emily Jansen Nick Dean Winter team (absent Shannon Dallas) Giant Slalom 27 Slalom 30 16 SPORTING REPORTS AUSTRALIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 17

SPORT REPORTS ATHLETICS

The program is in the latter stages of a rebuilding phase, following the ARCHERY Athletics team’s second placing at the 2004 Athens Paralympics.

The Athletics PPP is managed by Athletics The Committee has established rigorous selection criteria for the Australia (AA) under a mainstreaming agreement with the APC. program. By April 2006, there were one silver and two bronze The primary goal for the AA-PPP is to produce the best ever away Games level athletes. performance at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games. To achieve this goal, Australia must finish as one of the top two nations. In an environment where our competitors are investing large amounts of resources in Paralympic sport, this is a difficult, but attainable, challenge.

MAINSTREAMING During 2005/06, the mainstreaming partnership between Athletics Australia and the APC, commenced in 2001, was reaffirmed. Key mainstreaming milestones during the year included: Evan O’Hanlon (left) and Tim Sullivan (centre) 1) An agreement to conduct the inaugural Athletics Australia Underage AWD Championships in Canberra in Coach education has also been a major 2005 Canberra INAS-FID World November 2006; focus for the AA-PPP over the past 12 Athletics Championships 2) The inclusion of 12 EAD athletes in the months. Alison O’Riordan has liaised with the The 2005 INAS-FID World Athletics Athletics team for the 2006 Melbourne Australian Track and Field Coaches Championships were held in Canberra from Commonwealth Games; Association (ATFCA) to implement a number 26 September to 1 October, 2005. The 3) The ongoing support to AA-PPP squad of coach education initiatives, with the Australian contingent of 22 athletes and 9 members to attend training camps and philosophy that a larger pool of committed staff was the biggest team ever to contest access targeted competitions as part of and competent coaches will enhance the these Championships. Head Coach for the both the qualifying process and the final program’s ability to adequately support the team was John Bell, supported by a number preparation for Melbourne; Emerging Talent Squad athletes and athletes of Paralympic Coaches and Paralympians. 4) The running of the fifth combined AWD with a disability generally. and able-bodied National Championships; Head Coach and AA PPP Manager: and INTERNATIONAL Scott Goodman The Archery Paralympic Program (PPP) is DEVELOPMENT ATHLETES 5) Continued AWD events coverage in the COMPETITION Wheelchair Track and Road Coaches: managed by the APC in conjunction with Telstra A-Series. Andrew Dawes (Coordinator); Paul Angel; 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games Archery Australia (AA). The Archers with a Disability Committee has The Committee has established rigorous Louise Sauvage; and Greg Jones formulated a plan to identify and develop selection criteria for the program. By April DEVELOPMENT A number of AA-PPP squad members Throws Coaches: Alison O’Riordan MAINSTREAMING archers with a disability, incorporating the 2006, there were one silver and two bronze represented Australia in the six AWD events (Coordinator) Gary Lees; and John Eden following initiatives: level athletes. Since then one archer has The program is in the latter stages of a at the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth As a step towards mainstreaming, Archery Sprints and Jumps Coaches: Brett Jones improved steadily and is now close to the rebuilding phase, following the Athletics Games. With significant support from the Australia (AA) and the Australian Paralympic • attend APC Talent Search Days; (Coordinator); Richard Bednall; and Iryna gold level. Three archers will attend the team’s second placing at the 2004 Athens Australian Commonwealth Games Committee (APC) have created the Archers • design an Archers with a Disability Dvoskina FESPIC Games in November 2006. Paralympics. To help find the next generation Association (ACGA), the AA-PPP with a Disability Committee, comprising Pathway Program to run parallel with the 2005 INAS World Championships Head of Paralympic champions, AA-PPP staff have implemented a program to assist the athletes representatives of the APC, AA and able-bodied pathway program; Coach: John Bell CLASSIFICATION been working closely with the APC’s National preparing for these events. Standout Australian Athletes with a Disability (AAWD). • advertise for Regional Coordinators for the Development Officers to support the APC’s Physiotherapists: Luke Vladich and Vicki O’Brien, Australia’s only national level individual performances included: The Committee oversees the PPP, under the program; and Talent Search program. Results to date have Rowena Toppenberg classifier, provisionally classified several chairmanship of Vicki O’Brien. • advertise for archers to join the program. been promising and have contributed to the • Heath Francis’ victory in the T46 200m; Massage Therapists: Kieran Cusack and archers at the National Archery establishment of an AA-PPP Emerging Talent • Lisa McIntosh’s victory in the T38 100m; Phil Power While there is still work to be done to fill all Championships. The availability of a Squad, coordinated by Brett Jones. There • Katrina Webb’s Silver Medal in the T38 Managers: Louise Mogg; Andrew Faichney; the Regional Coordinator positions, two medical classifier is an important next step are now more than 40 “new” athletes in the 100m; and and Michael Thomson potential archers were identified at a Talent in establishing a classification process for squad, being nurtured towards the 2008 • Asti Poole’s Bronze Medal in the Women’s Athletics Australia AWD Representative Search Day in Melbourne and one has been all archers. Beijing and 2012 London Paralympic Games. Seated Shotput event. and AWD Statistician: Neil Fuller selected to join the program. Distance Coordinator: Robbie Bolton Program Manager: Vicki O’Brien 18 SPORTING REPORTS AUSTRALIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 19 WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL CYCLING

2005/06 was a positive year for the basketball program, with the The standout athlete was Chris Scott, with four gold medals. The lowest development work following the Athens Paralympics reaping benefits for placing in their favoured events on the track for any of the new athletes both the men’s and women’s teams. was fourth, an incredible first showing.

The Basketball PPP is managed by June 2006 to bring together representatives of The Cycling PPP is managed by Cycling 2006 Australian Road Cycling The standout athlete was Chris Scott, with Basketball Australia (BA) under a able-bodied and disability basketball. One Australia (CA) under a mainstreaming Championships, Sydney 3–5 May 2006 four gold medals, the first time he has mainstreaming agreement with the APC. workshop was devoted to the wheelchair agreement with the APC. • Integrated with the Australian Masters swept all the events on offer in game and one to athletes with an intellectual Road Championships, and for the first international competition. disability. Both were very successful in bringing PROGRAM OVERVIEW DOMESTIC TRAINING CAMPS time the program included a road race In her first international event, Jane national and state personnel together and have 2005/06 was a positive year for the The following domestic training camps were and road time trial event for all disability Armstrong picked up two golds and a silver. already created opportunities for increased co- basketball program, with the development held in Adelaide during 2006: classes according to Cycling Australia The lowest placing in their favoured events work undertaken in 2004/05 following the operation for the sport. Technical Regulations; • LC/CP training camp – 3–7 April 2006 on the track for any of the new athletes was Athens Paralympics reaping benefits for both • Opportunity for squad qualification to The recently completed Level 0 coach • Tandem training camp – 15–19 May 2006 fourth, an incredible first showing. the men’s and women’s teams. education resource is fully integrated for National team for 2006 World • Team sprint camp – 21–26 May 2006 Overall, Australia won six gold, seven silver wheelchair basketball. It includes a coaching Championships for athletes competing in The men’s program has continued to be • TID follow up training camps – various and four bronze medals, finishing as second manual and a DVD and will be utilised by State the Hand Cycling and Tricycle categories. challenged by a lack of low and mid pointers, (held in SA/NSW/QLD) nation on the track and second overall (track even as it enjoys an abundance of high and local basketball associations to conduct The purpose of these camps was to ensure INTERNATIONAL TRAINING and road). pointers. The women’s program has Level 0 coaching courses. It is hoped that this optimal performance preparation and CAMPS AND COMPETITION identified some new, exciting, young athletes, will increase the number of coaches available 2006 Paralympic World Cup, assessment of targeted athletes. who have now been exposed to a high level to assist at the entry level for both wheelchair 2005 Open European Cycling Manchester UK, 10–15 May of competition. However, the number of and intellectual disability basketball. Championships, Netherlands, Nine Australian athletes (including tandem players, both men and women, is still below NATIONAL COMPETITION 12–20 August pilots) participated in this invitational event, what is desired for the future, particularly MEN’S PROGRAM – 2006 Australian Track Championships, A very inexperienced team travelled to the winning three Gold, seven Silver and four looking forward to 2010 and 2012. THE ROLLERS Adelaide SA, 6–11 February 2006 Netherlands for this major competition, with Bronze medals (including one new world Camps • Fully integrated with able bodied eight of the 11 athletes having their first record for Angela Fleming). exposure to international competition and their DEVELOPMENT In 2006, five Rollers’ squad members played competition; Prior to the Paralympic World Cup, three Alison Mosley first opportunity to be internationally classified, It is imperative for our Paralympic success in Europe in the Italian and Spanish leagues. • Opportunity for squad qualification to Australian athletes also competed at the having achieved qualifying times in some in 2008, and beyond, to have a strong While there is no doubt that this competition National team for 2006 World X Paralinpikoentzako Bizkaiko Bira 2006, a events in training. All athletes achieved PBs, underpinning program, with good links to contributes to the overall improvement of Championships. road Tour in Bilbao, Spain, from 29 April to WOMEN’S PROGRAM – some of which happened to be world records. grassroots and development programs at these athletes, it limits opportunities to hold THE GLIDERS 1 May, 2006. This road group then joined the all levels. regular camps in Australia. Preparation for Australian track group in Newport for a day’s the 2008 Paralympics will involve camps in Camps Off the court, Basketball Australia (BA) was part track racing at the 2006 City of Newport Europe in 2007 and 2008. During 2005 the Gliders introduced a of a number of meetings involving the Disability Grand Prix on 3 May. strength and conditioning program. With the Australian Sports Commission’s (ASC) review In 2006, the preparation for the World assistance of the NSW Institute of Sport, the on disability sport. Through the Project Championship in July in Amsterdam included TALENT IDENTIFICATION program was delivered through the Gliders’ CONNECT initiative, BA held 2 workshops in a pre-championship series of games against The CA/PPP cycling program continues to camps and individual testing sessions. This Italy in Rome. support the APC Talent Search days and is was a major initiative for the team and is a committed to conducting follow up training World Championship Qualifier critical area for the team’s preparation camps to assist in fast tracking identified elite leading into the 2008 Paralympics. The key focus for 2006 was the World potential athletes. Two athletes who emerged Championships, in Amsterdam in July. The from this process were subsequently team qualified in first position through its win INTERNATIONAL selected in the team for the 2006 in the IWBF Asia Oceania Qualification COMPETITION World Championships. Tournament in Korea in September 2005, From the evaluation of the 2004 program, it where it won its preliminary games easily was apparent that the team needed to play MAINSTREAMING and defeated Japan in the final. more international games. The team travelled The cycling program continues to work out of to the USA to compete in the World Paralympic World Cup the Cycling Australia high performance Basketball challenge, where it played against centre in Adelaide (SA) and continues to The Rollers won the silver medal for the Germany, USA, Netherlands and Canada, make progress as an equal partner in the second year in a row at the invitation–only finishing in 4th position behind Canada. The Cycling Australia organisation under CA High VISA Paralympic World Cup. After beating Gliders used the tournament to provide Performance Manager Kevin Tabotta. Canada easily in the preliminary rounds, the experience of international competition to a Rollers went down 65–49 to the reigning number of younger athletes. Head Coach: Kevin McIntosh Paralympic champions in the final. Assistant Coach: David Short Head Coach: Gerry Hewson High Performance Manager: Head Coach: Murray Treseder Assistant Coach: Matt Dunstan Kevin Tabotta Assistant Coach: Mal Keene Program Manager/Assistant Coach: Paralympic Program Administrator: Program Manager: Kelvin Browner Sonia Healy Troy Sachs Lindy Hou and pilot Toireasa Gallagher Elsa Lepore Physiotherapist: Ian Lowther Physiotherapist: David Spurrier

20 SPORTING REPORTS AUSTRALIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 21 EQUESTRIAN FOOTBALL

An ambitious technical plan was put forward that dramatically Players who had been part of the previous program welcomed the new increased the size of the PPP Squad and included a strong structure and, with the Socceroos making the World Cup, it was development component. exciting times for the sport and the CP team.

The Equestrian PPP is managed by the • Squad training in clinics has been held in Riding for the Disabled Association Australia WA, SA, Qld, NSW, Vic; (RDAA) under a memorandum of • 11 athletes attended international understanding with the APC. competitions in England; • Junior riders competed successfully in MAINSTREAMING England; and Following a program review in December • The International Equestrian Federation 2005, the APC formed a strategic (FEI) has agreed to hold a qualifier event at partnership with Riding for the Disabled Werribee, Australia in October 2007. Association Australia (RDAA) in March 2006 to manage the Equestrian Paralympic HORSE ACQUISITION Preparation Program until 2009. RDAA While the training and development of the appointed a new National Coach, Chef athletes continues at a high level, the focus d’Equipe and High Performance Manager to of attention is on the acquisition of horses for implement a performance based technical the 2007 World Cup in England and the plan and revitalise the PPP Squad. 2008 Paralympic Games. A formula for corporate sponsorship has been devised STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT that should enable the purchase of top An ambitious technical plan was put forward quality international standard horses for that dramatically increased the size of the these competitions. PPP Squad and included a strong Beijing will be the best opportunity in many development component for a National years for Australian equestrian athletes to Dressage Squad. In pursuit of the goals set perform at the highest level. out in the technical plan the following have Head Coach: Mary Longden been achieved since March 2006: Beau Menzies (L) and Brett Fairhall (R) Grace Bowman High Performance Manager: • PPP Squad has eight athletes; and her horse Hayley’s Star Becky Layton • National Dressage Squad has 24 athletes; Chef d’Equipe: Ken Dagley The Football PPP is managed by the Football In March 2006, Paul Brown was appointed • AIS Training camp held with 26 participants; Federation of Australia (FFA) under a as Head Coach and straight away brought a mainstreaming agreement with the APC. very professional and hard working approach to the program. MAINSTREAMING Following the failure of the cerebral palsy PROGRAM (7-a-side) team to qualify for the Athens The new program was officially launched with Paralympic Games, the APC initiated an a three day training camp at the NSW Sports independent review of the program. Academy at Narrabeen, which was followed with another camp at Narrabeen in June. As a result, the APC and the Cerebral Palsy – Players who had been part of the previous Australian Sports and Recreation Federation program welcomed the new structure and, (CP-ASRF) concluded an agreement with with the Socceroos making the World Cup, it the Football Federation of Australia (FFA) to was exciting times for the sport and the manage the Cerebral Palsy (CP) Football CP team. program. FFA is the governing body for football in Australia and the mainstreaming Leading into the second half of 2006 the agreement ensured CP football would be focus will be set on preparing for the FESPIC managed within a professional structure and Games in Malaysia. The long term vision is to given the opportunity to develop and grow qualify for the Beijing Paralympics and towards Beijing. increase the exposure of talented athletes with CP to the sport. FFA consulted with the APC in implementing Ben Roche program changes in line with the Head Coach: Paul Brown recommendations of the review. The first was Team Manager: David Campbell to advertise for and appoint key personnel. November 2005 as the new team manager. FFA Program Manager: Simon Roberts David’s skills and knowledge assisted in a Assistant Coach: Kai Lammert David Campbell, who has a long history smooth transition of the program from APC Physiotherapists: Ed Davidson and Mark Australian equestrian team with the CP team, was appointed in to FFA management. McDonald 22 SPORTING REPORTS AUSTRALIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 23 JUDO POWERLIFTING

Anthony has continued to compete in able-bodied competitions at state Powerlifting has had a very successful year internationally, with Australia and national level within Australia and in events for vision-impaired achieving its best results at World Championships since 1994 and also athletes internationally. producing great results at the European Championships.

The Judo PPP is not currently active. The Powerlifting PPP is managed by the APC. also involved in the planning and conduct of ATHLETES this very successful event. The Sport Advisory Committee’s (SAC) efforts PPP STATUS INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION The next 12 months see a busy competition during the year saw the inclusion of new Following an analysis of program results in Powerlifting has had a very successful year schedule for the national squad, with teams athletes in the PPP Development Squad and Athens and with limited numbers of athletes internationally, with Australia achieving its to attend the FESPIC Games in Kuala their improvement is such that four of the six competing in Australia, Judo was best results at World Championships since Lumpur, Malaysia, in November and the athletes to attend the FESPIC Games will be discontinued as a program under the PPP 1994 and also producing great results at the European Championships in Greece in from this group. Our focus for these Games is in 2005/06. European Championships. Darren Gardiner June 2007. on development, including the gaining of won gold and Steve Green bronze at the international experience. The inclusion of two An individual scholarship was offered to European Championships in Portugal in senior athletes in the team will provide a Anthony Clarke, who retained the services of TRAINING CAMPS November, while Darren claimed silver and mentoring role to assist with this process. Trevor Kschammer as his nominated coach. On the domestic scene, Queensland hosted Deahnne McIntyre bronze at the World two training camps for the national squad Championships in South Korea in May. Long time competitor Steve Green is retiring INTERNATIONAL during the year. These were held in from the sport but will continue his COMPETITION The 2006 Commonwealth Games in conjunction with the Queensland State involvement as an assistant coach Anthony has continued to compete in able- Melbourne included an open event for EAD Championships in September and the for the FESPIC Games. bodied competitions at state and national (elite athletes with a disability), which was Nationals in February. These training camps level within Australia and in events for vision- staged in front of a ‘packed house’ of 3,000 allowed elite and developing athletes to train STAFF impaired athletes internationally. Competition people, following the last day of the together in a supportive environment with The SAC has been involved in some highlights for Anthony for the year included: Weightlifting competition. The results were guidance and advice from the national succession planning during the year. As part based on the AH formula which allows coaching staff. Athletes were also given of this, Bill Nancarrow attended the • July 2005: Kodokan Nationals, Perth – 1st comparisons across bodyweight divisions. In education sessions on a variety of topics European and World Championships as Under 90kg, 3rd Under 100kg; a tough competition with 29 competitors, designed to enhance their sporting Assistant Coach and will take the Head • October 2005: SA State Titles – 1st Under Australia’s Darren Gardiner won the bronze performance, including nutrition, injury Coach role at the FESPIC Games. 90kg, 2nd Open Weight; medal after missing his third lift in an attempt prevention, anti-doping updates and • October 2005: Australian Masters – 1st at the silver. Darren’s best lift of 227.5 sports psychology. Head Coach: Ray Epstein Under 90kg under 50 years, 2nd Open kilograms equalled the biggest weight lifted Assistant Coaches: Martin Leach and Bill Weight; at the Games. Three Australian referees were Nancarrow • February 2006: ACT International Open – Manager: Paul Ninness 5th Under 90kg; • March 2006: SA Northern Zone – 1st Under 90kg; • April 2006: SA Southern Zone – 1st Under 90kg; • June 2006: Judo Federation of Australia Nationals – 7th Under 90kg; and • June 2006: IBSA World Championship, Brommat, France – 7th Under 90kg. The IBSA World Championship was one of three qualifying tournaments for the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games. Anthony’s seventh place has given him some points towards qualification for Beijing. Anthony also attended an international training camp following the World Championship. Athletes from many countries attended and the standard of teaching was high.

Anthony Clarke Darren Gardiner 24 SPORTING REPORTS AUSTRALIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 25 ROWING WHEELCHAIR RUGBY

The elite adaptive rowing program took a major step forward with On the court, there have been some promising results, including strong the announcement of the inclusion of Rowing at the Beijing performances by the team at both the Oceania Zonal Championships Paralympic Games. in South Africa in 2005 (2nd) and the Canada Cup in 2006 (4th).

The Rowing PPP is managed by Rowing ATHLETES FUTURE Australia (RA) under a mainstreaming With the assistance of APC funding, RA Australia’s adaptive rowers will compete at agreement with the APC. funded adaptive athletes’ participation at the World Championships in England in the April selection regatta. Invitations were August 2006. MAINSTREAMING issued to six athletes to trial in the coxed RA’s focus in planning for the Beijing The elite adaptive rowing program took a four (LTA4+) and one invitation to trial in the Paralympic Games will be to meet the major step forward with the announcement single scull (AM1X). Dominic Monypenny objectives set out in the adaptive rowing high of the inclusion of Rowing at the Beijing was selected to represent Australia in the performance plan. The recruitment of an Paralympic Games. Subsequently, Rowing AM1X and defend his World Championship adaptive rowing coordinator will be pivotal in Australia (RA) developed its adaptive rowing while an LTA4+ crew was selected and this process and is expected by the end of high performance plan, which was based in NSW. The first adaptive rowing September 2006. accepted by the APC. The plan details camp for the Australian rowing team will be initiatives to develop high performance held from 12–15 July 2006 in Canberra. With the exclusion of athletes with an adaptive rowing and the requirements for The camp will be fully funded by RA intellectual disability in Beijing, a significant athletes wishing to be considered for through the assistance of the APC funding talent search effort will be required. Further selection to compete as adaptive athletes in and represents another significant step development of a high performance culture the Australian rowing team. forward in the development of elite will be achieved through increased selection adaptive rowing. requirements, camps and support initiatives which have been made possible by RA’s partnership with the APC. Program Manager: Adam Horner

Ryley Batt

The Wheelchair Rugby PPP is managed by year Victoria came back to league enthusiasm and cohesion within the team Wheelchair Sports Australia (WSA) under competition as four teams (South Australia, has not been seen for a long time in a memorandum of understanding with Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria) Australian Wheelchair Rugby. the APC. went head to head over three rounds. The teams were very evenly matched and all had INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION OVERVIEW several national squad members, as well as On the court, there have been some Wheelchair Rugby in Australia is now in its some hungry young talent keen to make their promising results, including strong second year of central management by mark. Opportunities to expand the league in performances by the team at both the Wheelchair Sports Australia (WSA). WSA 2007 are currently being explored. Oceania Zonal Championships in South retains very close ties with the APC with Africa in 2005 (2nd) and the Canada Cup in regards to the PPP and the various state NATIONAL SQUAD 2006 (4th). The program is expected to yield wheelchair sports associations are still Australia’s national Wheelchair Rugby squad continued improvement and success as it responsible for the initial recruitment and has undergone a makeover in the past 12 builds towards the World Championships in development of new players. This has led to months. The appointment of a new coach, September 2006. Following this, the focus a more cohesive structure, with benefits to Evan Bennett, in August 2005, with Brad will be towards the 2007 Oceania Zonal the players and the sport. Dubberley in the assistant coaching role, and Championships in Sydney and ultimately the the introduction of new players to the squad, Beijing Paralympics. has rejuvenated the entire national squad TELSTRA NATIONAL Head Coach: Evan Bennett program. All players are in a tough battle to WHEELCHAIR RUGBY LEAGUE Assistant Coach: Brad Dubberley make selections for each competition and a Now in its fifth year, the National League has Program Manager: Kim Ellwood talented pool of fringe players not currently in become bigger and better with Telstra on Personal Carer: Angela Mansell the squad ensures that all players put in the LTA4 + Adaptive rowing team board as the naming rights sponsor. This Mechanic: Rob Doidge hard work to maintain their spots. The level of 26 SPORTING REPORTS AUSTRALIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 27 SAILING SHOOTING

The Sonar class team achieved an outstanding result of 4th, missing As of 1 July 2006, the high performance squad for shooters with a out on a medal by one point and also securing qualification for Beijing. disability will have access to the same competitions and facilities that are currently available to the able-bodied athletes.

The Sailing PPP is managed by Yachting The Shooting PPP is managed by Australian Libby Kosmala 3rd, R7 3 x 40 – Ashley Australia (YA) under a mainstreaming International Shooting Limited (AISL) under a Adams 3rd. Libby was also presented with a agreement with the APC. mainstreaming agreement with the APC. special trophy for the Best and Fairest competitor for the competition. COMPETITION INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION Events over the next eighteen months will be The Royal Perth Yacht Club hosted the Oceania Regional Championships hotly contested. The World Championships International Federation of Disabled Sailing AISL hosted the Oceania Regional Shooting are in Switzerland in July 2006, with 46 (IFDS) World Championships for the 2.4mR Championships in Brisbane, from 30 participating countries, including an and Sonar classes in January 2006. October to 5 November, 2005. The Australian team of seven shooters. The Asian The Australian sailors performed well against organisers approved this event as a Games are in March 2007 and the European the international competitors, with Aaron Hill combined competition, with events for able- Championships in July 2007. The ISCD has qualifying Australia for the 2008 Paralympic bodied shooters and shooters with a approved the Oceania Regional Games in the 2.4mR class. The Sonar class disability. The Para-Oceania Shooting Championships that will be conducted in team achieved an outstanding result of 4th, Championships had 47 entries from four Sydney in November 2007 as a Minimum missing out on a medal by one point and countries: Australia, China, New Zealand Qualifying event for the Paralympics Games also securing qualification for Beijing. The and Sweden. and this will be the last event before the quota places are closed. Sonar team will compete at the next major The competition also held a demonstration IFDS international competition in Rochester, shotgun event for shooters with a disability, INTEGRATION USA, in mid-2007. with New Zealand and Australian shooters entered. AISL has announced that all future Australia DEVELOPMENT Cup ranking competitions will host both able- European Championships Medal success at the 2008 and 2012 L to R: Colin Harrison, Jeff Milligan and Jamie Dunross bodied and disability events. This allows Paralympic Games will depend on the The only overseas international event for the shooters with a disability to attend and development of the Yachting Australia Sailing Yachting Australia’s planning emphasises the Australian Sailing Team and the sharing of team this year was the European compete in their own events at the same Team to ensure continued success at the full integration of its Olympic and Paralympic information and technologies across all Championships in Poland in July 2005. The time as able-bodied shooters. It is a great highest levels. programs, with a focus on building the components of the Team (Olympic, team consisted of Ashley Adams, Libby step forward in integrating shooting Paralympic and Youth). Kosmala, Jason Maroney, Stephen competitions, and has been widely accepted McCormack and Peter Shannon. The team by the shooters. Libby Kosmala Over the coming Australian summer the achieved the following medal results: R6 50 The pistol and rifle Nationals were separated Australian Sailing team will come together for m Prone – Ashley Adams 1st, R8 3 x 20 a number of training camps. in 2006, with the rifle shooters able to compete at the Target Rifle Australia National PARALYMPIC GAMES EVENTS Championships. Pistol Australia was not able to accommodate the Nationals and the pistol In 2005, the International Paralympic shooters have not had a National Committee announced an increase in the Championships yet in 2006, due to the small number of sailing events at the 2008 numbers of shooters, making it unviable to Paralympic Games from two to three. The conduct a separate competition. new event will be a double-handed keelboat, to join the single-handed (2.4mR) and triple- AISL has indicated that, as of 1 July 2006, handed (Sonar) events already on the the high performance squad for shooters Paralympic program. with a disability will be combined with the association’s able-bodied high performance The new class chosen by IFDS was the squad. The squad will have access to the Australian, Bethwaite designed UD-18, more same competitions and facilities that are commonly called the SKUD. The challenge currently available to the able-bodied athletes. is to get sailors and boats training in Australia This is a positive step for shooting and the ready for the IFDS Worlds in 2007, which will squad looks forward to working in be the first selection regatta for this class for conjunction with the many clubs and the 2008 Paralympic Games. associations within the structure. It will also Head Coach: Greg Omay assist the development of all shooters with a disability and in identifying the pathways for those who wish to achieve at a higher level. Head Coach: Miroslav Sipek Ashley Adams Program Manager: Michelle Fletcher 28 SPORTING REPORTS AUSTRALIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 29 SWIMMING TABLE TENNIS

The AIS program continues to be a success. It has played a major role 2005/06 was the first year of the Table Tennis PPP under a in developing the skill level of the best athletes and providing an mainstreaming partnership between Table Tennis Australia (TTA) and educational opportunity to coaches. the APC and it has proven a considerable success.

The Swimming PPP is managed by conducted by Wendy Ross. Wendy has Minneapolis in December 2005. The athletes The Table Tennis PPP is managed by Table as management expertise and total numbers Seven athletes (including six PPP squad Swimming Australia Limited (SAL) under a successfully assisted the state swimming returned with three gold medals, two silver Tennis Australia (TTA) under a mainstreaming of athletes with disabilities (AWD) within members) will compete at the FESPIC mainstreaming agreement with the APC. associations to set up development squads and one bronze. agreement with the APC. TTA increase. Games in Kuala Lumpur in November 2006. and strengthen athlete pathways and has The team will be accompanied by a coach INAS-FID World Championships In 2005/06, the PPP has been OVERVIEW also participated actively in APC programs, MAINSTREAMING and a manager. The Australian swim team, comprising complemented by the Australian Sports The continuing support provided by the APC including Talent Search. 2005/06 was the first year of the Table Patrick Donachie, Richard Eliason, David Commission’s Project CONNECT and the has enabled the SAL Paralympic Program to Tennis PPP under a mainstreaming DOMESTIC COMPETITION Lee, Damien Narbeshuber, Troy Puttergill APC’s Talent Search program. focus on developing Priority 2 (P2) DOMESTIC TOURS/CAMPS partnership between Table Tennis Australia The 2006 TTA AWD championships and Tamleh Wilson competed in the 4th swimmers domestically this year. This was A small team of seven swimmers competed (TTA) and the APC and it has proven a attracted 62 entrants – another new record! INAS-FID World Championships in Liberec, INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION done by running domestic camps and tours in the Tasmanian Age Championships in considerable success. Supported by It may be that this number will not increase Czech Republic. Australia finished 4th on All three PPP athletes selected for the to the Tasmanian Age Championships and March 2006, competing against able-bodied additional resources from the APC and TTA, further, as several states will run AWD closed the medal tally (four gold medals, ten silver Commonwealth Games (Joy Boyd, Jane the Northern Territory Age and Open swimmers. The swimmers and team staff the program is starting to take shape and will and open championships in 2006. The and two bronze) and Tamleh Wilson was Wallis and Catherine Morrow) recorded Championships. Opportunity was also given used this trip to gain valuable domestic soon show results. significance of this trend for championships named best female swimmer of the victories and only narrowly missed the finals. to a wider group of coaches to be the Head race experience. at a State level is perhaps the greatest World Championships. Coach for these camps and tours, thus Rebecca Julian, a Class 6 female athlete development in the sport, with the Another group of swimmers competed in the ATHLETES creating a process of education, professional Commonwealth Games who is ranked in the top five in the world, establishment of state-based competition Northern Territory Open and Age The first Table Tennis PPP squad was development and succession planning. qualified for the world titles in Switzerland in opportunities and pathways high on the Championships in March 2006. The athletes Eight EAD athletes competed at the established with a modest six athletes. At the Success in this area will be indicated by the September 2006. She is the first Australian agenda for 2006/07. completed this meet with strong results, Commonwealth Games in Melbourne in end of 2005/06, the program has grown to number of P2 swimmers who make the to compete at the World Championships for despite the monsoonal showers. March. Matthew Cowdrey was a standout nine, with the inclusion of development Manager TTA AWD program: Arthur Wilks World Championships team to Durban in performer on the Australian Swim Team, athletes. These numbers will increase further many years. December 2006. A successful swim camp was held at winning both the 50m and 100m freestyle Runaway Bay, Queensland in May 2006. The profile of the swimming program EAD events in world record times. Annabelle Swimming Australia bought together all continues to increase, aided by the Williams also performed strongly, claiming the P2 level athletes for an intensive week- success of elite athletes with a disability bronze in the 50m freestyle. long camp. (EAD) events held at the Melbourne 2006 German Swimming Championships Commonwealth Games. INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION Australian athletes won four gold, four silver The APC has supported efforts to clarify the US Paralympics Open Championships and four bronze medals in Berlin in June. athlete pathway for swimmers with a The highlights of this meet were world disability through development activities A small team of five athletes competed in the records to Peter Leek (S8 100m butterfly); US Paralympics Open Championships in Sam Bramham (S9 100m butterfly); Daniel Bell (SB9 50m breaststroke); Damien Narbeshuber (S14 50m backstroke); and Sarah Rose (S6 100m butterfly and SM6 400IM).

AIS PROGRAM The AIS program continues to be a success. It has played a major role in developing the skill level of the best athletes and providing an educational opportunity to coaches. It is hoped that this program will increase in the future and more opportunities will become available to our athletes and coaches.

SUMMARY The Paralympic Program is looking forward to the next 12 months as the program continues to strengthen in the lead-up to the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing. Head Coach: Brendan Keogh Sports Scientist: Brendan Burkett Program Coordinator: Melanie Jenkins Matt Cowdrey Joy Boyd 30 SPORTING REPORTS AUSTRALIAN PARALYMPIC COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 31 WHEELCHAIR TENNIS WINTER SPORT

In 2005/06, the elite wheelchair tennis program merged into Tennis Australia currently has three athletes ranked in the top ten in the world: Australia’s Player Development Department under the National High Toby Kane, Cameron Rahles-Rahbula and Shannon Dallas. Performance Academy, alongside the able-bodied program.

The Tennis PPP is managed by Tennis which was not a true reflection of the team’s model has left a permanent imprint on The Winter program is jointly managed Cameron Rahles-Rahbula and held this Australian winter. A talent Australia (TA) under a mainstreaming standing in world wheelchair tennis. thousands of Australians and all aspiring by the APC and Disabled WinterSport Shannon Dallas. identification camp at the beginning of July agreement with the APC. players. The healthy position wheelchair Australia (DWA) under a memorandum unearthed four new skiers with a disability, CHAMPION RETIRES tennis enjoys today, and indeed Paralympic of understanding. TRAINING CAMPS including one female, who show the potential sport in general, has much to do with David’s to win selection for the 2010 Games. A MAINSTREAMING Another significant change in the sport The Winter program has just completed a The Winter program ran a four month substantial contribution. number of elite and development camps The mainstreaming partnership between during the past 12 months was the very successful four year cycle, culminating training and racing camp prior to the have also been held. Tennis Australia (TA) and the APC has retirement of Paralympian David Hall. David’s Head Coach: Greg Crump in the Torino Paralympic Games. The Paralympic Games. Nine alpine skiing brought about strong ties with able-bodied outstanding career as a player and role program is now starting a new four year athletes and one cross country athlete events, showcasing wheelchair tennis at cycle, working towards the Vancouver travelled to North America and Europe to FUTURE tournaments throughout Australia. Winter Games in 2010. prepare for the Games. Further camps will be held over the remaining weeks of the 2006 Australian In 2005/06, the elite wheelchair tennis An arrangement between the USA national season and the program will take athletes program merged into Tennis Australia’s Player COMPETITION team cross country program and the APC overseas again this year for a two month Development Department under the National Over the 2005/06 competition season, allowed our cross country athlete, James training and competition camp. High Performance Academy, alongside the Australia’s alpine skiers achieved a total of Millar, to travel with the US team for all able-bodied program. The 18 wheelchair 51 top ten places in international races. international competitions. This proved Even with the retirement of Michael Milton athletes who are currently on scholarship Seventeen of these were top three places, beneficial for the program, both financially after the Torino Games, the Winter program with the Academy now enjoy the same including seven first places. and in performance. is looking very healthy for the 2010 and benefits as able-bodied players. 2014 Games. Australia currently has three athletes ranked With the first year of the new cycle well under DEVELOPMENT in the top ten in the world: Toby Kane, way, a number of training camps have been Head Coach: Steve Graham A significant step in the development of the program this year was the employment of Greg Crump as National High Performance Coach. In addition, wheelchair tennis coaches have been appointed to each state academy under the direction of the National High Performance Coach. TA will be working hard over the next 12 months to develop new talent in the quest for Paralympic success. An exciting development will be the integration of wheelchair tennis into the program of the 2007 Australian Open, thus ensuring strong publicity and a higher profile for the wheelchair game and inspiring the next generation of hopefuls to get involved.

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION In May, the 2006 World Team Cup was held in Brazil. This was a benchmark event for Australian wheelchair tennis players ahead of the 2008 Beijing Games. Australia was represented by a men’s team and a junior team. Both competed well, particularly the junior team of Michael Esler and Dylan Alcott, who finished runners-up to the talented Belgian team in the final. It was a promising sign, as the program looks for the next generation of stars. The men’s team of Anthony Bonaccurso and Ben Weekes contested the very competitive world group, losing on day one to eventual runners-up France. Unfortunately, by virtue of David Hall Toby Kane the draw the men finished in 9th position, 32 ACRONYMS

AA Archery Australia AA Athletics Australia APC Australian Paralympic Committee AIS Australian Institute of Sport ASC Australian Sports Commission ATFCA Australian Track and Field Coaches Association AWD Athlete with a Disability BA Basketball Australia CA Cycling Australia CAD Coaching Athletes with a Disability CP-ASRF Cerebral Palsy – Australian Sports and Recreation Federation DWA Disabled WinterSport Australia EAD Elite Athlete with a Disability FESPIC Far East and South Pacific International Committee FFA Football Federation of Australia HPU High Performance Unit INAS-FID International Sports Federation for Persons with an Intellectual Disability IPC International Paralympic Committee IBSA International Blind Sports Association IFDS International Federation of Disabled Sailing ITF International Tennis Federation NSWIS New South Wales Institute of Sport OPC Oceania Paralympic Committee (formerly SPPC) PB Personal Best PPP Paralympic Preparation Program QAS Queensland Academy of Sport RDAA Riding for the Disabled Association of Australia SASI South Australian Institute of Sport SB Season’s Best SPPC South Pacific Paralympic Committee TTA Table Tennis Australia TA Tennis Australia VIS Victorian Institute of Sport WSA Wheelchair Sports Australia YA Yachting Australia Ben Austin