Medals for Special Olympics athletes
20 February 2025
Twenty Victorian athletes who represented the state and nation at recent Special Olympics World Games in Berlin and Abu Dhabi have been presented with medals at Parliament House.
Queen’s Hall was packed with members of parliament and guests for the significant occasion.
'Today we recognise the dedication and hard work of our Special Olympics Victoria athletes, who trained tirelessly to reach the top of their game,' Special Olympics Australia State Manager Victoria and Tasmania James Hammond said.
Legislative Council President Shaun Leane acknowledged the fantastic efforts of Team Victoria.
'We’re in a privileged position where we meet great organisations that do fantastic things and Special Olympics Australia and Special Olympics Victoria definitely fall into that category,' he said.
“ 'We’re all very parochial and we all love seeing Victoria do very well.' ”
Shaun Leane, Legislative Council President
Four-time Olympian and Olympic Bronze Medallist at Rio, Anabelle Smith, and Director and CEO of JAGGAD, which supplied the team uniforms, Steve Green presented the Australian Sports Medal to athletes from a range of sports including tennis, athletics, basketball, gymnastics, swimming, tenpin bowling and bocce.
Created in the year 2000, the Australian Sports Medal is awarded to individuals who have made a significant contribution to sports through achievements as an athlete, coach, administrator, volunteer or official.
The medal is made of brass and features the Southern Cross on the front, while the back of the medal features the words “Australian Sports Medal” along with the recipient’s name engraved.
Melbourne has been chosen to host the 2026 Special Olympics Australia National Games.
