Programs
In association with its member bodies and allied organisations, Disabled WinterSport Australia
conducts regular introductory and development programs at resorts in Victoria and NSW. These programs are
designed to introduce individuals and groups with a disability to the mountain environment and the joys of skiing.
For further information on the programs, download the 2008 DWA Camps form here.
To register for one of these camps, download the following forms:
Alpine
Alpine or downhill skiing is the most adaptable sport for people of all abilities and strengths. It is
an activity that friends and family can all enjoy together. Over the years, development and improvement of
adaptive ski equipment together with qualified instruction have enhanced and broadened the range of disabilities
catered for. Armed with these skills the skier with a disability is able to enjoy
both independence and freedom on the slopes.
Nordic
Nordic (Cross Country) skiing originated in Scandinavia for people with visual impairments.
Since then, much advancement in the sport has seen the introduction of the Nordic sit ski. The sit ski
requires much arm strength to propel the ski along while standing skiers use poles and long narrow skis
in which boots are attached at the toe only, to glide along the snowy trails.
Nordic skiing remains one of the most vigorous cardiovascular winter sports and
whilst a great challenge it offers wonderful opportunities to enjoy our Snowy Mountains in their
pristine environment.
Ice Sports
Curling for people with disabilities will launch its initial development
programs in Bendigo, Victoria. Now a recognised Winter Paralympic Sport, it is currently played in
sixteen countries. The game is similar, but only just, to lawn bowls and requires highly-tuned skills
and strategic thinking. Given strong development, Australia plans to
field a team at the 2010 Winter Paralympic Games in Vancouver, Canada.
Ice Hockey for people with disabilities (Sledge Ice Hockey) is
currently conducted at Mount Thebarton in Adelaide Ice Arena in social competition on Tuesdays from
6.45pm to 8pm (daylight saving). Expansion of this program to other major centres
is subject to interest and ice availability.
Short Track Speed Skating is also in its infant stages. Again,
subject to interest and ice time, we expect positive growth in this sport
Summer
DWA, in conjunction with the Jindabyne Sport and Recreation Centre, is promoting summer
activities for people with disabilities. Activities include all water based sports on Lake Jindabyne
including the finest trout fishing, canoeing, sailing and water skiing while the resort of Thredbo Alpine Village offers chairlift rides to experience the beautiful mountain hinterland with its wild-flowers and alpine lakes. In the village itself activities include the mountain bob sled rides (ideally suited to people with disabilities), or just wandering around and enjoying the unique shopping and restaurants located within the Village centre. |
