Competition

Australia has had representation in every Winter Paralympic Games since its inception in 1976. Domestic Competition

Disabled WinterSport Australia, in association with the Australian Paralympic Committee and Special Olympics Australia, conduct several domestic talent identification and competition programs highlighted annually.

Skiers/riders with a disability whose standards are such as to negotiate all courses competently and in safety are welcome to compete.

In addition, talent development programs are conducted under the direction of the sports Head Coach who will advise development pathways for each individual athlete dependent upon skiing standard and nature of disability.

International

Australia has an enviable record internationally at winter World Championships and Paralympic Games.

Australian Winter Paralympian Michael Milton has led the way, being the first Australian to win gold at the Winter Paralympic Games held in Albertville, France in 1992. He has since gone on to rightly claiming to be one of the world's greatest-ever skiers with his four gold medals in Salt Lake City in the 2002. Visit Michael's website at: www.michaelmilton.com

All of these Australian achievements have come about through dedication, self discipline and leadership and through highly qualified coaching and support personnel.

In 2010 Jess Gallagher become Australia's frist female medal winning winter paralympian winning Bronze in Slalom at the Vancouver Games.

 The Sports Sytem and Athlete Development

As the National Sporting Organisation for adaptive wintersport, DWA oversees the entire sports system from grassroots participation through to elite.

For athletes eligible for Paralympic competition DWA develop, in partnership, a pathway through to elite international competition with the Australian Paralympic Committee. For athletes with an Intellectual Disability DWA work in Partnership with Special Olympics Australia providing a pathway through to international competition.

Also DWA works with the Australian Defence Force, University Games system and interschools providing athletic pathway opportunities for adaptive athletes.

If you are interested in Athletic Development please contact:

National Program Manager: Sven Erikson
Mobile: 0406 367 899
Email: sven@disabledwintersport.com.au