MEDIA STATEMENTS: Queensland’s Para-sport pathway powers road to 2032  

Queensland’s Para-sport pathway powers road to 2032

• 20 athletes inducted into the Queensland Academy of Sport’s newly established Para Unit to fast-track talent ahead of the 2032 Games.
• Inaugural cohort includes athletes discovered through YouFor2032 and existing QAS programs.
• Funded by Queensland Government, Australian Government and Paralympics Australia. 

The Crisafulli Government has welcomed the first cohort of Queensland’s next generation of Paralympic talent the Queensland Academy of Sport’s (QAS) newly established Para Unit. 

The first 20 athletes in the inaugural cohort include aspiring Para-track cyclist Kai Sakakibara and current Paralympians Hani Watson. 

The move to the Para Unit places the athletes into the State’s first dedicated Para-sports pathway program providing tailored support for aspiring Para-athletes.  

The 85 elite Para-athletes already supported by QAS remain in their current high-performance programs. 

Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander said the induction of the first athlete cohort marked a significant milestone in Queensland’s Para-sport journey. 

“The QAS Para Unit is the first of its kind in Queensland ensuring more athletes with disabilities can chase their dreams on the road to LA 2028 and the 2032 Games,” Minister Mander said. 

“We want to give every Queenslander who has the talent, drive and determination to represent Australia at the Paralympics the best possible chance of success. 

“We want to double the pipeline of future Queensland Paralympians and make 2032 our most successful Games yet.” 

Paralympics Australia Chief Executive Cameron Murray said this was a major milestone for Queensland sport and Para-sport nationwide.

"These exciting athletes are what it's all about. They are pioneer beneficiaries of a strengthening pipeline that gives them the opportunity to realise their potential and chase their goals," Mr Murray said.

"It would be wonderful to see some of them competing at the Paralympic Games next year in Milano Cortina, at LA 2028 and beyond."

Australian Sports Commission (ASC) Executive General Manager of AIS Matti Clements said Australian sport was committed to ensuring the nation’s Para-athletes had the resources they need. 

“All of Australian sport is united in ensuring our Para-athletes have the resources they need to reach their full potential not only on the road to Brisbane 2032 but for generations to come,” Ms Clements said. 

“In just six months, the Para Uplift has seen five Para Units launched across the country with another three in the works, and more athletes than ever before receive the support they need to win well and inspire Australians. 

“On behalf of the ASC, I would like to congratulate QAS General Manager Troy Ayres, Blake and the wider QAS team for taking a leading role in driving the Para Uplift and championing our athletes.”  

Para Unit Lead and two-time Paralympic gold medallist Blake Cochrane said the QAS was on a mission to grow the pipeline of Paralympic talent and ensure no potential went unnoticed. 

“This first group of athletes embodies the heart and future of Para-sport in Queensland, a mix of proven champions and fresh talent ready to push boundaries,” Mr Cochrane said.