An inclusive sporting initiative launching on the Sunshine Coast is set to expand across Queensland after securing state government support.
The inaugural All-Abilities Games will be held at the Sunshine Coast Recreation Precinct at Currimundi on October 31, bringing together people with and without disabilities for a free day of sport.
The event was developed by local Danielle Lenord, founder and director of The Lavender Sky Foundation, following the growth of the organisation’s Connect Rugby League program.
That program began with five participants in 2022 and has expanded to more than 40 players across the Kawana Dolphins, Caloundra Sharks, Noosa Pirates and Caboolture Snakes.
Ms Lenord began exploring how the same approach could extend beyond rugby league to give people more choice in the sports they played.
“All-abilities doesn’t mean one sport has to fit everyone,” she said.
“It means giving people the opportunity to find a sport they enjoy and then looking at how we can adapt the sport or the environment to support their participation.”
The Games will be open to people with and without disabilities, including neurodivergent people, those living with chronic health conditions and people who require additional support to take part.
Activities will include wheelchair basketball and rugby, powerchair soccer, inclusive netball, modified rugby league, skateboarding and adaptive sporting demonstrations.
Participating organisations will adapt activities to individual needs.
Australian Steelers wheelchair rugby captain and Paralympian Chris Bond is the event ambassador.
Ms Lenord said Mr Bond’s involvement would also support the foundation’s aim of developing stronger sporting pathways.
“Having someone of Chris’ experience and standing supporting the Games means a great deal, particularly as we work towards creating stronger pathways for people who want to develop their sporting skills and aspirations,” she said.
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Marathon swimming champion Susie Maroney will deliver swimming and water safety workshops, while former NRL player and Noosa product Moses Mbye will lead inclusive rugby league skills workshops. Sunshine Coast identity Ashley Robinson will be the master of ceremonies.
The official opening will be officiated by Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli and other community representatives.
Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander said the All-Abilities Games championed the belief that sport should be within reach of every Queenslander.
“We want Queensland to be the home of Australian sport and to see as many Queenslanders as possible getting involved in sport,” he said.
“The wonderful work being carried out by The Lavender Sky Foundation through the All-Abilities Games is playing an important role in helping more members of our community take part in sport.”
“I’m particularly pleased the event is being held at the Sunshine Coast Recreation Precinct, putting to use the fantastic facilities on offer.
Ms Lenord said the foundation wanted the Games to create opportunities that extend beyond the event by connecting participants with suitable clubs and programs.
“Sport is about so much more than physical activity,” she said.
“It is about friendships, confidence, wellbeing, community connection and having somewhere you belong.”
The foundation has secured state government sponsorship to support five events, with expansions planned for Townsville, Toowoomba, Moreton Bay and the Gold Coast in 2027.
Ms Lenord hoped the Sunshine Coast event can become an annual fixture attracting participants from across Queensland and, eventually, interstate.
“We have such an incredible region, with wonderful sporting facilities, clubs, businesses and community organisations,” she said.
“This is about building something that lasts, something that continues to grow and creates opportunities for people who may never have imagined they could be part of a sporting event like this.”
The Games will run from 9.30am to 2pm. Admission and general sporting activities are free, although limited places in selected workshops may incur a $10 booking fee. Registration is required for all attendees.
