Unveiling of Australian Paralympic Archery Team, Admiralty House

I acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which we meet, the Cammeraygal People of the Eora Nation, and pay my respects to their elders, past and present, emerging leaders and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders gathered here today.

Good morning, all, and welcome to Admiralty House.

Linda and I are delighted to have you here on what is a significant day in the lives of some fine young Australians.

To our Paralympic archers — congratulations on making the Australian Paralympic Team. It is an outstanding achievement.

You have worked extremely hard to reach this point and should be very proud. So, enjoy this moment.

But do so in the knowledge that, in less than 10 weeks’ time, competition will begin in Paris. There is still much more work to be done.

Today’s event continues Linda’s and my long association with the Paralympic movement. In fact, one of the best parts of being Governor-General is that we get to shine a light on so many wonderful people and organisations.

I include all involved in the Australian Paralympic movement in that group.

No matter the field of endeavour — and today it is sport — rarely has a day gone by in the last 10 years in Vice Regal roles where Linda and I haven’t seen firsthand what can be achieved through hard work and support.

We see it here again today.

Not only in our athletes, but also in the contributions of those behind the scenes: Paralympics Australia and Archery Australia; the donors, supporters and partners; Alumni; the coaches, medical and support staff, and families.

I particularly want to acknowledge the support provided to the athletes by families. As we all know, our Paralympic archers could not do what they do without the love and support of family. They, too, share in the achievements being celebrated today.

In a little over two months the Paralympics will begin.

I’m informed that Para Archery has been part of the Paralympic sport program since the inaugural Games in Rome in 1960.

The Esplanade des Invalides, in the heart of Paris, will be one of the most spectacular backdrops for what will surely be a fierce competition.

The sport requires precision, control, focus and repetition. That takes great commitment, and hours and hours of training.

So, to the athletes — give it your best, as we know you will, and do us proud.

Again, it is great to have you here and spend time with you.

On behalf of all Australians, we wish the athletes well in Paris. Their performances will help inspire the next generation of athletes, particularly those here at home who aspire to be in the team for Brisbane 2032.

Linda and I cannot wait for Paris 2024 to begin and to see our Paralympic archers shine.

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