ABILYMPICS

THE FRIENDS OF ABILYMPICS

People who help us help others

Abilympics WA couldn't exist without the generosity of time and money given to us by people who care. People who are keen to see others enabled to contribute to society, despite the barriers that may be in their way.

This page showcases the efforts made by individuals and groups that have allowed Abilympics WA to continue on year after year.

Patron of Abilympics Australia

Governor General Quentin Bryce AC

The office of Governor-General has had an important constitutional, ceremonial and community role in the life of our nation.

Abilympics Australia's esteemed patron provides a strong symbol of support that readily demonstrates the depth of community appreciation for our ventures.

John Fisher AM, Cit WA

The Original Friend of Abilympics

The late John Fisher AM (28.4.1930 to 01.08.2006) was the brains and energy behind Abilympics in Australia. John had been approached by the late Sir George Bedbrook who (following meetings with Sir Harry Fang from Hong Kong) had been advised about the Abilympics movement with its beginnings in Japan.

John Fisher not only established Abilympics in Western Australia and later Australia but became a Committee Member of the International Abilympics Federation, a position he held until his death. John attended the 1st International Abilympics in Tokyo in 1981 as a competitor and was instrumental in encouraging people to be competitors for all later events.

John was the driving force behind Perth's successful bid to host the 4th International Abilympics in 1995. The event was administered by Events Corp and held at Burswood Resort with 34 countries competing. Korea won eighteen medals at this event with Australia coming second with a total of 17 medals.

Until his death John held positions on many organisations championing the needs and rights of people with disabilities.

The Abilympics WA Committee

The following people have dedicated their time to keeping Abilympics WA on track.

The Board of Abilympics WA

Mrs Venita Merle Bodle OAM

Merle has worked tirelessly as a volunteer for Abilympics since 1993, becoming the President of Abilympics West Australia Inc in 1997 and Vice President of Abilympics Australia Association Inc in 1995, positions she has held continuously to the present time. Merle is heavily involved in every aspect of Abilypics and is held in high esteem by members, volunteers and the committee alike and her input is greatly respected. Merle was the honorary foundation Secretary for the Parkinson’s Association, and in 2002 was awarded an OAM for services to the health and welfare of the community of Perth, particularly people with disabilities. Merle attends to all the office requirements and without her continued voluntary contribution we would need to secure paid staff.

Mrs Nadine Mather-Brown

Nadine commenced her involvement with Abilympics in 1994 as Office Manager in the leadup to the 4th International Abilympics Event held in Perth in 1995. In 1996 Nadine was elected Secretary to the Board of Abilympics Australia Inc, a position she held until being elected President in 2006. The same year Nadine was elected to the Executive of the International Abilympics Federation (based in Japan). With a background in nursing, particularly people with disabilities, Nadine attended the 6th International Abilympics in New Delhi as the team nurse and attended the 7th International Abilympics in Japan as team leader attending the Executive Meetings of the International Abilympics Federation. Nadine would be happy to discuss any aspect of Abilympics and messages can be left by post or email.

Abilympics Friends

Here are links to other Abilympics Organizations around the world

Further Links