Brisbane lass Nicole Groth has already tasted double gold as a special athlete, and now she needs our help to achieve her dream of representing Australia at the Special Olympics in Athens next year.
Grace Grace, MP State member for Brisbane Central, is calling on government and local businesses to support Nicole achieve her dream.
“Nicole showed what she is capable of by winning two gold and two silver medals in the athletic events at the national games in April,” Ms Grace said.
Nicole was among the dozens of athletes from south-east Queensland who travelled to Adelaide for the Special Olympics IX National Games in April this year. The National Games featured 850 athletes from all states and territories vying for gold in 12 sports.
“We are very proud that Nicole was among the Queenslanders selected to represent Australia in Athens next year,” Ms Grace said.
“To guarantee her position at the games, Nicole needs to raise $7000 and I am calling on individuals and businesses in our community to get behind Nicole and the other athletes and make a donation and help make their Athen’s dream a reality.”
Ms Grace has also added her voice to the other members of Parliament who have called on Sport Minister Phil Reeves to consider State Government funding to help all Queensland athletes selected to represent Australia at next year’s Special Olympics Summer Games.
“Queenslanders selected to compete at the Olympics, Paralympics or Commonwealth Games currently receive a grant from the Bligh Government, but those selected for the Special Olympics do not,” Ms Grace said. The minister had undertaken to look urgently into the funding arrangements.
“To make a donation, you can go to my website at www.gracegracemp.com and follow the “Special Olympics” link, email me at brisbane.central@parliament.qld.gov.au or by post at unit 2, Hill House, 541 Boundary Street, Spring Hill, Q, 4000. Cheques should be made out to “Special Olympics Australia” and donations of $2 or over are tax deductible.
“It is important that we encourage our young athletes to excel and support them when they do,” Ms Grace said.
“The Bligh Government is committed to making Queenslanders Australia’s healthiest people by 2020 and Nicole is setting a great example for other young people with a disability. “Nicole’s success demonstrates that there are no barriers when it comes to sport and we are very lucky to have such a talented sportswomen in our midst.”
Grace Grace helps Nicole Groth show off her golden haul.
